Pahu

Relic

Lore

A traditional Polynesian log drum

Pahu is a tall, standing drum that Hawaiians regard as both a tangible vessel of mana and the living “voice” of the gods. Carvers take a single section of coconut-palm trunk—or another sacred tree, such as koa or breadfruit—then hollow it out so the walls stay thick enough for powerful resonance. The top membrane, called the waha, is stretched from dried sharkskin; for temple drums the skin of a ray is preferred, underscoring a higher level of sanctity. The head is lashed down with braided ʻaha cord made from olona fiber; while the cord is being woven, priests chant prayers into every wrap, so the binding itself works like a ritual lock that seals in power. Near the drum’s base they carve inverted arches known as hoaka, symbolic “shadows of the gods” that create a constant, unseen shield around the instrument.

One specialized form is the Pahu Heiau—a massive “temple” drum the old Hawaiians set up in worship centers of the war god Kū, where sacrifices, including human ones, were offered.

From Oceanian Bestiary 5E, p. 105 · Fern Flower Press