Ho'oponopono (ho-o-pono-pono) is an ancient Hawaiian practice of reconciliation and forgiveness. Similar forgiveness practices were performed on islands throughout the South Pacific, including Samoa, Tahiti and New Zealand. Traditionally ho'oponopono is practiced by healing priests or kahuna lapa'au among family members of a person who is physically ill. Modern versions are performed within the family by a family elder, or by the individual alone.