Kino Lau//Multiple Bodies

Understanding the animistic nature of the Hawaiian Akua.

The polytheistic nature of Hawai’ian religion recognises four Akua - Lono, Kū, Kanaloa and Kāne, demigods and other ancestors. Each of these figures additionally have manifestations or elements associated with them known as Kino Lau. 

Kino lau directly translated means many bodies therefore every natural phenomenon embodies a Hawaiian deity usually tied to their name, domain or purpose. 

Throughout mo’olelo (stories of place) we can see these Akua appearing in other forms based on their situational needs, this allowed the Akua to traverse Islands, assist in troubling situations, guide others, and in some situations cause trouble.

Husband and wife pair Lono and Laka are often celebrated together during Makahiki (winter) season, their kino lau can both be seen during Makahiki season through strong winds, clouds, rainbows and 

When different Akua are together their intentions and kino lau change, when Lono and Laka are together they symbolise peace, growth and agricultural prosperity.

As one of her kino lau is Hula, it is often practised during Makahiki as a physical representation to honour the pair and manifest a prosperous new year. 

Kino Lau furthers the analogic and animistic nature of the Hawai’ian religion which can be seen across multiple cultures such as Hinduism and Buddhism.