The Kumulipo

The Kumulipo is a traditional Hawaiian chant that serves as a creation story and cosmological history of the Hawaiian people. It is composed of over 2,000 lines and structured in 16 nested sections called “wā,” each representing different aspects of life and the universe. The chant describes the origins of the Hawaiian islands, the relationships between gods, humans, and nature, and the interconnection of all living things. It highlights the significance of genealogy, emphasizing the sacredness of nature and the importance of ancestry in Hawaiian culture, illuminating the rich spiritual heritage of Hawaii.