Aloha kakahiaka e ko Maui! Today, March 17th marks the birthday of Queen Ka'ahumanu. She was a wonderful example of a Hawaiian woman who embraced Christianity and yet was able to hold fast to her culture and traditions. Born at Ka'uiki on the shores of Ponahakeone, Ka'ahumanu was the daughter of Maui chiefess Nāmāhana and her husband, high chief and counselor to Kamehameha, Ke'eaumoku from the island of Hawai'i. With her father's role in Kamehameha's court, Ka'ahumanu spent much of her time on Hawai'i island in the presence of Kamehameha and his most trusted advisors. At the age of 17 she married Kamehameha and although he had many wives, she was considered his favorite wife. Upon the death of Kamehameha, Ka'ahumanu became Kuhina Nui, Prime Minister of Hawai'i and quickly became one of the most powerful Hawaiian woman. She used her intelligence and experience to change Hawaiian laws and together with Keōpūolani and Liholiho, broke the 'ai kapu, by eating together. On December 5th, 1925 Ka'ahumanu was baptized at Kawaiaha'o church. With her knowledge of Christianity she created and presented the first code of law, patterned after the Ten Commandments. She will forever be remembered for her strength, courage and mana as a Hawaiian woman. Hau'oli Lā Hānau e Ka'ahumanu.
Aloha nō, a hui hou . . .
Luana
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