Mālama ‘Āina: A Treasured Hawaiian Tradition of Landcare
Posted by Maris on 16th Jan 2024
The Hawaiian word ma'ama means "to tend to and defend." "mālama ʻāina" which means to take care of the land, is frequently linked to the word "mālama."
Hawaiians still cherish, care for, and defend the land. It is where we get our life from. It will look after us if we look after it.
There are many uses for the term "mālama." When bidding farewell to someone in Hawaii, people may say "Mālama pono," which translates to "watch out" or "be careful."
"Mālama Honua," which meaning to take care of the earth, is another often used expression. We preserve the environment for next generations when we take care of it.
Another meaning of maālama is to tend to others. People who embody the principles of mālama possess a broader outlook. They recognize that everyone experiences some form of suffering and requires care and affection. While some of us may naturally possess these qualities, others must work and gain these skills over time.
When we observe the needs of the world, ourselves, and others, we act responsibly. This is known as mālama.
We can live out the value of mālama by serving, guarding, and nurturing others, just like many other Hawaiian virtues. One intriguing aspect of mālama is that we truly cure ourselves when we tend to the needs of others.
Thought-provoking conundrum, it makes sense. In the end, Christ declared, "He who will save his life will lose it; but he who will lose his life for my sake will save it."
We discover who we are and what our lives mean and purpose when we actively look for ways to help others.