Heritage on the Water
Our Canoeing Culture
Significance of the Outrigger Canoe in Hawaiian Society
The outrigger canoe holds a central place in Hawaiian culture, a symbol of communal unity and spiritual reverence. The construction of a new canoe is a community event, involving various roles from priests to craftsmen and laborers. Each step, from selecting the right tree to the launching of the canoe, is performed with meticulous care and respect. This process preserves the spirit of the tree within the canoe, which in turn is believed to safeguard the lives of those who navigate it.
“He wa’a he moku, he moku he wa’a” “the canoe is an island, and the island is a canoe.”
An ancient Hawaiian proverb
Navigating Traditions
In Hawaiian tradition, each canoe is viewed as a living entity endowed with mana, or spiritual power. This deep respect underscores the trust placed in these vessels, particularly given the challenging conditions of the open ocean surrounding the islands. The Hawaiian outrigger canoes, distinct in their simplicity and functional design features like the kupe (fore and aft hull covers) and pale kai (splashguard), are crafted to address these rigorous demands.
Outrigger canoe racing, which is both an ancient and modern pursuit, is believed to have originated in Hawaii. Historical records indicate that racing was a popular activity among ancient Hawaiians, often involving high stakes including wagers on life. Today, these races are regulated to ensure fairness and adherence to tradition, with specific standards for canoe dimensions and weight enforced in competitions overseen by organizations like Na ‘Ohana O Na Hui Wa‘a.
Technical and Linguistic Traditions in Hawaiian Canoeing
The specialized language associated with Hawaiian canoeing is crucial for ensuring clear communication among crew members, particularly during races. Terms like UNE (to lever) and KAHI (to cut) describe specific paddle actions, while commands such as HO‘OMAKAUKAU (get ready) and HUKI (pull hard) are used to synchronize and motivate the crew. This consistent use of Hawaiian nautical terminology by steerers (Ho‘okele) minimizes confusion and enhances the cohesion of the team.
Diversity of Hawaiian Canoes and Their Uses
The variety of canoes in Hawaii, each with specific functions and designs, reflects the adaptability and ingenuity of Hawaiian society. From fishing and surfing canoes to those built for racing and transport, each type is tailored to the environmental conditions and needs of its time. Racing canoes, for example, have evolved to meet the standards of modern competition, yet they still respect the historical designs and materials, such as the use of koa wood in state championship regattas.
Cultural Preservation Amidst Change
Ongoing efforts to preserve these canoeing traditions amidst modernization and cultural shifts are evident. While the introduction of new materials and construction techniques has brought changes, the fundamental aspects of canoe design and use remain rooted in cultural tradition and the practical demands of Hawaiian maritime conditions.
