Haleakala Sunrise

Maui's highest volcano, Haleakala, translates from the ancient Hawaiian as "House of the Sun." With such a meaning, that amazing sunrises can be witnessed from Haleakala's summit might come as no surprise. Even so, the sunrises themselves continue to surprise and delight day after day.
The sunrises differ somewhat from the sunsets. First, though the island of Hawaii can be seen to the south, there is an absence of islands or any land mass in the eastern direction between the viewer and the rising sun except for the volcano on which one is standing. Islands are often imagined, however: "mirages" caused by the play of ocean, low level clouds, and dawn light. These mirages can look very real. Although posing no problem for the ancient Hawaiians who believed mythical beings moved about on floating islands, the modern viewer must often consult a map before being convinced that the "islands" seen are not really there. Another difference from sunset time is that by sunrise, most of the clouds have settled during the night, especially the higher ones. This, however, is only a tendency. As each day is different, the best strategy for maximizing awe and delight is to leave expectations behind.

In the Far East, climbing a mountain to view the sunrise is regarded as a sacred pilgrimage of sorts. The sun newly arising is associated with beginning, a new start, freshness, dawning of new hope, or even rebirth. Haleakala, in Hawaiian myth the House of the Sun, seems a good place to continue this tradition.

Some of these pictures may invite you to spend a little time with them. If so, clicking on any image will open a larger version in a new window. However, click through them hastily and their power will remain untapped and unrevealed. Rather let the imagination be unleased, transport atop the "House of the Sun," contemplating the significance, power, and majesty of a new dawning day. Perhaps a little Quantum music in the background...