The Kumulipo is a 2,000-line creation chant tracing origin from cosmic darkness (po) through progressive stages into light (ao). Life begins in the sea with coral and evolves through complex forms. Kane is the primary creative force. Humans are kin to all living things through shared genealogy.

Kapu system governed behavior until 1819. Malama aina as sacred duty. Pono as guiding principle.

To live in pono (balance), maintain mana through proper conduct, serve as malama (steward) of land and sea, and honor akua (gods) and aumakua (ancestral guardians). Life is sacred and good.

Suffering may result from violation of kapu, loss of mana, sorcery, or displeasure of akua. Natural phenomena reflect activities of the gods. Addressed through ritual, ho'oponopono (reconciliation), and restoration of balance.

No apocalyptic eschatology. After death, the soul may become an aumakua (ancestral guardian spirit), travel to the underworld, or join the gods. Aumakua take forms in nature (sharks, owls) and protect descendants.