From the first Europeans visiting the islands in 1778 and the establishment of the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1795 to Hawaii’s admittance to the United States of America in 1959, the Hawaiian Islands are steeped in history — as well as countless myths, legends, mysteries, and secrets sure to intrigue you. There is, however, no greater mystery than that of where Kamehameha I has been laid to rest.
Kamehameha I, also referred to as Kamehameha the Great, unified the Hawaiian Islands under one rule.
Unknown/Wikipedia As the founder and first ruler of the Kingdom of Hawaii, Kamehameha is easily the islands’ most important historical figure, and since the day of his death, May 8, 1819, the location of his bones has been one of the greatest secrets in all of Hawaii.
The ancient Hawaiians had ceremonial burial rituals for all, though the funeral rites given to ruling chiefs were especially sacred and complex.
Kirt Edblom/Flickr A ceremony that prepared the body for the afterlife included the removal of the flesh from the bones, and was followed by a secret burial of the chiefly bones.
The bones were hidden at night for ultimate secrecy, and the location was kept secret by whomever the duty was entrusted to, typically the deceased’s closest advisor.
Prayitno/Flickr In the case of Kamehameha, Chief Ulumaheihei, who was referred to as Hoapili by the King, was given the honor.
The location of the bones must be kept secret in order to ensure that Kamehameha I’s spirit transitioned into the world of the aumakua, or gods.
Wally Gobetz/Flickr It was also believed that if the burial site was disclosed, an enemy who came into contact with the bones could absorb the chiefly mana (power in the Hawaiian language.
It has yet to be proven, but many believe that Kamehameha I’s remains are located on Hawaii Island within a burial cave at Kaloko-Honokohau, along with other famous Hawaiian rulers.
vipnyc/Flickr
Others say that King Kalakaua ordered Kamehameha’s bones to be relocated to the Royal Mausoleum in Oahu’s Nu’uanu Valley.
steph_peregrine/Flickr
The conflicting accounts surrounding Kamehameha the Great’s final resting place are likely intentional stories conjured up to ensure this mystery remains unsolved.
LuxTonnerre/Flickr After all, if Kamehameha’s bones were ever exhumed, whether on purpose or accident, there is no telling what chain of events this grave disrespect might set off.
So, where do you think the bones of Kamehameha I are buried? Share your opinions in the comments below, then click here to read all about one of Hawaii’s other great mysteries: the unsolved case of the Honolulu Strangler.
Unknown/Wikipedia
As the founder and first ruler of the Kingdom of Hawaii, Kamehameha is easily the islands’ most important historical figure, and since the day of his death, May 8, 1819, the location of his bones has been one of the greatest secrets in all of Hawaii.
Kirt Edblom/Flickr
A ceremony that prepared the body for the afterlife included the removal of the flesh from the bones, and was followed by a secret burial of the chiefly bones.
Prayitno/Flickr
In the case of Kamehameha, Chief Ulumaheihei, who was referred to as Hoapili by the King, was given the honor.
Wally Gobetz/Flickr
It was also believed that if the burial site was disclosed, an enemy who came into contact with the bones could absorb the chiefly mana (power in the Hawaiian language.
vipnyc/Flickr
steph_peregrine/Flickr
LuxTonnerre/Flickr
After all, if Kamehameha’s bones were ever exhumed, whether on purpose or accident, there is no telling what chain of events this grave disrespect might set off.
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