What is the Hawaiian greeting?

Aloha is a traditional Hawaiian greeting that encompasses a wide range of positive sentiments and is used in various contexts. It is not merely a simple "hello" or "goodbye"; rather, it is a catch-all word that conveys good intentions, feelings of love, affection, kindness, and goodness. The spirit of Aloha is deeply ingrained in Hawaiian culture and is reflected in the way people interact with one another and with their surroundings.
The word "Aloha" is derived from two Hawaiian words: "alo" meaning presence or face, and "ha" which is a particle that signifies a combination or unity. Thus, when you say "Aloha," you are essentially saying, "I am present with you in the spirit of unity and affection." This greeting is used not only as a formal salutation but also as a way to express love and compassion towards others.
In Hawaii, Aloha is more than just a word; it is a way of life. It is a philosophy that encourages people to live harmoniously with one another and with nature. The Aloha Spirit Law, which was enacted in 1986, codified the essence of Aloha as follows:
> "Aloha Spirit is the coordination of mind and heart within each person. It brings one to the self. Each person makes an earnest effort to perpetuate goodwill among people today and to the end that the practice of Aloha shall be a living force in Hawaii and a true reflection of Hawaii's heritage."
This law emphasizes the importance of the Aloha Spirit in Hawaiian society and its role in fostering a sense of community and mutual respect.
In addition to "Aloha," there are other Hawaiian words that are commonly used as greetings or expressions of gratitude. For instance, "Mahalo" is a word of thanks, similar to "thank you" in English. It is used to express gratitude for a favor, a gift, or simply for the kindness of another person.
Hawaiian greetings are not just verbal; they also include physical gestures. The most well-known of these is the "Hawaiian handshake," which involves a clasping of hands and a slight nod. This gesture is a way of showing respect and connection when meeting someone for the first time.
The use of Aloha in everyday life extends beyond greetings and farewells. It is often used in various forms of media, such as in song lyrics, literature, and even in the names of businesses and products. The Aloha spirit is also celebrated in festivals and events throughout the year, where people come together to share in the joy and camaraderie that the word represents.
In conclusion, the Hawaiian greeting of Aloha is a profound and multifaceted expression that goes beyond a simple exchange of pleasantries. It is a cultural cornerstone that embodies the essence of Hawaiian hospitality, unity, and love. Embracing the Aloha Spirit means embracing a way of life that values kindness, respect, and a deep connection with others and the world around us.

A catch-all word of good intentions and feelings. Used as a greeting or parting, but also means love, affection, kindness and goodness. In Hawaii, people do things with aloha: drive, surf, work and live. 2. Mahalo.Mar 11, 2014