 | This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (October 2021) |
In Hawaiian mythology, the Kupua are a group of supernatural entities which might be considered gods or spirits (see also Atua).
Hawaiian myths and legends abound with such characters. They are traditionally described as monsters having the power of appearing in different kinds of bodies. They usually have cruel and vindictive characters and are ready to destroy and devour any persons they can catch. There are, however, many kupuas of kindly spirit who give watchful care to the members of their own families.
Many Hawaiian kupua are considered as gods having a double body, sometimes appearing as a man and sometimes being able to change shape, into an animal, vegetable, or mineral form. The latter form always possesses supernatural powers. William Westervelt mentions the following classification for kupua:
- Ka-poe-kino-lau (the people who had leaf bodies)
- Ka-poe-kino-pua (the people who had flower bodies)
- Ka-poe-kino-manu (the people who had bird bodies)
- Ka-poe-kino-laau (trees of all kinds, ferns, vines, etc.)
- Ka-poe-kino-pupu (all shells)
- Ka-poe-kino-ao (all clouds)
- Ka-poe-kino-maani (all winds)
- Ka-poe-kina-ia (all fish)
- Ka-poe-kina-mano (all sharks)
- Ka-poe-kina-limu (all sea-mosses)
- Ka-poe-kina-pokaku (all peculiar stones)
- Ka-poe-kina-hiwa-hiwa (all dangerous places of the pali)