pule
/ˈpu.le/
The Hawaiian word for "prayers" is pule.
The term pule refers to words that are spoken or thought as a way of communicating with a deity.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable. It is pronounced /ˈpu.le/.
Did you know?
- In addition to its spiritual meaning, pule can refer to a 'cowrie shell'. These shells were historically valued as ornaments and currency across the Pacific.
- Because of the influence of early missionaries, pule is used today for both traditional indigenous spiritual appeals and Christian prayers.
- In traditional Hawaiian culture, the act of pule often involves specific physical gestures or stances to show humility before the divine.
Examples in context
- He pule kēia.This is a prayer.
- E hoʻomanaʻo i nā pule.Remember the prayers.
- Ua hoʻomaka ka pule.The prayer has started.
Example conversation
Noelani and Koa are preparing for a family gathering.
- NoelaniKoa, e pule mākou i mua o ka ʻaina.Koa, we will pray before the meal.
- KoaʻAe, Noelani, e pule pū kākou.Yes, Noelani, let us all pray together.
- NoelaniHe pule pōʻino kēlā?Is that a prayer for the evening?
- KoaʻAe, he pule pono kēia no kākou.Yes, this is a proper prayer for us.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry pule, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries pule, CC BY-SA 4.0.
