Namaka

Namaka, Ocean Goddess, is the child of Haumea and Ku and is volcano goddess Pelé’s older sister. Conflict with Namaka was the primary reason for Pelé’s migration to Hawaii. Tahiti, their birthplace, wasn’t big enough for both these powerful, turbulent goddesses. Different reasons for the bitter conflict between the sisters are offered:

• They may have quarrelled over a lover.

• Pelé may have seduced Namaka’s husband.

• Namaka’s beloved dog may have had an unfortunate encounter with fire, leaving the water goddess bitterly hostile to fire deities.

• The two sisters may just be elementally incompatible.

Pelé’s departure failed to satisfy Nam aka, who pursued her kid sister from island to island, extinguishing all her fires and threatening Pelé. Namaka’s name means “eyes,” and she kept those eyes fixed on Pelé, who finally reached safe haven in Hawaii. Needless to say, the two sisters cannot safely share altar space together. They will fight and compete with each other via fire and water. In general, Namaka manifests anger through tidal waves.

ORIGIN:

Polynesia

SEE ALSO:

• Haumea
• Kapo
• Ku
• Pelé
• Poliahu

SOURCE:

Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses – Written by Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.