Hawai‘i Wisdom

A giant anuenue, or rainbow, is seen here last fall enveloping the Sleeping Giant in Wailua, Kaua‘i’s Eastside.

“Kau ka ‘ōnohi ali‘i i luna,” or the royal eyes rest above, is an ancient Hawaiian proverb which means the sight of a rainbow is a sign the gods are watching the chiefs.

“Kulia i ka nu‘u” is another ancient Hawaiian proverb, meaning strive for the summit, or excellence. It was the motto of Queen Kapi‘olani, wife of King Kalakaua and daughter of Kaua‘i Princess Kinoiki Kekaulike.

Source: ‘Olelo No‘eau by Mary Kawena Pukui.