Pele

1. nvs., Lava flow, volcano, eruption; volcanic (named for the volcano goddess, Pele).2. A volcano; he ahi ai honua, a fire consuming the earth; I neia wa, ua pio ka nui o na pele; i ka wa kahiko, he pele no ma Maui, at the present time the greater number of volcanoes are extinct; in ancient times there was a volcano also on Maui.

Associations: Pele, revered as the powerful goddess of fire, lightning, and volcanoes in Hawaiian indigenous religion, holds a central place in Hawaiian mythology. Known as Madame Pele, Tutu Pele, or Ka wahine ʻai honua (the earth-eating woman), she is both feared and respected for her immense creative and destructive power. Legend has it that Pele is the creator of the Hawaiian Islands, shaping the landscape through volcanic eruptions.

Origins and Legends: According to myth, Pele was born in Tahiti but faced banishment due to her fiery temper and indiscretions. She journeyed to the Hawaiian Islands, where she engaged in a fierce battle with her sister, resulting in her transformation into a god. Pele then made her home on Mauna Kea, where she continues to reside as the guardian of the volcanoes.

Symbolism: Pele embodies various symbolic meanings:

• Beauty: Reflecting beauty, both physically and in the movements of the hula dance, symbolizing the captivating allure of volcanic landscapes.

• Fertility: Associated with the nurturing and abundant qualities of nature, fostering growth and renewal through volcanic activity.

• Arts: Patroness of hula and artistic expression, inspiring creativity and cultural enrichment through her volcanic creations.

Kinolau (Forms): Pele's kinolau, or physical manifestations, include:

• ʻŌhiʻa Lehua: Representing volcanic activity and the fiery eruptions that shape the land.

• Lehua Blossoms: Associated with volcanic eruptions, symbolizing Pele's fiery nature and transformative power.

• Lava: Symbolizing the intense heat and creative force of Pele, shaping the Hawaiian landscape through volcanic activity.

Pule (Prayer): "Pele, fiery goddess of volcanoes, shaper of land and molten passion. Guard our homes and sacred places, as we honor your creative force. E ala mai, Pele!"

In reverence to Pele, Hawaiians offer prayers seeking her protection and blessings, acknowledging her as the divine force that both creates and renews the land through volcanic activity. Through rituals and offerings, they honor Pele's fiery nature and seek her guidance in navigating the powerful forces of nature.

Pele and the Hibiscus in Hawaiian Mythology

Pele: The Volcano Goddess

Pele, one of the most revered deities in Hawaiian mythology, is the goddess of fire, lightning, wind, and volcanoes. She is known for her passionate, volatile nature and is believed to reside in the Halemaʻumaʻu crater of Kīlauea on the Big Island of Hawai'i. Pele's influence is evident in the volcanic activity that shapes the Hawaiian landscape, and she is often invoked in tales of creation and destruction.

Hibiscus (Kokiʻo ʻUla): A Symbol of Pele

The red hibiscus, known as kokiʻo ʻula in Hawaiian, is one of Pele's kinolau—physical manifestations or forms that deities can take. The red color of the hibiscus is symbolic of Pele's fiery spirit and volcanic activity. It represents her beauty, strength, and the passionate energy she embodies.

In Hawaiian culture, the hibiscus is not only associated with Pele but also holds broader significance as a symbol of delicate beauty and the fleeting nature of life, as hibiscus flowers often bloom for just a short time.

Cultural Significance

The connection between Pele and the hibiscus highlights the deep relationship between the natural world and the divine in Hawaiian spirituality. This relationship underscores a reverence for nature and the belief that the gods manifest in various natural forms, imbuing the environment with sacred meaning.

References

1. "Hawaiian Mythology" by Martha Warren Beckwith

   • This comprehensive book delves into various aspects of Hawaiian mythology, including the stories and significance of deities like Pele.

2. "Pele: Goddess of Hawaii's Volcanoes" by Herb Kawainui Kane

   • A detailed exploration of Pele's mythology, her significance in Hawaiian culture, and her various kinolau.

3. "Ka Po'e Mo'o Akua" by Marie Alohalani Brown

   • This book provides insight into Hawaiian spirituality and the concept of mana, which can be related to the understanding of deities like Pele and their manifestations.

4. Hawaiian Legends and Folklore

   • Various collections of Hawaiian legends and folklore also contain numerous stories about Pele and her manifestations, including the hibiscus.

Online Resources

• Hawaiian Encyclopedia

  • An online resource with detailed entries on Hawaiian deities, mythology, and cultural practices.

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Website

  • Provides educational material on Pele, her significance, and the natural phenomena associated with her.