Abstract

This thesis research analyzes how Hawaiian birthing practices have changed through time by looking through accounts in the Hawaiian Language Repository. It tracks our understanding of birthing practices to stories of Pua Kanikawī and Kanikawā, commonly referenced throughout our tradition as symbolic medicinal flowers created by the deity Haumea to aid in childbirth process. Through the analysis of twelve mo‘olelo from the Hawaiian language newspapers, this research demonstrates how Kanikawī and Kanikawā are tied to phenomenon in the natural environment produced by the gods, the sound, synergy, and rhythm of musical instruments, and the intimacy between lovers. While these cultural connotations are seemingly different, they are all interconnected and associated with the need for partners to be in sync with the environment, community, and with each other leading up to childbirth, which is viewed as a spiritual process. This research demonstrates how important lessons from our traditional stories can help shape the resurgence of Hawaiian cultural practices today looking at the application of these traditional concepts in a program called Ka Lāhui of Ka Pō a community-based program of Ho‘oulu ‘Āina in located in Kalihilihilauomiha, a place associated with the goddess Haumea the patron of childbirth.