Maluhia me ʻoe
/ma.luˈhi.a me ˈʔo.e/word by word
In Hawaiian, "peace be with you" is said as Maluhia me ʻoe.
The phrase is used as a formal greeting or blessing to wish someone peace. While the word maluhia specifically translates to peace or tranquility, it is worth noting that the concept of peace is also deeply embedded in the word Aloha, which represents love, peace and compassion.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of maluhia (peace/tranquility), me (with) and ʻoe (you).
How does it change in a sentence?
To address a group of people instead of one person, replace the singular ʻoe with the plural ʻoukou, resulting in Maluhia me ʻoukou.
How do you pronounce it?
/ma.luˈhi.a me ˈʔo.e/. The phrase has 6 syllables, with the stress on the 3rd syllable.
Did you know?
- Even though you are wishing peace, the word maluhia actually originates from the root word malu, which can also imply being 'sheltered' or 'protected'.
- In a traditional setting, saying Maluhia me ʻoukou to a group can act as a powerful way to settle a room and invite calm before a meeting or ceremony.
- The structure of maluhia uses a passive suffix, implying that peace is something that is granted or experienced rather than actively created.
Examples in context
- Maluhia me ʻoe.Peace be with you.
Example conversation
Koa and Leilani meet at a quiet gathering.
- KoaAloha, Leilani. Maluhia me ʻoe.Greetings, Leilani. Peace be with you.
- LeilaniAloha mai, Koa. Mahalo.Greetings, Koa. Thank you.
- KoaHe lā maikaʻi kēia.This is a good day.
- LeilaniʻAe, he lā maluhia kēia.Yes, it is a peaceful day.
