Kū

1. vs. To stand, stop, halt, anchor, moor; to rise, as dust; to hit, strike, jab; to park, as a car; to alight, as a bird or plane on the ground; to land, as a plane or ship; to stay, remain, exist; to reach, extend, arrive; upright, perpendicular, steep, erect, standing, parked.

Associations: Kū, created by Na' wahine and Kane, is revered as the god of war, prosperity, and strength in Hawaiian mythology. He is also closely linked to agriculture, embodying the power and fertility of the land. Kū is associated with rituals performed for protection and victory in battle, as well as prayers for abundant catches for fishermen. Despite his historical association with war and politics, Kū's complex nature extends beyond mere militarism, encompassing broader concepts of strength, resilience, and prosperity.

Offerings: Offerings dedicated to Kū are often made at Heiau, sacred temples where rituals are performed to invoke his protection and blessings. Prayers are offered for the guidance of warriors, the prosperity of commerce, and the abundance of harvests, seeking Kū's favor and benevolence.

Pule (Prayer): "O Kū, fierce protector and provider, we seek your strength. Guide our warriors, bless our commerce, and ensure bountiful harvests. E hoʻomaikaʻi iā mākou!" (Translation: "Bless us!")

Kinolau (Forms): Kū's kinolau, or physical manifestations, reflect his diverse attributes and associations, including:

• Sharks: Symbolizing aggression and strength, emblematic of Kū's warrior nature.

• Hawks: Representing fierceness and prowess in battle, embodying Kū's martial prowess.

• ʻŌhiʻa Lehua: The native tree sacred to Kū, symbolizing strength, resilience, and vitality.

• Koa: Another sacred tree associated with Kū, representing his power and warrior spirit.

Other Forms: In addition to his kinolau, Kū is believed to embody various plants and natural elements in the Hawaiian landscape, including:

• ʻIeʻIe (Freycinetia arborea): A vine symbolizing Kū's vitality and strength.

• ʻUlu (Breadfruit): Representing abundance and fertility, shared with other deities like Kāne.

• Niu (Coconut Tree Trunk): Symbolizing strength and resilience, indicative of Kū's martial prowess and protective nature.

• Noni (Morinda citrifolia) Fruit: Representing Kū's connection to the healing properties of nature and his role as a protector and provider.

In reverence to Kū, Hawaiians honor his multifaceted nature, seeking his guidance and protection in times of conflict and adversity, while also acknowledging his role in fostering prosperity and abundance in daily life. Through rituals, prayers, and offerings, they pay homage to Kū's enduring legacy as a guardian of the land and its people.