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Pu u omahuka Heiau Sacrificial Site

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Pu u omahuka Heiau Sacrificial Site 0:0

Address

http://www.hawaiistateparks.org/par...
Off Pupukea (Homestead) Road (Highway 835)
Pupukea , HI 96712

Hours

Every day Dawn - Dusk

Review

High on what was then an open ridge, Pu u O Mahuka Heiau once commanded a tremendous view. When ceremonial and communication fires were lit, they could be seen as far south as Kaena Point’s "spirit leap" and as far north as the Heiau at Wailua on the island of Kauai. From the nearly 300 foot vertical cliffs, you can look down into the blue water, dazzling sand, and frothing white waves of Waimea Bay. Further inland the dense jungle of the Waimea Valley disappears in the mountain mist.

As with other Hawaiian Heiau this site was a focus of great religious and cultural importance. However, due to its ancient age it has served many different functions and received numerous additions over its centuries of use. Its name "hill of escape" may have referred to its early origins as a place of refuge but other uses have included offerings for fertility and abundance, success in war, beginning of peace, appeasement for suffering, and consecration of noble birth. It is however the dramatic legends of human sacrifice that often draw today’s visitors to this site. Most notable among these is the story of three sailors from Captain George Vancouver’s ship that were captured while searching for fresh water; and later sacrificed at this very spot. Most accounts of the story generally end at this point but the oral histories frequently include the explanation that the conflict arose over the aggressive taking of fresh water without any offer of compensation. Whatever the details of this particular event, it occupies only a small, possibly irrelevant place in the complex and rich history of this Heiau.

Looking across the site, the black lava rocks are all that remain of walls, some of which were more than six feet high. Their extensive outline indicates only the remnants of this largest of all heiaus on Oahu. Spreading over a considerable area were ceremonial thatched huts, an altar, a scaffold tower, kii (carved wooden images similar to totems), storage for ceremonial items, prayer offerings, extensive seating, wood platforms, and open air floors and pathways made of pounded rock and shell. The density of people and structures here must have been exceptional. This heiau, was not only of importance to the local residents but was the major political and religious center of all of Northern Oahu. The rich valley of Waimea made possible the wealth, abundance, and status to support such a large and demanding focal point of the community.

Among the sacred stones and rock walls and into the forest border you will find fresh offerings of leis, flowers, small stones and food wrapped in ti leaves. Enjoy the privilege of witnessing the current worship of this site but do not touch or remove any of these items and never stand or walk across any of the rock walls. It is most respectful to not leave any casual items or offerings including most particularly coins or anointments which permanently damage the stone structure.

There’s a modern trail that has been added that allows you to walk around the outside of the site and explore the setting and views of the valley. Depending on the weather, the fine red volcanic soil can be dry and dusty or wet and sticky but the views are exceptionally dramatic and may be worth a little bother.

Unaccountably, despite the historical importance and scenic beauty of this location; it is relatively ignored by the throngs of tourist visiting the North Shore. So, if you need a little "escape" you might consider making the slight effort it takes to visit this remarkable Heiau. Who knows, if you’re open to it, you might even experience the mana, the sacred spirit, of this ancient Hawaiian site.
Written By: Bud Hardwick
On: 5/8/2009

Directions

Take Kamehameha Highway (#83) north of Haleiwa past Waimea Beach Park, Waimea Valley, and the Church of Saint Peter and Paul. Soon after passing these turn right, uphill onto Pupukea (Homestead) Road. Follow this narrow twisty road up for about ½ of a mile; turn right onto a narrow dirt road (there may be a sign) continue for about ¾ mile which ends at the heiau’s parking lot; about 1.3 miles from highway.

Map

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