A basic overview of ancient and modern Druidry. Learn about the history, beliefs and teachings of this Pagan earth-based spiritual practice.
Who were the ancient Druids?
Although there are few surviving sources of information regarding the ancient Druids, it is known that they were a sacred caste among the Celtic tribes of Ireland, Britain and Gaul, or modern France. Their traditions were passed down through oral recitation and dealt primarily with divination, theology, astronomy, healing and other spiritual matters. They were known to be teachers, scientists, philosophers and advisors and held great influence in their society. When the Roman Empire came into power, most of the areas where the ancient Druids were known to be fell under Roman occupation. Because the Druids were such a powerful group they were persecuted by the Romans and as Christianity emerged the teachings and traditions of the Druids were eventually cut off.
What were their beliefs?
The ancient Druids were polytheist which means that they believed in multiple gods and goddesses. They also deified elements of nature such as the sun and stars and greatly venerated natural elements of the earth such as plants, streams, herbs and trees, especially the oak tree.
Their calendar year was linked to the cycles of the sun, the moon and harvest. There is archaeological evidence that suggests the ancient Druids conducted ceremonies to celebrate the two solstices and two equinoxes of each year, known as solar festivals. They also had ceremonies in accordance with the lunar and harvest cycles that included Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh and Samhain.
What does the word Druid mean?
The etymology of the word Druid comes from several sources. The Latin and Ancient Greek word for Druid was druides which is associated with drus, meaning oak tree and ides meaning "the son of" and is related to Aristides. The word Druid can also be traced back to the Celtic word druwid which is derived from deru, which means solid or steadfast and weid, which means "to see". The roots of these words shows the analogies and relationship of strength, wisdom and insight associated with the ancient Druids.
What was the Druid Revival?
The Druid Revival, which began in the 18th century in England and Wales, was begun mainly by the writings of John Aubrey, John Toland and William Stukely. John Aubrey is said to have been the first modern writer to connect Stonehenge with the ancient Druids which in fact is a misconception.
In the late 18th century the Ancient Order of Druids (AOD) was founded and was primarily influenced by Henry Hurle. Hurle’s group incorporated many Masonic ideas, especially those of mutual support and charitable works. Not long after the founding of the AOD, a Welshman named Edward Williams, also known as Iolo Morganwg, published writings that remain influential to the teachings of today’s modern Druidry.
What are the teachings of modern Druidry?
The teachings and practices of modern Druidry are frequently changed and updated as new archaeological research and ideas come to light. But a common bond for all Druidry, both modern and ancient, is a reverence and strong respect for the earth and nature. Almost all modern Druids recognize and revere the spirits of the land and the sacred spirit that flows within all things.
Many modern Druids also hold the similar belief in multiple deities and the celebration of the Eightfold year which, as mentioned earlier, is a celebration of the four solar and the four harvest festivals. As with ancient Druidry, modern Druids believe in the immortality of the soul and reincarnation.. Druidry is not seen as a path of power but rather one of respect, truth and honor. Despite misconceptions to the contrary Druids do not and never have participated in human sacrifice.
What are the different types of Druids?
Druid types or grades are as follows:
The Bardic grade which deals mostly with teaching, creative art, poetry and academic skills.
The Ovate grade which deals mostly with Intuitive and Magical skills.
The Druid grade with deals mostly with public rituals.
There are many different orders of Druids around the world and one may differ from the other depending on the type of order. Some orders focus more on the teaching side while others may focus more on the Magical side or on Ritual. Some modern Druids call their order Celtic Reconstructionism in order to show that what they do is not precisely the same as what was practiced in ancient times. In the United Kingdom one of the oldest Druid organizations is the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids which was founded around 1717. In the United States a well known Druid organization is Arn Draiocht Fein which focuses on the religion of all ancient indo-Europeans.
