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Cover of Fornander collection of Hawaiian antiquities and folk-lore, Volume 3 (of 3) : $b The Hawaiians' account of the formation of their islands and origin of their race, with the traditions of their migrations, etc., as gathered from original sources

Fornander collection of Hawaiian antiquities and folk-lore, Volume 3 (of 3) : $b The Hawaiians' account of the formation of their islands and origin of their race, with the traditions of their migrations, etc., as gathered from original sources

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LegendsFolkloreHawaiiHawaiian language

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About this book

"Fornander Collection of Hawaiian Antiquities and Folk-Lore, Volume 3" by Abraham Fornander is a comprehensive historical account written in the early 20th century. This volume brings together various narratives and traditions concerning the origins, formation, and migration of the Hawaiian islands and their people, as gathered from original sources. It serves as a significant compilation for those interested in understanding Hawaiian culture, traditions, and folklore. At the start of the book, the preface lays a foundation for what to expect in the ensuing content. It discusses the extensive research conducted to unveil the workings and influence of the Hawaiian priesthood, particularly regarding ancient religious ceremonies. One of the papers featured is a detailed account of religious practices focused on nurturing a royal child in a sacred environment, outlining the rituals, restrictions, and prayers involved in the process of childbirth and the upbringing of the child. The opening portion intricately weaves together the importance of divine beliefs, the societal roles of priests, and cultural practices crucial to Hawaiian identity, inviting readers to contemplate the profound connections between spirituality and everyday life in ancient Hawaii.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Fornander collection of Hawaiian antiquities and folk-lore, Volume 3 (of 3) : $b The Hawaiians' account of the formation of their islands and origin of their race, with the traditions of their migrations, etc., as gathered from original sources, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 20 hours
  • advanced
  • historical
  • mythical
  • scholarly

The Fornander Collection of Hawaiian Antiquities and Folk-Lore, Volume 3, is a monumental compilation of oral traditions, genealogies, myths, and historical accounts concerning the origins of the Hawaiian people and their islands. Assembled by Abraham Fornander, this volume specifically delves into the Hawaiian creation narratives, the formation of the archipelago, and the intricate sagas of their ancestral migrations across the Pacific. It serves as an invaluable primary source, meticulously documenting a rich cultural heritage that was rapidly disappearing in the late 19th century, offering profound insights into the indigenous worldview, cosmology, and socio-political structures.

“O Wakea, the Sky Father, and Papa, the Earth Mother, who gave birth to the islands and the generations of men.”

Key themes

Creation and Cosmology
This theme explores the Hawaiian understanding of the universe's origin, the birth of the islands, and the emergence of life. It details the primordial deities (like Wakea and Papa) and their roles in shaping the cosmos, emphasizing a continuous, interconnected process of creation rather than a singular event. The narratives often link natural phenomena directly to divine actions.
Genealogy and Lineage (Mo'oku'auhau)
Genealogy is central to Hawaiian identity, social structure, and historical understanding. This theme highlights the meticulous tracing of ancestral lines from gods to chiefs (ali'i) and commoners, establishing social status, political legitimacy, and a profound sense of connection to the past. It serves as both a historical record and a spiritual validation of one's place in the world.
The Sacredness of Land (ʻĀina)
The land ('āina) is not merely property but a living, sacred entity, an ancestral provider, and a physical manifestation of the gods. This theme explores the deep spiritual and practical connection between the Hawaiian people and their environment, emphasizing reciprocal relationships of care and sustenance. The land is seen as a parent, a source of life, and an integral part of identity.

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