Druids refer to an ancient class of Celtic priests, philosophers, and advisers who were an integral part of the pre-Christian religious and cultural traditions of the Celtic peoples. The word "druid" is derived from the Celtic word for "oak," symbolizing their close connection to nature and their reverence for this sacred tree.
As spiritual leaders, druids held significant influence within their communities. They were not only responsible for performing religious ceremonies but also served as teachers, judges, and mediators. Furthermore, druids possessed a deep understanding of the natural world, possessing knowledge of herbal medicine, astronomy, and the cycles of nature. They believed in an animistic worldview, where every element of nature, such as trees, rivers, and animals, possessed a spiritual essence.
Druids played a crucial role in Celtic society, acting as intermediaries between the mortal realm and the divine. They were the ones who conducted rituals and sacrifices, seeking divine guidance and protection. Their rituals were often performed in sacred groves or at stone circles, where they honored the various deities of their pantheon and sought harmony with the natural forces.
Due to the oral nature of their knowledge transmission, there is limited historical documentation about the specifics of the druidic practices. However, references to druids can be found in ancient texts written by Greek and Roman historians, as well as in the folklore and mythologies of the Celtic lands. Today, druidry continues as a modern spiritual movement, drawing inspiration from ancient Celtic traditions and focusing on personal and environmental harmony.
