The honi ihu, or the touching of noses, is a traditional method of greeting one another, whether it’s a man and woman, two men or two women. It allows both people to exchange breath, which is the supremely important life force in Hawaiian understanding, and also share scents and convey a closeness in relationship.

Honi (pronounced HO – nee) is the traditional Hawaiian greeting. The english translation is “to kiss”, but actually, the original greeting was touching forehead to forehead, nose to nose and exchanging breath.

#5: Honi Ihu. This traditional style of greeting involves touching noses. Honi means “to kiss” and ihu means “nose.” This intimate version of “hello” gives the two parties the chance to exchange hā (breath).

2024年8月13日 · The honi ihu is a traditional Hawaiian greeting that holds deep cultural significance. This gesture, also prevalent in other Polynesian cultures, is far more than just a simple greeting; it embodies the essence of life, connection, and respect.

"The honi is a Polynesian greeting in which two people greet each other by pressing noses and inhaling at the same time. This is a very honorific as this represents the exchange of ha--the breath of life, and mana --spiritual power between two people.

2024年2月26日 · The honi ihu, or touching of noses, is a traditional method of greeting one another. Whether it’s a man and woman, two men or two women, both exchange breath, which is the vital life force in Hawaiian understanding.

2019年7月5日 · What is Honi ihu? The honi ihu, or the touching of noses, is a traditional method of greeting one another, whether it’s a man and woman, two men or two women. It allows both people to exchange breath, which is the supremely important life force in Hawaiian understanding, and also share scents and convey a closeness in relationship.

v., To salute by touching noses (the ancient way of saluting among Hawaiians); honi iho la i ka ihu. Laieik. p. 203. 5. v., To kiss; to salute by kissing. To embrace on parting; applied to various forms of salutation and farewell, as good-by, shaking hands, etc.

The honi ihu is also known as the ‘Hawaiin kiss’. Traditionally it involves touching noses or foreheads. Honi ihu means to share breath and symbolizes a close relationship of respect between two people. Native Hawaiians believe that breath is a vital life force and that the honi ihu enables the exchange of breath and scents.

Honi it, or nose touching, is a customary way to welcome one another, whether it's a man and a woman, two men, or two women. It allows both persons to exchange air, which is the most significant life energy in Hawaiian culture, communicate smells, and convey a sense of intimacy in their connection.