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Who is Lono?
Lono is a Hawaiian god of agriculture and rain. He appears in ho' oilo (the wet season) as rain clouds and winter storms. Some po'e kahiko (Hawaiins of old) describe Lono as the "akua po'o huna i ke ao Iewa" or the one whose head is hidden in the dark clouds. The water he brings, ecspecially to the dry, leeward regions, helps keep the land fertile. Legend has it that Lono is responsible for bringing cultivated plants to Hawaii. This solidifies his important role in agriculture. Lono is also associated with the Makahiki celebration. Makahiki is a time of peace and recreation. It's a time to celebrate the hard work of farming and enjoys the fruits of one's labor.
What is Lono's Role?
The people of Hawaii appeal to Lono for rainfall and good crops and give thanks to Lono for a great harvest. Mapele ceremonies were held on the leeward sides of the island where rainfall was less frequent than on the windward side. Lono was very important to agriculture. When a young boy was ready to take the role an responsibility of a man, he was "ka i mua," or thrust into the men's house. He was ceremonially dedicated to Lono. This marked the boy as a farmer, as someone who works together with Lono and the other akua to create abundance.
The Kinolau of Lono
Many plants and animals are said to be different forms of Lono.
Lono's Kinolau include : 'uala (sweet potato)
ipu (gourd plant)
kukui (candlenut tree)
'ama'u (fern)
hapu'u (tree fern)
mai'a hinupua'a (banana)
Even the natural phenomena Hawaiians experienced in ho' oilo (the wet season) are signs of Lono. These included clusters of dark clouds, thunder, partial rainbows, whirlwinds, and watersprouts. Sacrificing a pig is a big deal in a traditional Hawaiian ceremony. The pig's body or parts of it were a fitting sacrifice for Lono, but when a pig could not be obtained some specific plants and fish can work to replace the pig.
The Connection of Lono and Makahiki
Makahiki marks the time of year when Lono returns to Hawaii from Kahaki. It coincides with ho'oilo (the wet season), which begins in October or November. Makahiki lasts for roughly four months. This season is a time for rest and rejuvenation. Tribute would be given to ali'i, there were no wars, and games and sports were the main pastime.
Lono Today
Hawaii continues to be a place that needs rainwater to sustain the land and produce crops. Learning about Lono helps us understand Hawaii's unique weather pattern and seasonal changes.
Lono - Makua
Lono the god of Ho'oilo
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