In ancient times, the lives of the people living in the islands were governed by a strict “kapu” system of laws set down by local tribal chiefs. There were many laws that governed everyday life and kept peace among the islanders and kept them apart from tribal royalty. For example, men and women could not eat together and women were forbidden to eat certain foods such as port, some types of bananas and coconuts. The common person was not allowed to get close to the chief, walk on the same paths as royalty or allow their shadow to fall upon a member of the royal house as this was a bad omen. The penalty for violating these kapu laws was often severe corporal punishment or even death. If the offense was bad enough, even the offender’s family might be executed by the local King of the island.

The ancient Hawaiians believed that the gods would punish all of the islanders by bringing disasters such as tidal waves, lava flows, earthquakes or droughts to everyone if violators were not dealt with swiftly and severely. There was, however, one way that law breakers could seek forgiveness for their sins. This was to make their way, often with pursuers hot on their heels,  to an established place of refuge. Here, the unfortunate law-breaker could ask for forgiveness from whatever sin s/he had committed. The tribal priests could perform specific rites and all would be forgiven, This then allowed the violator to return home to their village as if nothing had happened.

One such place that is delightful to visit is Pu’uhonua o Honaunau on the Big Island of Hawaii. Located off Hwy 160 about 20-30 minutes south of Kailua-Kona, the place of refuge is easy to reach . Designated as a national park in 1961, facilities are excellent. Once inside the grounds, you can see ancient huts and carved canoes typical of the ones that their Polynesian ancestors used to cross the Pacific to settle on the island. Sometimes locals are present to talk about ancient life in the islands or to demonstrate crafts such as basketweaving or carving. The grounds are beaufiful and peaceful. Lovely walks surround the grounds where you can tour the old palace grounds as well as see the temple where the bones of ancient Hawaiian royalty are buried. The view of Honaunau Bay is spectacular and you may well see some of the large Hawaiian sea turtles sunning themselves on the rocks near the shore as this is a common nesting ground for the wonderful creatures. Cost to get into the park is $5.00 per carload but the stop is well worth the small fee. Take your time to explore this special area. You will definitely be glad you did.

Ezinearticles.com