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| plumeria lei |
Hawaii is well-known for its lei-giving traditions. A lei is like a garland
or wreath of flowers (plumeria, orchid, jasmin - pikake, silk flowers etc),
leaves (maile, ti), kukui nuts, puka shells, wool or even candy strung
together. It can either be closed (like a large necklace) or open (like a
garland you drape over your shoulders).
A lei is given to honor the recipient and show them respect. Popular
occasions are birthdays, graduations and celebrations of any kind.
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| kukui nut lei |
When giving a lei, the recipient bends forward and the giver respectfully
places the lei around the recipient's neck without touching the recipient's
head or face. You may hug or kiss after. It is considered rude to refuse a lei.
It is also considered rude to take a lei off in front of the giver. If you
must, do it discreetly and place or hang the lei in a place of honor.
I have also learned that it is considered disrespectful to throw a lei into the trash. Traditionally you would return the lei to where it was made (for example, hang the plumeria lei from the plumeria tree), bury it or even burn it. (Probably not a feasible thing for tourists!)
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| maile lei |
And as for semantics... lei is both a singular and plural word. Hawaiians do
not add an 's' to the end of the word.
Ka lei (one lei)
Na lei (several lei)
Should you decide to make your own lei, please remember, lei are given as a
sign of respect. Please be respectful when gathering your lei-making supplies,
always ask before you pick flowers or leaves.
Labels: life on Maui, made in Maui, Maui artists
