Celtic Mythology and Belief

In the Celtic world, Belief and Mythology ran side by side. They had equal importance and gave life a structure and purpose much as people need today. The Celtic individual was governed by these beliefs and rules so that order could be imposed on day to day living. Early historians tried to classify the Celts as fierce ignorant savages. They were indeed fierce due largely to their unshakeable belief in the afterlife but they were not barbarians. Their religion was the glue that bonded their society together and their faith in it was as powerful as any religion or ideology current today. Nor were they ignorant, their understanding of the stars, the land and the seas was quite extensive for that time and the wisest individuals were elevated to become leaders and priests (Druids). Their Religion gave life the structure required whilst their Mythology gave the unknown order and reason too. Every unexplainable facet of life (and afterlife) was governed by a Celtic deity.

The Celtic Gods and Goddesses were led by Llew (Dagdá) - the 'Father of the Gods'. The gods were worshipped with festivals marking the changes in the seasons. Some, that haven't been christianized still remain today, such as the 'Obby 'Oss procession through Padstow on May Day - formerly dedicated to the God Bel at the Festival of Beltaine. There are thought to be over 350 deities although many are localized and obscure. Here is a list of the main Celtic Deities:-

Dagdá (Llew, Lugh) - Father of the Gods: normally symbolised by a cauldron;

The Anglo-Saxon Invasion of Britain