Unverified Photos:  These photos demonstrate this type of rainbow based on the authorʻs understanding of the dictionary definitions, context within some Hawaiian legends, newspaper articles, and Hawaiian language recordings.  They are not definitive.

Signs and omens

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This type of beautiful rainbow is not often seen in Hawaiʻi.  It can be a sign or omen for a variety of things as described below:

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According to the legends  This type of rainbow did not appear in the legends that were analyzed.

When does it appear

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Sometimes, near the summit of Haleakalā, clouds or mists enter into the summit crater.  A person standing at an overlook may see their shadow cast onto the clouds below and completely encircled by a rainbow.  This phenomenon is known as akakū ānuenue.  Some Hawaiians thought it was a blessing to experience it because they believed they were seeing their actual soul (unverified at this time.).

Photo by: Mike7777777 | Dreamstime.com