Kaupe : The Hawaiian Werewolf
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At a glance
| Description | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Polynesian Mythology |
| Classification | Spirits |
| Family Members | N/A |
| Region | Hawaii |
| Associated With | Shapeshifting, Inducing Suicide, Werewolf |
Kaupe
Introduction
In Hawaiian mythology, the malevolent spirit known as Kaupe is known to call out to people at night to scare them into committing suicide. According to legend, he once ruled the Nu’uanu Valley and devoured people on both Oahu and Maui. When he went back to Hawaii, he abducted the son of a high chief and brought him back to Oahu so that he could be sacrificed.
After they reached Oahu, the High chief learned about a Kahuna who taught him about incantations and a prayer he could use against Kaupe, who was chasing them. At the heiau in Lihue, the father saved his son, and when Kaupe chased them with the latter repeating the prayer, causing the pair to run faster. As Kaupe chased them, the father and his son hid behind a rock. On reaching Hawaii, the father and son killed Kaupe. The spirit of Kaupe continues to linger on Oahu.
Physical Traits
The mythological creature is described as an enormous man with large claws and a muscular build. It has tribal tattoos all over its body, and its sharp teeth are used to scare potential attackers and prey. Its sharp teeth are also used to bite the flesh of its prey.
Family
In ancient Hawaii, there was a group of people known as Olohe, who were mostly known for their bone breaking and wrestling skills. Their leader, known as Kaupe, was able to transform into a giant dog due to his powerful powers. He would stalk and kill people until he was killed by the father-son duo. Now, he is known as a ghost dog haunting the islands.
Powers and Abilities
The powerful abilities of Kaupe allow it to overpower its prey and enemies, as well as break through metal cuffs. It can also jump high and smell the scent of its pursuers. Its sense of smell helps it distinguish between potential attackers and those around it. If it scratches a human, it can cause an infection which could never heal leading to death.
Kaupe is often regarded as a calling ghost because instead of looking for his victims, he calls them out. He does this by imitating the sound of dying or wounded people. When his victim runs to the aid of others, Kaupe silently enters the scene and reveals himself.
Modern Day Influence
In the television series Legends of Tomorrow, one of the creatures that can be considered a hairy beast is the Kaupe named Konane.
Related Images
Source
Malo, D. (1951). Hawaiian Antiquities (Moolelo Hawaii). Bishop Museum Press.
Honolulu Star-Bulletin. (1999). Legends of Oahu’s Supernatural Spirits.
Kanahele, G. S. (1986). Ku Kanaka: Stand Tall. University of Hawaii Press.
Bishop Museum: Hawaiian Hall Exhibits. (n.d.). Spirit Legends of Nu‘uanu Pali. Retrieved from https://www.bishopmuseum.org
Hawaiian Dictionary Online. (n.d.). Meanings and Origins of Hawaiian Names. Retrieved from https://wehewehe.org
Beckwith, M. (1970). Hawaiian Mythology. University of Hawaii Press.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does kaupe mean in Hawaiian?
In Hawaiian mythology, Kaupe is a malevolent spirit known as a “calling ghost.” It is said to lure people to their deaths by mimicking the sounds of wounded or dying individuals. Kaupe is often depicted as an enormous man with a canine head and sharp claws, and he is believed to haunt the Nu’uanu Valley on Oahu.
What does the name Kaupe mean?
The name Kaupe comes from Hawaiian mythology, often linked to a fearsome spirit or demigod. In Hawaiian, “kau” can mean “to rest” or “to perch,” while “pe” might relate to sounds or cries. Together, Kaupe is a name associated with supernatural activity. Kaupe is known as a shapeshifter who lures travelers to their doom. This name embodies mystery, fear, and the spirit world in Hawaiian folklore.
Where is Kaupe said to haunt in Hawaiian mythology?
Kaupe is believed to haunt the Nu’uanu Valley on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. This malevolent spirit is known for luring people to their deaths by mimicking the cries of the wounded or dying. The Nu’uanu Valley, with its dense forests and historic sites, serves as the eerie backdrop for many of Kaupe’s tales.
What are the unique characteristics of Kaupe in Hawaiian mythology?
Kaupe is typically depicted as an enormous man with a canine head and sharp claws. This fearsome appearance, combined with his ability to mimic human sounds, makes him a particularly terrifying figure in Hawaiian folklore. He is associated with the supernatural and is believed to have the power to control or influence other spirits.
How can one protect themselves from Kaupe in Hawaiian mythology?
In Hawaiian mythology, it’s believed that chanting specific prayers and invoking protective deities can help ward off malevolent spirits like Kaupe. Maintaining a respectful and cautious attitude while in areas known to be haunted by such spirits is also considered important. Engaging in traditional rituals and seeking guidance from knowledgeable elders are common practices to ensure protection.
