Imagine rivers of molten rock cascading down a mountainside, a breathtaking yet terrifying spectacle. That's exactly what unfolded in Hawaii recently as Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, erupted once again. But here's where it gets fascinating: this isn't just a destructive force; it's a powerful creator, shaping the very land we stand on.
Stunning visuals captured the eruption, showcasing massive plumes of lava gushing from Kilauea's craters on Hawaii's Big Island. This isn't an isolated event – Kilauea has been incredibly active, erupting a staggering 36 times since December alone. Scientists believe these eruptions are all interconnected, part of a single, ongoing event fueled by magma following the same path to the surface.
Last month, the volcano put on a particularly dramatic show, launching lava 400 meters into the air – higher than the iconic Empire State Building! While some might view lava flows as purely destructive, Huihui Kanahele-Mossman, the executive director of the Edith Kanakaʻole Foundation, offers a different perspective. She sees lava as a vital natural resource, one that hardens into new land, forming the very foundation of Hawaii Island.
Kanahele-Mossman's foundation, named after her grandmother, a revered guardian of Hawaiian language and culture, celebrates the island's traditions through its hula halau (school). Their hula style is deeply rooted in the stories of Pele, the volcano goddess, and her sister Hiʻiaka.
Since the eruption began, Kanahele-Mossman has made several pilgrimages to the crater. Initially overwhelmed with awe and reverence, she then meticulously observes the lava's flow, comparing it to the descriptions found in centuries-old tales her school performs.
And this is the part most people miss: she doesn't just observe; she actively participates. She delivers carefully prepared chants and offers gifts to the volcano, recently presenting awa (a kava-based drink) and a fern lei.
For Kanahele-Mossman, witnessing the eruption isn't just about spectacle; it's about connection. As a hula dancer, she sees herself as a storyteller, carrying forward the history embedded in the mele (Hawaiian songs). Seeing the eruption described in these ancient mele is a profound experience, fueling her passion for preserving this rich cultural tradition.
This eruption, while a powerful natural event, also sparks a deeper conversation. Is lava solely a force of destruction, or is it a vital part of the island's ongoing creation story? Kanahele-Mossman's perspective challenges us to see beyond the immediate impact and appreciate the complex relationship between nature and culture.
What do you think? Is lava a destructive force or a creator? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Reported with Associated Press.
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