Ki'i Blessing Opens Makahiki Season at Kāneiolouma Heiau
Dedicated gathering of Kanaka Maoli offer blessing to Ki'i statues and welcome them home to Kāneioluma Heiau.
Ten years ago we had the original blessing to welcome these four Ki'i statues to the Kāneiolouma Heiau. Now, at the beginning of this year's Makahiki season, we open their eyes and welcome them home once again.
On Wednesday, October 30, the four 16-foot Ki'i statues on the corner of Poipu and Hoowili Road had their blindfolds removed with a ceremony marking their return and the beginning of the Makahiki season. Makahiki defines the beginning of the Hawaiian moon calendar year. It is a time of celebration, harvest, peace, and new beginnings.
The statues, representative of the Hawaiian gods, were originally dedicated on July 21, 2013. They were removed for much needed restoration over a year ago, and have finally returned home. The ceremony this week included chanting of the original mele oli as composed by renowned Hawaiian language professor Keao NeSmith.
The four Ki‘i represent:
Polohiwaakāne: facing the north-east quadrant (June 21 sunrise),
Lonohiwa: facing the north-west quadrant (June 21 sunset)
Kūkuluokahiki: facing the south-east quadrant (December 21 sunrise).
Polohiwaakanaloa: faces the south-west quadrant (December 21 sunset)
