03-09-2007, 09:16 PM
I really do like learning stuff from this forum. Wondering if we could use this thread to get info on Hawaiian traditions. I know someone ask on another thread about showing your respects when someone loses a loved one. I think that question got lost and never answered. I am curious, how would you do that? What is the history behind it? What about Hawaiian weddings? In pre-contact times were there commitment ceremonies? Are there traditions associated with it? What is the symbolism behind having this huge blow out party for a baby's 1st birthday? Are there rituals assoiciated with birth? Naming a baby? You get the idea. I think it would be interesting to explain why certain events have certain traditions or rituals associated with them. I'd like to know why you shouldn't cross the mountains with a pig. Stuff like that. I think learning meanings behind traditions, even if they seem a bit silly to some, helps you understand each other better. I'd like to know about pre-contact traditions as well as current day melting pot adaptaions. I know some traditions shouldn't be participated in by those not of Hawaiian blood (be sure to point out which ones) but I'd still like to learn about them.
So what is the answer to the death in the family question?
Here in the South it is a badge of honor to have more than 150 people in attendance at your funeral. The visiting book it a family memento. Your funeral is almost as special as your wedding day. No joke. My grandmother beamed at the long lines of people waiting to pass my grandfather's coffin. When we got home that night the first thing she ask was if everyone noticed how many people were there. Mourning goes on up to the funeral, we like about 2-3 days for visitation. everyone you have every known, from the grocery clerk to people you haven't seen in over 50 years show up. YOu even go if you knew a family member of the deceased to show support. Some funerals end up being a small towns biggest social event of the year.
So what are the Hawaiian traditions? Do you send flowers? Is it wrong to go to the funeral if you were not close? I have read about some of the pre-contact rituals with burials but can someone elaborate? What is a modern Hawaiian funeral like?
Atlanta/Pahoa
So what is the answer to the death in the family question?
Here in the South it is a badge of honor to have more than 150 people in attendance at your funeral. The visiting book it a family memento. Your funeral is almost as special as your wedding day. No joke. My grandmother beamed at the long lines of people waiting to pass my grandfather's coffin. When we got home that night the first thing she ask was if everyone noticed how many people were there. Mourning goes on up to the funeral, we like about 2-3 days for visitation. everyone you have every known, from the grocery clerk to people you haven't seen in over 50 years show up. YOu even go if you knew a family member of the deceased to show support. Some funerals end up being a small towns biggest social event of the year.
So what are the Hawaiian traditions? Do you send flowers? Is it wrong to go to the funeral if you were not close? I have read about some of the pre-contact rituals with burials but can someone elaborate? What is a modern Hawaiian funeral like?
Atlanta/Pahoa
Atlanta/Pahoa