Class of 2013
Ka ʻōnohi lama (glowing center)
Lama n. endemic ebony; torch;
ʻōnohi n. center; figurative “eye”
ʻŌnohi is most frequently associated with the eye, especially the center. It is the core of a being. Oʻahu was sometimes referred to as “Oʻahu, ka ʻōnohi o nā kai” – Oʻahu the gem of the islands (Oʻahu is the principal island of the group) because of its role as the center of governement.
Lama is often used as a symbol of enlightenment because by definition it is a torch. In fashioning a torch, many kukui were needed. These kukui would be secured to a staff and the natural oil within became the fuel for the torch. The class of 2013 is like this torch with each individual an integral part of the light created. Many hālau have a block of lama as the centerpiece of the kuahu. This is the place that Laka would reside and provide enlightenment for the ʻōlapa. The wood of the lama was used as posts for houses and often used as the center post. It was also used in fashioning fish traps because of their strength.
Together, ka ʻōnohi lama, is the center torch of a group like a beacon of leadership.
In hope that the class of 2013 can be the beacons of our future.
Hāloa ka ʻōnohi lama (the glowing center reaches far)
Krauss, Beatrice H. Plants in Hawaiian culture. Univ of Hawaii Pr, 1993.
Aiona, Isabella. Lā’au Hawai’i: traditional Hawaiian uses of plants. Bishop Museum Pr, 1992. Print.