Receiving a lei from a loved one can be one of the greatest honors one can receive. It’s a symbol of the pillars of Hawaiian culture and belief. It isn’t uncommon to receive one on special occasions, but what does it mean to receive a Hawaiian lei? This article will go over what it means, and it may help you decide which one suits your occasion best.
A Spiritual Tradition
Many believe that when given a lei, you receive a piece of the gift giver’s spirit that is to stay with you. In past beliefs, the crafter would imbue a part of their soul into the weaving and focus on their intention when making a lei by hand. Typically, lei are tokens of peace, friendship, and unity.
Chiefs, Priests, and Brides
Lei are symbols of unity, partially because of how people used them in the past. Chieftains used to gift lei to opposing chiefs as a peace offering. Also, they were gifted to honor priests or wrapped around the hands of a bride and groom to resemble their everlasting union. Receiving a lei can have any of these intentions.
Modern Day: A Gift of Love
While they are still gifted in wedding ceremonies and funerals, lei are graduation gifts now, too. It’s representative of the adoration your loved ones have for you and the hope of success in the future. To receive a Hawaiian lei means that you are loved, and the people around you wish you peace and harmony.
Hopefully, learning what it means to receive a Hawaiian Lei can show you how to convey your love and affection for those closest to you. If you cannot make one yourself, there are fresh Hawaiian lei for sale that can come right to your door.
Don’t hesitate to show your loved ones how much they mean to you with this beautiful and traditional Hawaiian gift. There is no better way to convey your care and intentions than with this gift of natural beauty and everlasting kinship.