At its most fundamental level, Ho`oponopono is a process for cleansing of the `uhane, or spirit.

 

Ho`oponopono relies upon several key concepts: Aloha, a renewing of the hā, or the exchange of breath and of love, is an important healing force that helps in the repair of damaged relationships and allows for forgiveness and solutions in the family.  `oia`i`o, or the truth, is both needed and expected from every participant in order to resolve problems at their most fundamental level.  Pono is the root of the word Ho`oponopono, and connotes a divine balance in which all things are set right.  This is the state at which ho`oponopono is complete, and the ultimate goal of the process.

 

Because ho`oponopono is traditionally passed down in a familial manner, there are different styles of ho`oponopono in Hawaiian culture.  Many of these styles share certain key stages:  Pule, or prayer, which is essential for opening and closing; kūkulu kumuhana, or the focusing of the group on the issue or the problem (revisit); mahiki, or processing through the different “layers” of relational entanglement that have manifested; mihi, a deep apology and taking of responsibility for one’s role in the problem; kala, or forgiveness; and `oki, or “cutting off” of the problem so that it does not trouble the family further.  Ho`oponopono then closes with pule and the sharing of a ceremonial meal.  

 

As with any healing process, great discernment is needed in order to insure that the ultimate result is the genuine resolution of conflict and the restoration of good relationships between everyone involved.