The importance of mele kahea, and the responsibility of those receiving mele kahea, is seen in different parts of Hiʻiaka's quest to Lohiau. For example, when the chief of Maui denied Hiʻiaka hospitality after she asked for permission to enter his home (through her mele kahea), Hiʻiaka punished him. When the chief was sleeping, Hiʻiaka caught his spirit after it left his body, and killed it (killing him). Therefore, Hawaiians are taught that being on both the giving and receiving parts of oli (chants) require respect and mindfulness of our actions.