Celtic ornament: history and symbolism - white nephilim. Celtic patterns and their meaning as amulets

Five hundred years BC, as if in contrast to the Greek ecumene, the world of the Celts existed in the south of the European continent in its central and northern parts. Originating in the region of the northern Alps, in a fairly short time the Celts spread across a vast territory that today includes England, Ireland, France, Spain, Belgium and part of northern Italy. Their influence on the world of that time is difficult to overestimate. Suffice it to mention that the famous Gauls who besieged Ancient Rome were precisely a Celtic tribe.

A huge role in the life of the Celts was played by clans, belonging to one or another clan or surname. The life of one person in those days did not mean so much; it was important to feel the involvement and inextricable connection of one’s destiny with the life of the family, which was much more durable than the lives of the people who made it up. We still hear echoes of belonging to a glorious family in the initial letters “Mak” of some Western surnames. MacDonald, MacArthur mean nothing more than “son of Donald” and “son of Arthur”.

Another curious characteristic of the Celts was their almost literally insane belligerence. Often in battles, Celtic warriors were overcome by blinding rage, which made them forget about the danger that threatened a person in battle.

The Celts gave birth to their original culture, but knowledge of the characteristics of this ethnic group and its influence on modern European civilization today is not comparable, for example, with our knowledge of Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome. The Celtic culture was absorbed and, so to speak, digested by the expanding Roman Empire. Only a few places today preserve unique “islands” of the Celtic world, such as the famous hills of Wales in England, the province of Brittany in France and the green island of Erin. The legacy of the Celts is the Irish language, which after a long period of oblivion was restored and is now the official language of Ireland.

Celtic knots and ornaments imitate the weaving of baskets, braids, and fabrics. It is worth remembering that witchcraft work often also resembles weaving - many witches see energy flows as threads and manipulate them. Many Celtic ornaments include images of gods, plants, animals, birds, people, and objects. In order for readers to be able to use these ornaments in practice, I provide below a simple “decoding” of some symbols. It should, however, be taken into account that the Celts believed that the human spirit is a particle of the world Spirit. That through multiple lives, deaths and rebirths, a person goes through the path to divine perfection.

Celtic designs are made up of individual knots. Each knot is created from one single thread - the thread of life. Thus, the knots and ornaments symbolize the Path and are at the same time symbolic maps of the Path. The Celts forbade improving the key details of the ornaments, considering them given by the gods.

Ornaments are widely used in different cultures. In early Celtic culture they are used in stone carving and metalworking. As an art form, Celtic designs reached their apex in early Christian manuscripts created by monks. The monks used ornaments to help the reader in the internal search for spirituality. The most common form of ornamentation in manuscripts is labyrinths. The labyrinth is a symbolic representation of the path of life. Celtic labyrinths lead to the center - the spiritual concentration of living energies. They are a symbol of continuity and express the connectedness of all things in the universe. As a means of meditation, labyrinths indicate the route to sources of Power.

Widely known Celtic crosses often have many similarities in their design with labyrinths. The earliest crosses were simple cross-shaped stones and are found mainly in Ireland and Northern Umbria. The cross itself is a universal ancient symbol of the union of heavenly and earthly forces, masculine and feminine. The ends of the Celtic cross symbolize the endless spiritual expansion of consciousness. The inner circle symbolizes the unification and consolidation of earthly and heavenly forces at the central point, the source of spiritual energy.

The earliest Celtic crosses were flat and unadorned, but later ones were richly carved. Celtic culture apparently owes the creation of more complex ornamental forms of the cross to the Picts, who had a long and complex tradition of stone carving. It is believed that it was the Picts who began to carve large rectangular stones with carefully executed complex crosses on the front surface and richly decorated sides and back sides. At least this type of cross quickly spread throughout Celtic culture, appearing for the first time in Northern Scotland.

There are several examples of such crosses in Britain and Ireland, in particular on the islands of Iona and Islay in Scotland, Kilmalkedar in Ireland and Llanntwith Major in Wales. According to scientists, some of these free-standing crosses are over twelve centuries old. This carving is characterized by an interlocking pattern typical of Celtic culture, images of intertwining spirals and relief elements, the latter apparently acting as symbols of the Sun - one of the main objects of worship among the ancient Celts.

Spirals symbolize spiritual growth. Celtic spirals are usually triple. This demonstrates the threefold nature of the spirit, concentrated in a central point, a focus. The trinity of spiritual nature is expressed by Christians in their divine Trinity.

Classic Celtic braids, perceived as ordinary decoration and edging of complex ornaments, symbolize the Path, earthly and spiritual. The master, creating a pattern to commemorate some act, could put a “record” in the wickerwork not only about how many heroes took part in the accomplishment, what their path was, but also who, what forces helped or hindered the heroes.

Birds are heavenly messengers, symbols of freedom and transcendence, symbols of the spirit freed from earthly ties and communicating with heavenly forces. Returning to earth, they bring the message of the gods - prophecies and instructions. Birds help mortals in their spiritual and earthly journeys. It is worth remembering that in the Russian tradition, a bird hitting a window is a harbinger of the imminent death of someone living in the house. In the Celtic tradition, the raven is a bird of specific omens. Doves are birds of spiritual life, love and spiritual well-being. Pheasants are birds of divination in general; they help diviners. The partridge is a bird of cunning. The duck is a bridge connecting the life-giving forces of earthly waters with the ocean of heavenly forces. The heron is a bird of vigilance.

The hare was a sacred animal of the Celts, a symbol of prosperity, abundance, and a good life. Spiritually, the hare represents the dawn, rebirth, and immortality of the Spirit. This animal is dedicated to the lunar goddesses, rulers and spinners of fate. The hare is a heavenly messenger, a mediator between mortals and gods. But he is also a great deceiver, with the power to transform, change events and things. Loops of hare tracks in the snow were read by the Celts as omens of future events, drawing patterns of fate. Most of all, the hare is associated with Ostera or Esther (Astarte, Ishtar??), the Goddess of Spring, whose celebration of the rebirth of life on April 11 served as the basis for the creation of the Christian holiday of Easter.

The ancient Celts attributed healing powers to snakes. Living in the depths of Mother Earth, they must have knowledge of her magical powers. The serpents bring this knowledge to the surface so that Brigantia, Sironi and other healing goddesses can use it. The water of sacred springs, rivers and lakes is saturated with the life-giving power of the Earth. The undulating movements of snakes and the preference of many of them for wet places obviously connected them with the water element.

Snakes, however, are not only protectors of health, but also symbols of the depths of wisdom. In this capacity they were often depicted on the jewelry of kings and priests. Changing its skin every year, the snake also becomes a symbol of regeneration, rebirth, renewal of vital energy and spiritual resilience.

Lonely, wild, untamed, the deer was the main solar animal of the Celts. The horns, falling and growing again every year, symbolized the sacred Tree of Life, the seat of cosmic forces, the center from which life spreads and renews itself, the source of spiritual rebirth and rebirth. As a symbol of abundance, prosperity and courage, the antlered deer represented the masculine side of the balance of nature and was the sacred animal of the Horned Hunter. The Great Horned One himself often took the form of a white stag. The white deer, the god himself, or his messenger, often serves in Celtic legends as a guide to the hero in his search for the magical.

The horse is a symbol of Epona and Macha, the Celtic goddesses of fertility. These two goddesses patronized stables and all those who worked with horses. As protectors of nature, they allowed mortals to use the land for their needs, but did not allow them to take over too large areas to the detriment of wildlife. To do this, they protected the plowed and cultivated lands, promoting abundance and protecting the harvest. Both goddesses were associated with healing springs, and in such places archaeologists find many carved images of horses. As goddesses of fertility and motherhood, Epona and Macha accompanied and protected mortals from birth to death throughout their lives.

Along the coasts, habitats of the ancient Celts, there are stones with stylized images of dolphins, dedicated to the goddess Nehalennia, “Shower of the Way”. As the Patron Goddess, she gives protection to the traveler both on earthly roads and after death. In addition, she represents the abundance of Mother Earth, ensuring prosperity for people, and is often depicted with the Tree of Life and Horn of Plenty. Along the coasts, habitats of the ancient Celts, there are stones with stylized images of dolphins, dedicated to the goddess Nehalennia, “Shower of the Way”. As the Patron Goddess, she gives protection to the traveler both on earthly roads and after death. In addition, she represents the abundance of Mother Earth, ensuring prosperity for people, and is often depicted with the Tree of Life and Horn of Plenty.

Pisces is a symbol of Higher Wisdom and divination. Sea fish, traveling freely in the depths of the ocean, were once the sacred companions of the Lord of the World Ocean - Liir. Almost no mention of this god has survived. This is the most ancient of the gods, the eldest. The ocean, of which he was the ruler, is not the water that covers most of the planet, but the vastness of the Cosmos. The Earth's ocean only symbolized the vastness of the Universe.
In addition to the fish, Liir was accompanied by an albatross - his sacred bird. The albatross symbolizes the eternal movement towards perfection and the search for divine wisdom.

Various forms of dragons exist in many cultures. The Greek word dragon, according to some sources, means “to see without doubt, clearly.” That is, perhaps dragons are seers of the truth. Dragons are indeed credited with the gift of divination. The winged serpent of the Celts is a Protector Spirit that unites heavenly and earthly forces to create a protective blanket for the Planet. In this role, dragons are guardians of the gates to other worlds, protecting the earth and its inhabitants from the invasion of hostile forces.

They also protect the sources of knowledge and prophetic wisdom from the invasion of the uninitiated. They are often depicted as stylized spirals and labyrinths. Dragon Lairs are sacred places, sources of earth energies and places of gaining spiritual power. Often the sacred stone circles of the British Isles marked such places. In heraldry, dragons symbolize independence, wisdom and leadership.

The sacred tree symbolizes spiritual energy, life and wisdom. Lonely trees had a special meaning for the Celts, being the earthly embodiment of the sacred Tree of Life. The sacred tree and rituals performed in the shade of its crown gave new vitality, longevity, and contributed to spiritual development. This is a symbol of the Earth's generosity. The Tree of Life drinks with its roots the sacred waters of life from the heart of Mother Earth. Opening the branches of its crown in the heavens, it provides a connection between all things, connecting Heaven and Earth. This union creates a sacred place of spiritual power and wisdom, a focal point of the people's strength, a source of magic. Standing stones and stone crosses were often erected near such trees. Subsequently, Christian churches were often built on these places of power.

Leaves, often included in Celtic designs, symbolize the strength of specific tree species and the help of the gods to whom these trees are dedicated. Since the cult of trees was developed and very complex among the Celts, the symbolism of leaves and fruits requires separate consideration.

The Druids of ancient Britain had their own Zodiac, in the center of which was the Moon! It consisted of 13 signs corresponding to 13 trees, and took into account the “yin” or feminine principle that Western astrologers had missed. The Druids divided the solar year into thirteen lunar months with one extra day. Each lunar month was associated with a tree symbol and thirteen consonant letters of the Celtic alphabet, based on the names of trees. This tree alphabet was used as a means of predicting the future. The zodiacal degrees of the thirteenth sign (Elderberry) contain part of the constellation Ophiuchus, located between the constellations Sagittarius and Scorpio. This constellation was discovered by Ptolemy, but was not included in the twelve-sign zodiac constellation belt. In the Celtic horoscope, each “tree” corresponds to an astrological symbol, which, like the Egyptian hieroglyphs, preserves the memory of the race in a compressed form.

Celtic Lunar Zodiac:
Birch: December 24 – January 20
Rowan: January 21 - February 17
Ash: February 18 – March 17
Alder: March 18 - April 14
Willow: April 15 - May 12
Hawthorn: May 13 – June 9
Oak: June 10 - July 7
Holly: July 8 - August 4
Hazel: August 4 – September 1
Grapes: September 2 – September 29
Ivy: September 30 – October 27
Reed: October 28 – November 24
Elderberry: November 25 – December 23

BIRCH. In Celtic astrology, the Sun was identified with the Birch Tree. This tree is the first (with the exception of the mysterious Elder - the last tree of the zodiac) to decorate itself with leaves, marking the beginning of all things. The birch branch was a distinctive sign of young druids or bards, who attached it to their tunics. In the Celtic lunar zodiac, the Nameless Day is located between Birch and Elder, as if between the sentries of the endless cycle of birth and death. Associated with Birch, the White Deer is a character in all Celtic myths, symbolizing the seven-month reign of the solar gods.

ROWAN. The Druids believed that their great invisible god manifested itself in the restless elements of nature and in the electromagnetic forces contained in the phenomenon of lightning. It was believed that rowan trees were not afraid of lightning, and therefore, as protection from evil witchcraft forces, all settlements, secluded crossroads, and also temples were planted with these trees. The Druids believed that every tree had its own spirit or "dryad". The spirit of the mountain ash represented the guardian of secret truths - secrets associated with the immortality and personal freedom of their archetypal gods. In Celtic mythology, the rowan was considered a magical tree, and its bright red berries were considered the “food of the gods”, guarded by a green dragon. Like the forbidden fruit from the Garden of Eden, rowan berries represented magical powers jealously guarded by the Celtic gods. In the Irish myth of Phraot, rowan berries healed the wounded, and each berry eaten added a year to a person's life. The Green Dragon is a powerful Celtic spiral symbol of spiritual development, and in Celtic myths, dragons were also associated with the mysterious energy of the Earth. In ancient Celtic cosmology, the winged serpent Sarf was a coiled serpent star representing the Prime Mover, the first cause of all things. The Celtic name for rowan comes from the word "flame".

ASH. The Celtic name for ash is related to the Irish word for "heaven." In Celtic mythology, ash was considered a witchcraft tree; magic wands were carved from it. The Egyptians called the Celts "rogues of the seas." The Sea Horse, symbolizing the ash tree, is associated with the Celtic ideas of the sea gods as half-fish, half-horse.

ALDER. In Celtic mythology, alder is associated with the ram - a mighty giant and warlike king of ancient Britain. In the ancient myth “The Battle of the Trees,” the alder fights in the front ranks, which speaks of the inherent courage of the alder archetype. In rural Ireland, cutting down the sacred alder tree is considered a crime, and the person who does it is considered responsible for all accidents that occur in the village. The alder dryad is aggressive and can even burn down the house of such a person. The sacred symbol of the Ram was the falcon. The Celts called their kings falcons. The falcon is a prophetic bird, a sign of both victory and death.

WILLOW. The willow tree has an ancient history and is associated with death - willow leaves are found in Megalithic burials and in the tombs of the pharaohs. Witches worshiped willow; in Northern Europe and Greece it was considered, like ash, a witchcraft tree. The Druids considered the willow tree sacred. In their Creation myth, the sea serpent laid two purple eggs, which contained the Sun and the Earth, precisely in the branches of a willow tree. This was the first tree of creation, in whose branches the universe was hatched, which symbolizes both the birth of the cosmos and the beginning of earthly life. Among the Celts, the sea serpent symbolized the power of the Moon over the oceans and its fateful intervention in the life of the human race.

HAWTHORN. The mythology associated with hawthorn evokes associations that are as sacred as they are sad. In Celtic Ireland, it was believed that a person who destroyed a hawthorn exposed himself to the greatest danger, since as a result of this his cattle could die, his children could die, and he himself could be completely ruined. Hawthorn was used during ritual orgies, when the Druids called on the people to imitate the fertile summer.
The “protective” functions of hawthorn are associated with the mythical properties of Vulcan, the blacksmith god, the keeper of heavenly fire, who, according to astrologers, directs the highest energy of the mind. The Celtic bowl symbol is associated with the Celtic skill in metalworking. However, in later Celtic myths, the cup is a symbol of the Holy Grail, with which the divine mystery or source of eternal life is identified.

OAK. The Druid religion was based on the worship of the oak tree, with which all the ancient thunder gods were associated. The oak symbolized the turning point of the year, when the summer Sun rose for a short time in Gwynwyd's Circle to receive divine inspiration. During the seventh lunar month of Oak, the Druids carved a circle on this tree, divided into four equal parts (an ancient symbol of the earth) - it was believed that it would protect the tree from lightning. The Celtic name for oak means "door", implying that doors made of oak are the most reliable defense against evil.

HOLLY. Celtic myths depicted the holly (or holly) as the oak's evergreen cousin. In the Druid lunar calendar, the sacred oak ruled the waxing (light) part of the year, and the evergreen holly ruled the waning (dark) part. In the ritual calendar of the Druids, the Holly King was called the Dark Heir. The Celtic symbol Fire Spear is identical to the Spear of the month of the Heir. The mythical unicorn, symbolized by holly, is a white horse with a spiral horn that resembles a spear. In an esoteric sense, the holly symbolizes the evergreen aspect of the soul, and the oak symbolizes the sacrificial ego. An ancient Welsh poem says that these two trees support a bridge that spans the "Rainbow River", in which the evil of the world dissolves and flows to Gwynwyd.

HAZEL. In the mythology of the Irish Celts, the hazel was a "sacred fort" in which the fairy of poetry lived. According to Irish law, trees were divided into four categories, according to which the punishment for illegal cutting was determined. According to this law, the death penalty was imposed for cutting down only two leader trees - Hazel and Apple trees. Subsequently, this punishment was transformed into a fine of one cow. The ancient name of Scotland, Caledonia, means “hill overgrown with hazel.” Hazel is a symbol of concentrated wisdom in Celtic legends, and by eating the nuts one could learn all one needed about the arts and sciences. (And even now scientists say that hazelnuts and other nuts are the best food for the brain). According to one of the Celtic legends (the saga of Finn), hazelnuts fell into a well and became food for the salmon that lived in it. When Finn caught and ate one of them, he immediately gained wisdom. Therefore, hazel is also called the Tree of Wisdom, and the Celtic symbol “Salmon” represents the prophetic power of knowledge. When Druids were invited to resolve a dispute or apply the law, they brought with them white wands made of walnut - a symbol of impartiality.

GRAPE. Grapes are a very ancient plant; grapes owe their name to the word “twist”, which corresponds to its spiral-shaped shoots. The symbolism of the spiral was a very important part of Druid mysticism. The spiral symbol of the grape signifies the autumnal equinox in their ritual zodiac. In Irish mythology, the White Swan, associated with the month of the grape, became a symbol of the light ancient Celtic gods who "retired" to their underground forts during the autumn equinox. In Celtic mythology, the planet Venus represented a “ray of light” or a “white ghost” associated with the habitat of the soul-wisdom of the ancestors, which in Celtic cosmology was identified with the constellation Cygnus.

IVY. Unlike grapes, ivy is an evergreen plant, symbolizing immortality or the eternal aspect of nature and the human soul. Ivy was revered by the ancient peoples of Asia and Europe and, like grapes, was associated with the god Bacchus or Dionysus, the god of wine and fun. The crowns of Bacchus and Ariadne were woven from ivy, because it was believed that this plant prevents intoxication. Ivy also symbolized blessed strength and everlasting love. In the ritual zodiac of the Druids, the month of Ivy follows the autumnal equinox, which marks the entrance to the Celtic Underworld. The constellation representing this "revolving door" symbolizes the entrance into the world of the Sidhe, or Fairy Folk. Fairies represent the time-warped memory of ancestors and all psychic phenomena associated with the supernatural dimension. They also represent lost souls who cannot reincarnate and yet remain on earth. The butterfly became a symbol of the Fairy Religion. A brooch or badge in the shape of a butterfly was worn as a sign of respect for the spirits of ancestors.

CANE. Since ancient times, reeds have been a symbol of royal power. Perhaps he is the most curious of all the symbols of the Celtic zodiac. Its shoots form dense thickets, and its roots are thick, like a tree. That is why the Celts associated him with a hidden dryad. The main place of Creation was the Celtic Underworld - here was the spiritual kingdom of Annun, in which, in the process of all evolution, earthly life was formed and transformed. The Celts called Annun the “Great Abyss,” which speaks of their connection with the sea, and their nickname “sea people” is read as evidence of their relationship with the Atlanteans.
The history of the reed symbol - the White Hound - is as follows. Pluto, the king of the Underworld, formed a trusting relationship with Arawn, the ancient ruler of Annwn. Celtic Pluto became the ruler of both kingdoms and was considered the savior of the human race. The Celtic symbols associated with the sign of the reed indicate that this god was both a savior and a guardian. Legends say that Pluto met Arawn while hunting, surrounded by a pack of white ghost dogs, and therefore the symbol of the month is the White Hound. In both Egyptian and Greek myths, the entrance to the mysterious kingdom was always guarded by dogs. In Celtic mythology, white hounds represent the guardians of the lunar secrets and the Stone, which symbolized the divine right of the Celtic kings and queens to rule over their people.

ELDER. The elderberry has been shrouded in mystery since the times of the megalith, when an exact image of its leaf began to be carved on tombstones as a symbol of death and, at the same time, rebirth. In the ritual zodiac of the Celts, this stage between life and death coincides with the winter solstice. In the lunar Celtic zodiac, birch and elder stand on opposite sides of the entrance to the underground spiritual kingdom of Annwn (see "Reed"), signifying the descent and ascent of the Sun. The month of the Elderberry symbolizes the imprisonment of the Sun or the solar spirit. This month is associated with Kronos, the ruler of the kingdom of minerals, in which the source of all life and light is imprisoned. Symbolically, the elderberry was depicted as a golden pillar of decay, from which, after a series of transformations, grew a green pillar of birch, associated with the birth of the Celtic solar gods. The summer solstice sign is ruled by Jupiter, whose symbol is the White Horse, and the winter solstice sign Kronos, whose symbol is the Black Horse. The horse, as a symbol of the solstices, was sacred to the Celts; it represented their ancient matriarchal culture.

The cauldron in Celtic mythology is a symbol of inspiration and knowledge, as well as a source of transformative, transformative and regenerative forces. The magic of the Sacred Cauldron blurs the boundaries between man, animal and deity. Any form can transform into any other through this magic.

The Guardian of the Cauldron is Serridwen, the goddess of transformation and metamorphosis. The Celts knew about the immortality of the Spirit and the possibility of its rebirth, both in the physical plane of existence and in the spiritual. Cerridwen's sacred animal was the boar - a symbol of wealth, hospitality and celebration.

The daughter of the Dagda, the father of the gods, Brigantia is a very important deity among the Celts. Brigantia is the solar goddess and her elements are light and fire. Since she is also a Healing Goddess, she is associated with water and snakes. Snakes have secret knowledge, and water is the source of life. Therefore, the sanctuaries of Brigantia are often located near sacred springs. Pregnant women came there to receive the Goddess's help in childbirth.

Many rivers in the Celtic world bear various forms of her name, indicating her connection with water. Being the mistress of all forms of fire, Brigantia patronizes blacksmiths, protects the hearth and punishes with fire. Spiritual light is also her element. Therefore, she is a muse for musicians, poets and all creative people. Her name means brightness, radiance of light.

Twins or a pair are one of the most important symbols of Celtic mythology. This is the union of the male and female principles, giving new lives and maintaining a dynamic balance in nature on the path of evolution. This is a sacred union of heavenly and earthly forces, which gives peace and harmony, blessing to the earth and people. The divine couple represents the duality of nature, a partnership, a unity in which each partner maintains his independence in the overall balance. Symbols associated with the divine couple are a cornucopia, a ladle, fruits, flowers, vessels of wine and animals. All these are emblems of abundance and prosperity. The god Dagda was “responsible” for the cauldron of abundance.

The Celtic protection knot, the meaning of which in fact does not have an unambiguous generally accepted interpretation, nevertheless represents one of the most ancient ornaments of the northern tradition. And although the pattern, which today we call the “protection knot,” was used not only by the Celts, its semantics is usually sought in the culture of this particular people.

The Celts themselves used the “knot of protection” symbol everywhere: it was applied to shields, and similar ornaments were also used in the process of making clothes and building dwellings. In this case, it is important to understand that the Celtic “knot of protection” is not a purely sacred sign. Undoubtedly, this symbol had, let’s say, a special esoteric functionality, but in this case we are talking about ornamentalism, that is, the applied, everyday aspect comes to the fore.

Unfortunately, the Celts did not leave any information that could shed light on the symbolism of this sign. The protection knot, the meaning of which to a certain extent is rightly sought in its name, was clearly a universal symbol. Archaeological finds dating back to the first centuries BC, historical evidence (in particular Roman) and later pictorial sources indicate that the Celtic protection knot was actually used as an ornamental element in everyday life: along with other “knots” it was applied to clothing , it is often found on utensils and jewelry. An important point: there are no specific talismans or single products with the image of a Celtic knot, so any use of this sign in the form of a single amulet is in no way a reconstruction, let’s say, a variation on a theme.

At the same time, it is known that the Celts put a protection knot on their shields, and there is also a mention of tattoos that contain elements reminiscent of a protection knot. The meaning of this symbol for the Celts was of great importance. If such a sign was applied to military paraphernalia and the bodies of warriors, it means that we are talking about some kind of image into which people invested, if not protective, then at least powerful life-affirming promises. The Celts were skilled warriors; their state formations collapsed for a number of reasons, but definitely not due to poor combat training. However, their culture has reached us and many Celtic traditions are preserved in the British Isles in virtually unchanged form.

It is important to note one more point: the Celtic knot of protection (its meaning, by the way, could change over time) was also known to the Scandinavians. The legendary sailors and fierce warriors, the Vikings, also used this sign, but in a somewhat interpreted form. The original Celtic protection knot is a slightly more complex design than the pattern commonly called the "Viking protection knot". Obviously, the Vikings, like the Celts, did not leave any “practical manuals” on their esoteric system, except perhaps the Edda, but in this case this source is useless. The Viking protection knot is found on numerous rune stones, literally “scattered” throughout the European north. In addition, the same symbol, the Viking protection knot, was applied by the stern northern fighters, just like the Celts, to their shields and, probably, to their bodies. As for tattoos, the question is, of course, controversial, because the only documentary source describing Viking tattoos (the works of Ibn Fadlan) does not say anything specific about the symbol that interests us. However, this is more than likely.

It is also curious that there is no clear definition of the etymology of the concept “Celtic knot of protection”. Actually, “Celtic knots” are the name given to the characteristic patterns that were used in the ornaments (domestic and specialized) of this people. The very concept of “protection” in this case is also not a canon, but a purely subjective definition. Probably, the key role here was played by the fact that the sought-after “knot” was applied to shields by the Celts and Vikings.

One way or another, the semantic definition of the Celtic knot of protection is lost over the centuries. It is obvious that the Viking protection knot, the meaning of which is apparently similar to the semantics of the Celtic image, is in many ways a military symbol. Hence the image of protection. On the other hand, both peoples used this sign in everyday life. Actually, this is not surprising, because, for example, the Slavs used swastikas everywhere - they were applied to shields, weapons, household items, and clothing. Probably, the Celtic protection knot (also known as the Viking protection knot in context) really had powerful positive, and most importantly, universal symbolism. And here we again touch upon the great wisdom of our distant ancestors, who left us their messages, wordless, but no less vivid. Especially bright for those who are able to read them.

Hello, dear friends! The ancient world consisted of many civilizations that had their own culture, but for some reason the culture of the tribes called Celts was especially valued. Celtic patterns are still very popular today. They are revered as powerful amulets. Why are the patterns of ancient tribes so attractive?

What do we know about the Celts?

The Celts are a people who lived in the lands of Northern Europe in 500-250. BC era. They inhabited large areas of Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and some lands of Northern France. The ancient Greeks called them Celts.

The warlike people easily seized foreign lands, causing their neighbors an endless series of problems. It is interesting that they fought naked, with only a sword in their hands. They also gained a reputation as bounty hunters for their opponents, who they hanged in plain sight.

The Celts were not only desperate warriors, but also virtuoso craftsmen.

Since the time of their residence, almost no monuments of their culture remain, but archaeologists manage to find jewelry and the famous Celtic crosses, attractive with intricate patterns that never break.

The ancient people did not believe in the finitude of life; people were sure that a person dies an infinite number of times and comes into this world again. Scientists have been trying to unravel the mystery of their symbols for many centuries, but one thing is known - they have a powerful magical meaning. Therefore, if you decide to get a tattoo, you must apply the lines with the greatest precision so as not to harm yourself.

The types of ornaments are striking in their diversity, and each design carries a special meaning and is endowed only with its own miraculous power.

The type of ornament attracts attention - a labyrinth, where all the threads go to the center, which means the attraction of the human soul towards perfection, and the circle denotes the unity of Heaven and Earth. Upon closer inspection, you can see 3 spirals that form a triangle or triskele - a symbol of the unity of the three elements: Air, Water and Fire, as well as joy and prosperity.

By studying the weaves of threads, you can distinguish the figures of animals and birds; each image has its own meaning:

• the heron embodies vigilance,
• partridge - cunning,
• dove - love, spiritual development,
• snakes - wisdom, healing powers, keepers of secret knowledge,
• the hare is a symbol of a comfortable life, immortality, but also deception,
• Pisces is a sign of disapproval.

The magic of Celtic symbols

It is difficult to unravel the mystery of the patterns of the ancient people, to find out what their intricacies mean.

And the disappearance of an amazing people from the face of the earth haunts historians of all times. But contemporaries inherited a valuable heritage - mysterious Celtic patterns.

The famous Book of Kells was created in 800. The medieval manuscript is lavishly decorated with exquisite miniatures and ornaments.

Today, the symbols of the ancient people are used as an amulet or amulet, made in the form of pendants, rings, and necklaces.

All Celtic patterns are not a banal design, each has its own meaning and meaning. Below are thumbnails of the original images.

The Celtic Cross has deep meaning. It is believed that it bestows wisdom, saves from the influence of dark forces, and is a sign of Celtic Christianity.

The fragile butterfly represents the soul, rebirth to life and change.

The tree of life without roots is depicted in the form of hands reaching to heaven. The symbol meant the unity of three worlds: the afterlife, life on earth and in heaven.

The heart is drawn in one continuous line and is the personification of the union of two loving souls.

Trefoil (trixel) has powerful protective powers against evil people, damage, the evil eye, and brings money and good luck in your endeavors.

Attention! When applying a tattoo, the design itself cannot be changed or supplemented, so as not to harm fate. The Thread of Life was given by the gods. Around you can make additions with a horseshoe and other signs of prosperity.

The Celts always have a triple spiral. It means eternity, continuous spiritual growth, harmony between body, spirit and mind.

The Celts believed that if you choose the right ornaments, you can change your destiny.

Men's and women's tattoos

For men, it is better to choose the pattern that personifies courage and determination. For example, dragons mean power, strength.

Celtica in the form of a dolphin is a guide of the soul to the sacred islands, a protector of travelers and sailors.

The powerful symbolism of the Celtic cross can be applied to the arm or back for both girls and men.

Deer means prosperity, masculinity, nobility. The deer was revered as a solar animal and personified with the rebirth of the soul. He sheds his horns (the tree of life), then new ones grow in place of the shed ones.

An image of a fish can be applied to the forearm - a sign of higher wisdom. And also a clover with 4 leaves - a sign of faith, love, hope, good luck. It can be supplemented with money, a horseshoe.

For girls, the image of a dog is suitable - a symbol of fidelity and caution. A dog will protect you from everything unkind and evil.

Girls love to make a butterfly image on their leg or shoulder. Interpretation of the image: rebirth after the most difficult life changes have ended. This is a sign of readiness for a new life, new victories, just as a gentle butterfly frees itself from its cocoon.

The hare brings prosperity, abundance, health, and adds strength to young mothers. A color image of these symbols can be made on the shoulder and forearm.

How to draw a Celtic knot

To join the culture of an ancient people, you can learn to draw a real Celtic knot with a pencil.

We will learn to draw by dots. Let's learn a simple drawing technique step by step.

More difficult to perform Celtic braid. Take a piece of paper from your notebook and draw two dotted lines, as shown in the figure.

Then, from the outer line at the top, draw a long line diagonally towards the center and a short line downwards.

Then draw another layer of “braids”, moving towards the center.

To complete the drawing, the “pigtail” should converge in the center.

That's it, the braid is ready!

Weaving according to ancient patterns

Today, more and more people are interested in weaving protective knots. What are they needed for? A knot consisting of a continuous loop is a talisman against dark forces, as well as spirits that are trying to sneak out from the other world. An ancient powerful amulet can help preserve love, protect from misfortunes, unpleasant events, and difficulties. It helps to overcome obstacles and cope with illness. Helps enhance the best qualities of their owner.

When creating a knot amulet, program it to help yourself, put a piece of your heart into it. It cannot be given as a gift, only inherited.

See how to make a weave - “Celtic love knot”.

A love knot is an amulet to which people have trusted their most secret feelings for many centuries. It has no ends, which is considered the best amulet of love and fidelity of two lovers.

How to tie love knots? When starting to weave this amulet, remember that the exchange of these gizmos is equivalent to the exchange of wedding rings.

This weaving can be taught to children. A child can weave friendship bracelets from regular floss, while adults can use more durable materials, even leather.

Look at the photo, which shows bead weaving in detail.

You can make a magic knot according to the following scheme:

Luck Knot

Tie a talisman pendant that will definitely bring you good luck!

The weaving pattern is very simple, every needlewoman can easily learn it.

Good luck pendant samples

Celtic rings have become fashionable all over the world. A woman's ring can be made of ceramic, metal, bone and stone. They will serve.

Dear friends, you have learned a lot about the ancient culture of the Celts. This knowledge is valuable because it enriches our knowledge of the culture of peoples who lived many centuries ago, and also helps us apply it to improve our lives.

This kind of weaving, when a solid loop is created that has neither beginning nor end, can be called a Celtic knot. Of all the art of the Celts, it is the Celtic knot, the meaning of which for many is still a mystery, that is most famous throughout the world.

What is a Celtic knot?

Celtic weaving, also known as the Celtic knot, is a decorative applied art that is generally believed to have developed under the influence of Christianity. In ancient times, this very weaving was used to decorate the Bible.

In addition, Celtic knots were used to form memorial crosses and precious jewelry. There is a theory that wooden objects and textiles were decorated in this way, but too few examples have survived to this day to be able to say with confidence how widespread such a tradition was.

History of the Celtic Knot

Irish sacred books survive from the seventh century AD. They were already decorated with a Celtic knot. It is believed that the ornament was invented even earlier by Coptic monks, who, in turn, brought its idea from either Syria or Egypt. In any case, the knot passed from the Copts to the Anglo-Saxons, who spread the images throughout Ireland.

Coptic knots, considered the ancestors of Celtic knots, attract attention because of their consistency. They differ from Roman knots and German weaving in the absence of freely hanging ends.

The beauty that conquered the world

Ireland was not the only place where the Celtic knot was widespread; its significance for the cultures of neighboring areas is also great. Weaving quickly gained popularity in Wales and Scotland, and also found its way to Northumbria.

Thanks to the monks of the Celtic Church, especially missionaries traveling to different countries, weaving spread to European countries. The style was adopted some time later by the Vikings. It was from the Celtic knot that the “animal style” so characteristic of the Vikings arose.

Development of the idea of ​​Celtic knots

Over time, images of a variety of animals, mostly fantastic, began to be woven into Celtic knots. This happened under the influence of the cultures of the Picts and Saxons. When the craftsmen and artists of past centuries were able to combine the complexity of knots and the phantasmagoria of imaginary animals, they formed what later became known as “Insular Art” - a unique style of jewelry making and surface decoration, unmatched in both complexity and beauty.

An important law that applies to all Celtic knots: no artist doing work in this genre will leave loose ends hanging. It will either be a spiral, because it is stylized to resemble a part of an animal’s body. A pure knot in Celtic art is infinity in its material embodiment. This is the basic idea of ​​art.

Around the 8th century AD, the Book of Kells was written. To this day, it is the most important source of information about the traditions and patterns of Celtic knots. The book also tells about the various decorative ornaments common among the Celts. The paintings collected in the Book of Kells are incomparable in their beauty to any other applied art.

Giraldus of Cumbria, a scientist who lived in the 13th century, stated: The Book of Kells is a gift to people from angels. Much later, the famous modern author Umberto Eco expressed the opinion that the Book of Kells is nothing more than the fruit of hallucinations.

Recent decades have been characterized by a surge of interest in Celtic culture in general and the arts and crafts in particular. Of course, Celtic knots immediately came out on top. True, the samples that are created these days are nothing more than copies of truly real historical works. However, there are several artists who have approached the issue thoroughly - guided by information about previous technologies that have survived to this day, they create more and more new patterns, complex, striking the imagination with their beauty.

Subtleties of Celtic knot meanings

Nowadays, the issue of the symbolism of the Celtic knot has become very complex. It is difficult to determine what the real significance is - this requires serious archaeological research. Probably, a lot can be learned from those church books that were customarily decorated with Celtic knots. There is an assumption that the continuity of the loop is a reference to eternity. All elements of the product are dependent on one another and, probably, this also refers to the ideology of Christianity: help your neighbor.

Another theory says that Celtic knots were woven to protect against evil forces and spirits from the other world. When human figures or silhouettes of phantasmagoric creatures were woven into the knots, this was probably supposed to reflect the interconnection of all living things. If two or more knots were woven, this reflected the connection between the divine and the human.

Sometimes knots were woven to forever tie two people in love, and special motifs were made for hunters so that they would return only with prey. Of course, there were Celtic amulets. These were believed to be very powerful amulets. Needless to say, to this day many sincerely believe in this.

If you study modern editions of the New Testament, you will notice: here and there there are pictures of supposedly Celtic knots. You should not pay much attention to them; such samples do not carry any meaning. These are just decorative elements.

The Celts remain in the distant past, and this makes it difficult to understand their art. Today, only archaeologists and symbolic scientists can unravel the symbolism of knots. Those Celtic symbols that have survived to this day are interpreted by people completely differently, not in the same way as the ancient people themselves perceived them. This is not surprising, because the realities of life have undergone significant changes.

Meanings: general rule

A general rule has been developed to help understand the meaning of Celtic knots. It cannot be said that it works in 100% of cases, however, it almost always works, especially if the knot is relatively simple.

The shape of the picture is what first lifts the veil of secrecy and explains the Celtic symbols. If some animal is woven into the knot, this means that the creator wanted to convey a trait, a sign that is most characteristic of this creature.

The circle in the Celtic knot is intended to represent the idea of ​​unity and eternity. Rebirth and the endless cycle of life are depicted as a spiral. To depict the sea, the greatness of heaven and earth in a knot, the Celts resorted to triangles and trefoils. The protective functions were carried out by square and rectangular elements of the pattern. To reflect the close relationship between nature and man, figures of people and animals were woven.

What is a Celtic amulet knot?

The most famous amulet based on the Celtic knot is the Taliesin knot. It received its name from the name of a bard who lived in the 6th century and was known for his prophetic abilities. Taliesin was a druid, and therefore the knot named after him helps to reveal talents and abilities for mysticism, and also protects against black magic, hostile witchcraft and demons. A talisman depicting Celtic symbols will help you discover the truth, cope with your fears and find the path to omniscience.

The Big Knot is also known. Such an amulet was supposed to protect a person. The influence of the amulet is strongest in interpersonal relationships, and only good ones. The Celtic knot is very different from the Gordian knot, since it is impossible to cut, much less untie, the weaving. It is equally impossible to comprehend infinity or to dominate eternity. But the amulet based on the Celtic knot shows that you can forever connect yourself with infinity.

The main purpose of an amulet with a Celtic knot is protection from unpleasant events. The amulet protects from difficulties and helps to overcome obstacles; it can help cope with an illness or enhance certain personality traits of its owner. A Celtic knot made from cord is usually made by an expert in knot magic, a sorcerer or a healer. Sometimes a person weaves Celtic knots for amulets for himself.

When creating a knot amulet, you need to correctly program it to help yourself, subjugate it and put a piece of yourself, your will, into the amulet. Only then will it work. You cannot give an amulet knot as a gift, but you can inherit it. If you really want to give such a gift, you can give a blank, which the person can then customize for himself. However, if you give a ready-made amulet, it can become a talisman for good luck.

What is a Celtic Love Knot?

The Celtic love knot is an amulet that people have trusted with their deepest feelings for many centuries. This talisman is a symbol of the unity of two hearts. It has become widespread in different cultures, and today the Celtic love knot can be found almost all over the world. Endless hopes, the interweaving of feelings and faith, the confidence that love will never end - all this is embodied in the endless Celtic love knot. It helps two lovers link their lives forever; it can become an oath of fidelity for them.

Knots were very important in Celtic magic, and the love knot was especially highly valued. Its use in love magic was characteristic not only of the Druids of the 6th-8th centuries, it has survived to this day. A powerful egregor still has power today, because people’s ability to love has not decreased.

A closed knot of love has no end or beginning, symbolizing the fact that love is changeable, diverse, it changes smoothly and changes people, connecting them with each other. The essence of the Celtic love knot is to create the most favorable situation for two soul mates. Two people decide their destiny, create a path in life, guided not only by their passions, but also by God’s providence, and the harmony and symmetry of the love amulet helps them in this. Smooth Celtic weaving excludes any manifestation of destructive chaos.

Exchange a Celtic love knot - imprint your feelings on heavenly tablets. This ritual is no less important than, say, the exchange of wedding rings.

What can you use to make a Celtic knot?

Celtic knots can be made from a variety of materials. If these are decorative patterns for decorating expensive books, for example, the Bible, then they can be woven or woven from a thin cord. This is how you can make a bookmark for a book.

If we are talking about an amulet, amulet or decoration, the Celtic knot can be made from a variety of materials. For example, a Celtic beaded knot is considered a popular decoration these days. Besides:

• tree;
• metal;
• wool.

Of course, it is better to use completely natural materials. However, if a child wants to weave a friendship bracelet with the image of a Celtic knot, ordinary floss threads will suit him. In general, the choice of material remains entirely at the discretion of the one who decided to make a Celtic knot or an ornament stylized as Celtic knots.

Celtic knot weaving patterns

Would you like to make a Celtic knot? The weaving pattern is here.

Weaving a Celtic knot from beads:

You can also weave a Celtic knot according to this pattern:

Good luck in creating unique ornaments!

Our ancestors believed that in the entire universe there is no force more powerful than love. The ancient Celts also agreed with this. It was they who created the unique amulet Celtic Love Knot, which unites within itself the unity and inseparability of two loving hearts. Love is multifaceted and endless in its “chaotic movement.” Such a message is hidden in this amulet. Despite everyday problems, the Celtic Love Knot will help you find among thousands of people the only one with whom fate is destined to create an unbreakable family union for the rest of your life. This talisman is universal - suitable for women and men.

Description and meaning

According to ancient ideas, it is in the human heart that the meeting and unity of two principles takes place - the bodily and the Divine. For this reason, true Love arises and “burns” with fire inside each of us. The Celtic Love Knot amulet will not teach you to love if there is emptiness in your soul - it will only strengthen the sincere feelings that you will experience for the chosen one of your hand and heart. The amulet indicates the spiritual union of two souls and helps lovers maintain passion and desire throughout their lives. The Celtic love knot carries the idea of ​​continuity. If both of a couple wear a silver talisman, no one will be able to separate them.

This ancient symbol harmoniously combines three important components of every person: mind, body and spirit. In essence, this ornament is a closed loop, symbolizing the connection between life and eternity. The Celtic love knot is associated with a journey through life through a series of changes and intricate labyrinths of events. The trefoil or trixel symbolizes the unity of three elements: Earth, Water and Fire. The ancient Celts believed that this sign was endowed with powerful protective properties and also attracted money and good luck. Wearing this amulet, a person will not only meet his soulmate, but will also be in an unbridled search for truth, learning the hidden facets of his own personality.

Scope of application

A person’s entire life is an interweaving of destinies, actions, thoughts and roads. Finding your happiness in this chaos is sometimes very difficult. This is why the Celtic Love Knot was created. It brings two lonely hearts into a single whole, protects love relationships, and gives protection from infidelity. If you are rushing between two partners, unable to decide who to give preference to, a silver amulet will help you make the right decision. The Celtic Love Knot is ideal as a wedding gift as it symbolizes everlasting and faithful love. The talisman will also help revive relationships that are on the verge of breaking (provided that the feelings between lovers are sincere). You can buy the Celtic Love Knot amulet in our online store.