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Free Traveling Guides » States » Hawaii » KauaiKe Ahu A Laka
Ke Ahu A Laka is a significant archaeological site associated with the hula. Situated on the north shore of the Ke`e Beach, Ke Ahu A Laka is an important platform where hula is performed. This site is still used for graduation and other ceremonies by hula halau. Ke Ahu A Laka, meaning the ‘altar of laka’, is dedicated to Laka, the Goddess of Hula and sister of Pele. It can be accessed via the scenic trail along the Ke`e Beach’s shoreline. This ancient site is also commonly known as the Ka`ulu`olaka, meaning the ‘inspiration of Laka’. The altar of Laka was initially constructed for the use of dancers who used to take up the demanding and strenuous study of the kahiko. The dancers were not allowed to cut their nails or hair or have sexual intercourse. Eating certain foods was also forbidden. The dancers intended to bring about fertility in nature through the erotic dancing of the islands of Polynesia.
The art of chant and dance was a sacred vehicle through which the Hawaiians taught and preserved all that they knew of their rich culture and heritage. This sacred art was taught to the dancers by the famous teacher, kumu hula. Goddess Laka, daughter of Haumea, had attributes of domestication, gentleness, and attraction. In order to become an instrument of the sacred art, an ideal student of kahiko was required to inculcate the qualities of Laka. The Ke Ahu A Laka was the ultimate school of learning and wisdom. It is believed that it is at this sacred place that several students studied great traditions, dances, and chants of the past till 1920s.
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