Wahi Pana
The Hawai’ian cultural concept of a sacred safe space
Wahi or place, and pana translates to beat, rhythm or pulse (such as pu’uwai pana meaning heartbeat.) Together the words mean a sacred or legendary place with direct translation indicating a wahi pana is a place with a pulse.
The interconnectedness of Hawai’ian people and the land is perpetuated through Wahi Pana, as those who steward the locations are the reason the sacred spaces have a pana (pulse.)
Wahi Pana hold Mo’olelo or stories of place intended to aid, teach or warn and are often the sites of Royal Births and heiau. Due to the sacred nature of Wahi Pana, treating them with the utmost respect is imperative.
Popularly known Wahi Pana on Oahu range from ‘Iolani Palace (the official residence of the Hawai’ian Monarchs) to the Kūkaniloko Birthstones State Historic Site (the birthplace of future leaders of Hawai’i.)
The cultural concept of Wahi Pana includes the unspoken need for hana kūpono. Acting in a way that is Hana (behaviour) Kūpono (appropriate/honest) means when visiting a Wahi Pana, behaving in a way that is respectful by not conducting activities such as ‘oli or pule if one is not allowed, remaining silent and engaging in the present moment.
These places are not limited to areas of cultural events and significance, a Wahi Pana can also be of personal importance. Known for regions that contain mana or high spiritual power, personal Wahi Pana may be the burial site of Kūpuna.
Above: Ahupua’a O Kahana, a Wahi Pana I am blessed to mālama and share
Before entering a Wahi Pana, it is essential to silently acknowledge kūpuna or ancestors who have resided on or are buried on the land, and research the history to determine whether it is pono (morally correct) for one to be on the land.
Community Wahi Pana such as the Keaiwa Heiau, Waimea Valley/Hale O Lono, and Waimanalo are popularly known on the Island of Oahu. All three sites are available for visitation and following the correct practices is a great opportunity to learn about Wahi Pana.