MAKANA MOUNTAIN GUARDIAN: MIMI
MAKANA MOUNTAIN GUARDIAN: MIMI
MAKANA MOUNTAIN CHANT: Ma-ka-na Ohm. Ma-hat-ma Na-ma Ohm.
|
|
The North Shore of Kauai is
considered by many to be the
most beautiful part of the Hawaiian Archipelago . . .
Past Hanalei Town, the road
narrows to two lanes and winds its way for several
miles to a glorious end at Ke'e Beach. It's a magnificent journey, bordered
on one side by emerald mountains laced with shimmering waterfalls,
and on the other by stretches of white sand and aquamarine seas.
As you cross a series of picturesque one-lane bridges you are transported back
in time to an area of pristine natural beauty. This is Ha'ena, in Kauai, Hawaii,
an area known for its legendary beauty, tranquil ambience, and rich history.
Ha'ena, the exotic backdrop for countless films, is serene yet rugged, carrying
a
spirit called mana - the power that emanates from sacred places.
Many ancient Kauai legends are rooted here, and today, Ha'ena's magic
continues to inspire poets, photographers, and artists of all persuasions.
Life is slow here. That's part of the magic. There's no pressure. No one
hurries.
The locals learned long ago that things get done . .. on "island time."
If you see someone rushing in Ha'ena, it's likely a malihini (newcomer)
who hasn't quite gotten into the spirit yet.
Ancient caves created from lava tubes are easily explored from the main road.
There's the Maniniholo Dry Cave, and two wet caves, Waikapala'e and Wakanaloa,
said to
have been formed by the Fire goddess Pele as she searched for an appropriate
homesite.
Instead of striking fire, she struck water and moved on to the island of Hawaii
to
make her home in the fiery crater of Kilauea Volcano.
Just beyond the dry cave, the mystical peak of Makana is visible . . .
the source of many legends. In ancient times, Makana was used for the Oahi
Ceremony,
where light, dry logs were set aflame and flung off the mountaintop. Caught by
the ocean winds,
they were carried out to sea in a shower of sparks,
creating a spectacle for miles around.
This ceremony was reserved for very special occasions.
|
|
|
|
|
|
