Can you share some funny ancient Hawaiian stories?

Sure. There was a story about a Hawaiian surfer who thought he saw a mermaid while out on the waves. Turns out it was just a very shiny fish and his over - excited imagination. He told everyone in the village about his 'encounter' and became the butt of many jokes for a while.

There's a story about a haunted plantation house in Hawaii. People who have visited or worked there reported strange noises, like the creaking of old floorboards when no one was around. Objects would mysteriously move, and there were sightings of shadowy figures. It was as if the house held the tortured spirits of those who had once labored there under harsh conditions.

Maui is a main character. He's a demigod known for his adventures like trying to lasso the sun.

There's a story of a Hawaiian girl, Malia. She found a little injured bird near the forest. Malia took care of the bird until it was well. In the process, she learned a lot about the local plants that could be used for healing. This story is often told to teach kids about kindness and nature. Hawaiian kids grow up hearing such tales that are full of life lessons.

Another spooky story involves the Lady in White. She is often seen near old Hawaiian plantations or in certain valleys. It is said that she was a woman who died in a tragic way, perhaps a broken heart or a violent death. Those who have seen her describe her as a pale figure, wearing a white dress, and she sometimes appears to be looking for something or someone. She gives off an eerie feeling, and her presence is often associated with a cold chill in the air.

There's also the story of the Mo'o. The Mo'o is a lizard - like water spirit. In some tales, it can take on human form. There are stories of Mo'o living in certain water bodies in Hawaii. For example, a Mo'o might be associated with a particular waterfall or pool. If people disrespect the area or break taboos related to the water, the Mo'o might cause trouble, like making the water turn murky or causing misfortune to those who visit.

The story of King Canute is also interesting. His courtiers flattered him, saying that he was so powerful that he could command the tides. So the king went to the seashore and ordered the tides to stop. Of course, the tides didn't listen. He then used this to teach his courtiers a lesson about the limits of power.

The significance lies in their ability to create a sense of identity. By listening to these stories at bedtime, children in Hawaii grow up with a strong connection to their land and people. These stories are filled with unique characters and events that are specific to Hawaiian history and mythology, which helps in keeping the culture alive and relevant.

I'm not specifically familiar with 'madan pala' Hawaiian ghost stories. However, in Hawaiian culture, there are many ghost stories often related to the spirits of ancestors or the supernatural beings that are part of their mythology. For example, the Night Marchers are a well - known entity in Hawaiian lore. These are said to be the ghosts of ancient Hawaiian warriors. They march at night with torches and drums, and it's considered very bad luck to encounter them. But I'm not sure if these are related to the'madan pala' stories you mentioned.

Well, at Iolani Palace, there are tales of ancient Hawaiian royalty's spirits. Some claim to have felt a strange presence, perhaps the ghosts of those who once ruled from that very place. It's a place full of history and mystery, and these stories add to its allure. The spirits are said to be guarding the palace and its secrets.