While traditional Hawaiian customs do not explicitly categorize throwing away a lei as 'bad luck' in a superstitious sense, such an act is considered contrary to the deep reverence and profound symbolic meaning attributed to these beautiful garlands. Lei are cherished symbols, and their disposal is approached with respect, not as ordinary trash.
The Symbolic Value of Lei
Lei hold immense cultural significance in Hawaii, representing much more than just a decorative item. They are powerful symbols of love and aloha, embodying greetings, farewells, celebration, honor, and deep affection. Due to this profound symbolism, the traditional practice has always been to treat lei with honor, even after they have been worn.
Traditional Disposal Practices
Native Hawaiians traditionally did not throw away lei. Instead, their disposal was a thoughtful process, reflecting their connection to nature and the elements from which they were created. The aim was to return the lei to the earth in a respectful manner, often to the very place where the flowers or seeds were originally gathered.
The accepted traditional methods for returning lei to nature include:
- Hanging them from a tree: This allows the lei to naturally decompose and return its elements to the environment.
- Burying the lei: Placing the lei underground facilitates its decomposition, rejoining it with the earth.
- Burning the lei: This method transforms the lei into ash, which then becomes part of the earth, completing its cycle.
These practices ensure that the lei, having served its purpose as a symbol of aloha, completes its journey by gracefully returning its components to nature rather than being discarded as waste. This respectful approach underscores the cultural value placed on the lei and the natural resources it represents.
