Hawaiian Oral Tradition

Hawaiian oral tradition is a rich cultural practice where stories, history, mythology, and knowledge are passed down verbally from generation to generation. These traditions include chants, songs, proverbs, and storytelling that preserve Hawaiian values, ancestry, and the environment. Since ancient Hawaiians did not have a written language, oral transmission was essential for maintaining cultural identity and understanding of their world. This living tradition allows elders and community leaders to teach important lessons, history, and spiritual beliefs, keeping Hawaiian culture vibrant and connected through spoken word.