I'o
Io, also known as Io Keawe or IAO, is revered as the unmanifest infinite source of creation in Hawaiian cosmology. Before the dawn of time, Io existed, emanating Mana, the divine life force that permeates all existence. Mana is omnipresent, infusing every living entity with the power to thrive and exist. From the depths of the Po, the primordial darkness, Io breathed forth Mana, initiating the process of creation. According to Leinani Melville, Io uttered the sacred word "Ola" into the void, setting in motion the genesis of the universe, symbolized by the emergence of the Kaukahi, the flaming cross of light. Io predates the emergence of other major Hawaiian gods, such as Ku, Lono, Kane, and Kanaloa. Despite this primacy, the Hawaiian people gradually transitioned their religious focus towards the Aumakua system and later towards the four main gods, facilitated by the establishment of systems like Pa'ao.
Kinolau:
Io transcends the concept of kinolau, existing as the supreme deity beyond specific physical manifestations. Unlike other gods in Hawaiian mythology, Io is not associated with a particular form in nature. Instead, Io is revered as the creator of all life and the ultimate source of divine power, permeating the cosmos with its boundless essence.
Other Forms:
Depictions of Io vary, often portraying Io as a radiant bird of light or as an abstract, formless energy. However, these representations merely scratch the surface of Io's true nature, which transcends physical forms and embodies profound spiritual significance.
Pule for Io
O Io, supreme creator,
Source of all life and light,
Guide us with your wisdom,
Illuminate our paths.
E ala mai, Io!
- ʻIo is a pivotal concept in Hawaiian spirituality, symbolizing the Supreme Being or the divine source.
- The term "akua" (god) shares cognates with similar concepts in other Pacific languages, underscoring the interconnectedness of divine beings across diverse cultures.
- The endemic Hawaiian hawk, known as ʻio, serves as a representation of Io in the natural world, further emphasizing the reverence accorded to Io within Hawaiian culture.