E hoʻomaikaʻi ke Akua iā Maui
In Hawaiian, "God bless maui" is expressed as E hoʻomaikaʻi ke Akua iā Maui.
The phrase is used as a benediction or a prayer for the well-being and protection of the island.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the particle E (indicating a wish or command), hoʻomaikaʻi (to bless/praise), ke Akua (the God) and iā Maui (upon Maui).
How does it change in a sentence?
The word hoʻomaikaʻi is a causative form of maikaʻi (good), literally meaning "to make good" or "to cause to be good/blessed". The article ke is used before Akua because Akua begins with a consonant.
Did you know?
- The name Maui used in this prayer is likely a shortened version of Māui. In Hawaiian mythology, Māui is a famous trickster hero who fished up the islands from the sea.
- The word Akua is a calque of the English word 'God'. While akua existed in the language, the capitalized version specifically mirrors the English concept of a single deity.
- In Hawaiian, the root maikaʻi does not just mean 'good' in a moral sense, but also refers to things that are 'fine' or 'well' in a physical or functional way.
Examples in context
- E hoʻomaikaʻi ke Akua iā Maui i kēia manawa.May God bless Maui at this time.
Example conversation
Leilani and Ikaika are praying for the island's recovery.
- LeilaniHe wahi kupapū ʻoe, e Maui.You are a sacred place, Maui.
- IkaikaʻAe, he nani loa ka ʻāina.Yes, the land is very beautiful.
- LeilaniE hoʻomaikaʻi ke Akua iā Maui.God bless Maui.
- IkaikaʻAe, amena.Yes, amen.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Akua, Maui, akua, hoʻomaikaʻi, ke, CC BY-SA 4.0.
