Although we are a "freedom of religion" based culture, there is one that dominates with more then 50% of our population following it. It is called, "olelo i hai mua iaʻi" which translates into "words of promise." This is a monotheistic religion, and the god is called "E Hoomaka Ana" or "beginning." This god represents important principles and teachings, such as equality, "everyone is here for a reason," "power comes with responsiblity," and "rewards are gained by hard work."
Followers of this religion show their respect for the gods by going to dormant volcanoes, and praying in a zen, meditative ceremony, in which they thank "E Hoomaka Ana" for everything they have. People who lead these prayer ceremonies are called "hemolele alaka'i," and are usually women. They earn high respect throughout the community, and are gone to for wisdom or advice.
An important holiday for this religion is called, La O Ka Hoomanao, which translates into "Day of Remembrance.” This celebrates the miracle of life given to us by E Hoomaka Ana, allowing us to enjoy all that it life to offer. To celebrate this day, people go out and do something they’ve always dreamt of doing, something they’ve always wanted to achieve, relating to how they wouldn’t even have the opportunity to do so with E Hoomaka Ana.
Followers of this religion show their respect for the gods by going to dormant volcanoes, and praying in a zen, meditative ceremony, in which they thank "E Hoomaka Ana" for everything they have. People who lead these prayer ceremonies are called "hemolele alaka'i," and are usually women. They earn high respect throughout the community, and are gone to for wisdom or advice.
An important holiday for this religion is called, La O Ka Hoomanao, which translates into "Day of Remembrance.” This celebrates the miracle of life given to us by E Hoomaka Ana, allowing us to enjoy all that it life to offer. To celebrate this day, people go out and do something they’ve always dreamt of doing, something they’ve always wanted to achieve, relating to how they wouldn’t even have the opportunity to do so with E Hoomaka Ana.