The Story Of Lono
In the time when the islands of Hawaii were young and vibrant, the people lived in harmony with the land and sea, guided by their beliefs in the gods who shaped their world. Among these deities was Lono, a figure of great significance and influence.
Lono was known as the god of fertility, agriculture, and rain. Each year, his arrival in Hawaii marked the beginning of the makahiki season—a sacred time of peace and plenty. As the days grew shorter and the nights cooler, whispers among the people spoke of Lono's imminent return from Kahiki, the distant ancestral homeland beyond the horizon.
Legend had it that Lono arrived by canoe, accompanied by his followers and heralded by signs of abundant rain and fertile fields. His fair complexion and long hair adorned with white feathers made him a distinctive figure among the gods. Upon his arrival, the people celebrated with feasts, music, and dance, offering prayers and tribute to honor his benevolent presence.
During makahiki, strict taboos were observed. Wars were ceased, work was set aside, and the land was allowed to rest. Instead, the people engaged in joyful festivities and competitive games to entertain their divine visitor. Torch-lit processions snaked through the villages, illuminating the darkness with the warm glow of kukui nut oil, symbolizing Lono's guiding light and protection.
The kukui nut, with its oil that burned bright and clear, held a special significance during these ceremonies. It fueled the torches that lit the way for the processions and adorned the sacred altars where offerings were made to Lono. The nuts themselves were used in crafting lei and ornaments, symbolizing the interconnectedness of nature and culture in the Hawaiian worldview.
The offerings made during makahiki were not just rituals; they were heartfelt expressions of gratitude for the bountiful harvests and blessings bestowed upon the islands. Through these ceremonies, Lono ensured the renewal of fertility for the coming year, promising prosperity and abundance to his people.
As the season drew to a close, signs of Lono's impending departure became apparent. The migratory birds that had come with him began their journey back to Kahiki, and certain fish disappeared from the shores. These natural phenomena signaled Lono's return to his homeland until the next makahiki season beckoned his benevolent presence once more.
Thus, the story of Lono intertwined with the cycles of nature and the spiritual life of the Hawaiian people, teaching them the importance of harmony, gratitude, and renewal in their relationship with the land and its resources. The kukui nut, with its practical and symbolic significance, remains a lasting reminder of these ancient traditions and the enduring legacy of Lono in Hawaii.
