A living bridge between cultures, Kimo Pihana, kahuna pule and retired Mauna Kea ranger, will speak Saturday evening, January 21, at 6:00 pm in the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy lecture room, on his unique role. Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian), Pihana is also a Hawaiian cultural activist who has spent the last twenty years becoming more involved in the culture in which he grew up.
As a kahuna pule, Pihana has responsibilities for and to Mauna Kea, considered a sacred site and spiritual center for many Hawaiians. The highest point in the Pacific Basin, the mountain rises 33,000 feet from the ocean floor to tower 13,796 feet above the waves. Also known as Mauna-o-Wakea, in some traditions it is considered a living altar of Wakea, the Sky Father and ancient progenitor of the Hawaiian people. And, it is the home of Poli`ahu, the snow goddess.
As a ranger, Pihana was responsible for helping people to stay safe while on the mountain, and helping to protect the mountain from the overly enthusiastic visitor.
Pihana says, "In the stars, astronomers can trace the ancient history of the universe. But we Hawaiians go to Mauna Kea in search of our mana—divine power—in a quest to understand our ancient spiritual connections. On the mountain we can feel the close relationship between heaven and earth. People of many nations say that it is a sacred place for them also, where they experience awe and reverence as we do."
Visitors to the mountain should wear layers, including a nice warm jacket. Socks and shoes are recommended, and gloves can be quite nice. Bring a bottle of water to drink, and a flashlight. Be polite to those who are stargazing and cover the light with a red lens or filter. Tissues for those whose noses run in cold weather are good, as well. Please read this link for more safety information.
For those unfamiliar with the island, there are no streetlights on the road up the mountain, we must preserve our beautiful dark skies! And, Mauna Kea sticks her head up above the clouds, which means you will be driving through them, so plan for at least an hour of travel time from Hilo. Please read this link for driving information.
We are currently in the season of Ho`oilo, the wet season, nearing the end of the month of Makali`i. Even if the day starts out dry, the weather can be quite changeable, especially on the Hilo/Hāmākua uplands.
At this time of year, tuber-type plants, dormant just weeks ago, are sending up their shoots in the now wet uplands. Traditional farmers take advantage of the softening soil to prepare the ground for post-Makahiki planting.
Soon after, the months of Ka`elo, Kaulua, Nana, and Welo follow along. At last, the month of Ikiiki begins Kau, the hot dry season.
Some prominent stars and constellations are Pūnana, or Hōkū Pa`a (the North Star), Pūlelehua (Orion), `Iwa Keli`i, or `Iwa Lani (Casseopeia), and Makali`i (Pleiades).
After the program in the lecture room, we will go up to the lanai at the Visitor Information Station to point out Hawaiian constellations, and to sign our CDs on which we share more stories and music.
For more information on the Malalo i ka Po Lani culture night programs at the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy, contact the Mauna Kea Visitor’s Information Station. Phone: (808) 961-2180 Fax: (808) 969-4892. http://www.ifa.hawaii.edu/info/vis/
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