The Sacred Power of Huna: Spirituality and Shamanism in Hawaii

An extensive study of ancient Hawaiian spirituality. • One of the first books to discuss the shamanistic aspects of the hula dance and the sacred sexuality of Hawaii. • Explores little known aspects of Hawaiian tradition such as lunar astrology and the spiritual powers in Hawaiian language and place names. Beneath the postcard images of paradise that depict Hawaii, anthropologist Rima Morrell found a secret and sophisticated spiritual tradition that few of its many visitors ever get to see. Far from being lost within the "civilizing" influences of the last few centuries, Hawaii's indigenous traditions merely went into hiding as its people refused to volunteer information about themselves to any but the most sincere seekers. Building on the work of such early researchers as Max Freedom Long, Rima Morrell reveals knowledge about this tradition than has not been previously available--such as the role of emotion in gaining true wisdom, the shamanic aspects of the hula, the magical elements of Hawaiian language, and a sophisticated system of lunar astrology--but also shows how the principles of a society woven with love can help shape our own lives. The system of ancient Hawaiian wisdom known as Huna teaches us how to focus the light of our own being to make magic. Many Hawaiians believe that light is knowledge in a pure state and that magic is the very fabric of life. When she first visited the islands Morrell found a lighter, brighter world, where trees talked to her in ancient temples and magic regularly happened. Following her Higher Self--and overcoming resistance to its rainbow guidance--she discovered we are each responsible for our own power and through practicing Huna, we can create our own reality and become magicians and navigators of our own soul.