How Much Do You Know About the Significance of Inoa in Hawaiian Culture?

The Story of Inoa: The Hawaiian Name and its Importance

• Inoa is the name given to a Hawaiian person and is considered the most prized possession of any Hawaiian.
• The name Inoa is more valuable than a woven mat, a man's model, or even a chief's hula made of the finest feathers.
• A homeroom teacher assigned students to learn about the story behind their Inoa and why it is important to them.
• The protagonist's Inoa is Kokoala'ioli, which means "a flight of my lowly."
• Kokoala'ioli's name is derived from the story of how his ancestor, Niole'i, saved the newborn Kamehameha the Great from being killed by rival chiefs.
• Kamehameha the Great was prophesied to become a warrior king and unite the Hawaiian Islands.
• Niole'i fled with the newborn, traversing rugged trails, dense forests, and steep valleys, to reach safety.
• The journey was perilous, and the baby nearly drowned in a river, but Niole'i persevered.
• Kokoala'ioli's name is a reminder of Niole'i's courageous and devoted flight to save a king.
• Hawaiian families have their own moral level, which is passed down through stories of their great ancestors.
• Keeping these stories alive allows Hawaiians to live worthy of their ancestors' respect.
• Inoa represents the connection between Hawaiians and their ancestors and the importance of preserving their cultural heritage.