The triskele, or triple spiral, is a tripartite symbol made up of three interwoven spirals that is closely connected to the triquetra. The triple helix is an ancient Celtic sign associated with the sun, reincarnation, and the afterlife. The figure above is from the Neolithic “tomb” at Newgrange, which is thought by some to be … Read more
Samhain is linked to a number of key events in Irish mythology and is said to have Celtic pagan origins. Samhain is a pagan emblem consisting of a looping square and two interlinking oblongs that form a cross. The Bowen knot (also known as St. John’s knot) is the looping square symbol.
Yule is one of these holidays, a pagan festival having Norse and Celtic roots. Yule is a 12-day pagan festival in the Northern Hemisphere that commemorates the sun’s rebirth, which is symbolized by the days growing longer following the solstice. A Yule log is burned as part of the festivities.
Imbolc, also known as Saint Brigid’s Day, is a pagan holiday that commemorates the arrival of spring and is observed from February 1 to 2. For the ancient Celts, Imbolc was a significant cross quarter day. It was a time of renewal and purification, as well as anticipation of the coming summer months. With women … Read more
ostre or Ostara was a goddess of spring who was involved with the spring equinox ceremony. Eggs were employed as a symbol of rebirth and the beginning of new life at this time, while a hare or rabbit was utilized as a symbol of the goddess and fertility.
Beltane is one of the eight Sabbats, and it is a Pagan celebration. Beltane is a Celtic term that means “Bel’s fires.” Bel was most likely a reference to Belenus, the Celtic sun god. The Celts used to ignite two bonfires in the hopes of purifying themselves and increasing their fecundity.
Lammas is the traditional name for August 1st, which falls on the Celtic calendar. Its name comes from an Anglo-Saxon word that means “loaf-mass.” Gule is another name for August 1, which is also the date of the St. Peter’s Chains Festival and the Celtic Lugnasad Festival.
The Malbon or Mabon symbol is a basic design that consists of a stylized “M” with a horizontal line crossing the centre vertical line to form a cross. Mabon ap Modron, also known as Maponus, the sun deity (or god of light) and a hero in Celtic mythology, was given the name “Mabon” in 1970.
The knot is a symbol of eternity and immortality because it has no beginning or end, yet the design of two entwined figures is a symbol of love. Because of its religious origins, the knot is sometimes referred to as the worldwide emblem of faith.
The Bowen knot is symbolic of infinity, love, and flowing water. It is recognized by its several other names such as Saint John’s Arms, Saint Hannes Cross, Gorgon loop or Gorgon’s loop, Johanneskor, hannunvaakuna, and sankthanskor.