The Ins and Outs of Celtic Myths and Beliefs

Scattered throughout the western and centralized sections of Europe, the Celts displayed a wide-range of technological advancements, despite their reputation for being a rather barbaric type of civilization. The Celts were quite prominent during the last part of the first millennium BC. A study of the remnants of early Celtic civilizations shows that many different ethnicities, as well as tribes made up the first gatherings of the civilization.

The more powerful that the Celts became, the more territory they aimed to cover, spreading out about various parts of Europe. If you thought that this weakened their connections with one another as a people, there is evidence that shows that a form of religious speech and communication was used to unite the Celtics with their different groups that moved about Europe. Further connections were made through their religious language and other origins. They shared common trends in their religious traditions, which kept them all grounded to one another.

They also established laws of the land that were similar to one another. When researchers refer to various Celtics in the past, they attach certain letters to specific kinds of language. For example, in Gaul and in Britain, P-Celtic was developed, whereas Ireland showcased Q-Celtic as their language.

When it came to rituals pertaining to religiousness, Celts involved themselves heavily in this sort of practice. This can be viewed in the way that they treated their funerals. Burial rituals were highly festive and elaborate. Held under a mound, deceased people were placed within a wooden chamber that was fashioned from oak. Inside, an array of personal items is included. Weapons were a popular burial item, as well as many different food and drink items. The importance of life after death was stressed within the Celtic civilizations, which is quite similar to the way that Egyptians viewed the afterlife. Personal ornamental items are also added to the deceased, which are thought to give the deceased power in the afterlife.

During the earliest times associated with the Celts, the wealthy were treated to a different type of burial tradition. The bodies of the wealthy dead were spread out on a four-wheeled wagon, which may or may not be burnt, as we have all read of this process. As time passed, a lighter cart that possessed only two wheels replaced the four wheels of the older wagon.

Throughout the realms of Celtic religion, numerous deities played an important role. You may be surprised to find out that many of these deities were female. This can be seen through the worship of mother goddesses, as well as war goddesses. When studying the Mother Goddess of the Celts, you will find that her image was first presented as a warrior, who was equipped with weapons and was often seen as a healthy authority in revealing the ins and outs of warfare that would supposedly aid a hero or warrior in future battles.

For more details pertaining to Celtic beliefs and myths, look forward to additional articles on gods and goddesses, as well as Celtic symbolism.