Spirituality: Oli and Pule Through The Moʻolelo of Hawaiian Healers

Abstract

This moʻolelo brings awareness to the spiritual rituals of oli and pule in lāʻau lapaʻau by acknowledging the spiritual aspects of healing that builds relationships with Akua and others, and most importantly yourself. Through my personal lived experiences and moʻolelo from both kūpuna and practitioners of healing, I reflect upon the importance and values of how each individual perpetuates the practices of these spiritual rituals. I take on this kuleana as a Kānaka Maoli who has experienced the power of pule, and its function and purpose in oli, pule, and spirituality inately found in the practice of lāʻau lapaʻau. The moʻolelo I share, in great part, comes through my kumu and mentor Keoki Kīkaha Pai Baclayon, kumu of Hālau Lapaʻau ʻo Waitata and ʻĒwekea Piʻi Moʻo Lāʻau Lapaʻau. It is also expressed through various journals, conversations with kūpuna, and experiences outside of hālau. The different knowledge and values taught to me during my time in hālau has made me the person that I am today, and I would not know where I would be if it was not for lāʻau lapaʻau. When others read my moʻolelo, I want them to understand the values of spiritual healing within lāʻau lapaʻau, and how it can change their lives too. Oli and pule are the foundational aspects in healing and lāʻau lapaʻau.