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Animal Symbols of the Celtic Druids
Everything in Mother Nature is considered sacred in Celtic Druidry, so every plant, tree, animal, fish and bird is also seen as sacred. In the same way that some trees and plants, such as the oak and mistletoe, received special attention, so to did certain creatures receive special importance in celtic lore and mythology and became famous Irish Symbols.
And according to Celtic lore and mythology, the particular characteristics of different animals were used to symbolise different powers, attributes or gifts. They are often connected with the world of spirits and gods, and their sacred nature is reflected in the hunting tales of celtic shape-changing and celtic magic in these Irish Symbols.
The main Animal Symbols of the Celtic Druids are:
purity / strength / supreme magical power / healing
The salmon was considered by the Celts to be the one of the most ancient and wise of animals. The salmon is the creature that swims in the streams and the pool, and which represents the goal of every Druid – the Salmon of Wisdom...Read More
purity / strength / supreme magical power / healing
One of the most ancient mythological beasts, the Unicorn is a symbol of innocence, purity, healing, joy and life. Having the form of a horse and endowed with a horn, it is also a symbol of...Read More
power / stamina / endurance / faithfulness / balance
A popular totem animal of celtic lore and mythology, the horse was considered to be a faithful guide to the Otherworld and was associated with victory in war. The Horse was sacred to the Goddess Epona...Read More
The Uffington White Horse (above), Britain's oldest and most famous hill figure, is widely believed to be a Celtic symbol representing Epona.
healing / protection / prophecy / vision / power
Although its reputation was sometimes dubious, the Raven was considered an oracular bird, often representing the upsets and crises of life which were deemed necessary for anything new to be created. The Celtic Druids were believed to have the ability to...Read More
artistic inspiration / cunning / introspection / healing
Once common throughout the British Isles the Boar was known to be fearless, cunning, strong and ferocious. To Celtic warriors, therefore, it was the symbol of victory and bravery, and they often wore...Read More
creativity / sensuality / nobility / ferocity / prophecy / protection
The Celts believe the cat brings us to wholeness and acts as a spiritual link between humans and the universe. It is about magic, mystery and being independent. The cat, a creature which combines a...Read More
inspiration / imagination / wealth / power / vitality
The most powerful of all Celtic druid animal symbols, the Dragon represented the whole of creation. The Celts also associated dragons with the elements. Each element is governed by...Read More
purity / strength / supreme magical power / healing
Due to its unique characteristic represented by the cyclical shedding of its skin, the serpent was the Celtic symbol of rebirth and was widely referred as an immortal creature that came to life each year after hibernation, complete with a new skin...Read More
Celtic Cross---Celtic Spirals---Celtic Ogham Alphabet
Celtic Animals---Celtic Magic---Druid History
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