| auntiemaria |
Apr 6th, 2006 08:01 AM |
Just like the cheesy (imported) shell lei that are given to visitors when they are in Hawai`i, this "find your Hawaiian name" is strictly for tourists.
A traditional Hawaiian name is given to a child by the chosen family member (usually father or grandmother) -- after careful (and often prolonged) consideration. Names are based on dreams, visions, signs, or something special at the child's birth. True Hawaiian names -- when translated -- tell a story about that person.
For example, my Hawaiian musician friend known by many as Dennis Kamakahi, has a much longer name:
DENNIS DAVID KAHEKILIMAMAOIKALANIKEHA KAMAKAHI
That long middle name translates to "The Distant Thunder In The Highest Heavens" -- which was the sound which greeted his birth.
So enjoy the "Hawaiian names" website, but realize that it's just for fun, 'kay? 8-)
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