Traditional Ho'oponopono

This description of the traditional Ho'oponopono comes from Hui Malama Ola Na O'iwi, The Native Hawaiian Health Care System for the Island of Hawai'i, Hilo.

Ho'oponopono means "To settle or make things right".
If there is a problem or an ill person in the family, the Haku or elder, calls the family together for Ho'oponopono.

Opening phase:
PULE WEHE - opening prayer sets the tone - develop trust - commitment
KUKULU KUMUHANA - determine emotional resources - identify problem

Discussion phase:
MAHIKI - unravel the problem like the layers of an onion
HIHIA - untangle deep upsets - place in proper order

Resolution phase:
HALA - review - make sure there are no loose ends from the original problem
KALA - to release from the burden
OKI - to sever the knots - bury the pains
MIHI - forgiveness

Process for stalemate:
HO'OMALU - recess - period of silence
HO'OMAUHALA - unable to resolve - hold fast to the problem
May be necessary to stop Ho'oponopono until sticky point is resolved

Closing phase:
PANI - closure - make certain everyone is satisfied
PULE HO'OPAU - closing prayer (opposite of Pule Wehe)
PAINA - feast - happiness