The word ahaaina means "to gather for a meal". This is the basis of the modern day luau. By partaking in the feast, the people shared a certain rapport and good will with one another. It was also believed that by offering the ahaaina to the gods, the gap between the mortal and spiritual worlds would be lessened and the gods would be more amenable to man. Thus, the ahaaina was the way the Hawaiians chose to pay tribute. Island alii (royalty) hosted large, lavish Hawaiian celebrations. Families and communities came together to celebrate momentous occasions. Today, the Hawaiian tradition continues. The luau is still prepared by families in Hawaii in celebration of a child's first birthday, a wedding, graduation or any type of celebration.