Druids and Druidry
Some thoughts and challenges ahead of our July moot.
Druids and Drudry
Ok, for those of you familiar with the Spinal Tap “mock” Rocku-mentary, the mention of Druids may well bring to mind this sequence. The reason for the minuscule Stonehenge monument will be known to those who have seen this film; however, I share it here because of the popular link often made between sites such as Stonehenge and the Druids. Of course, these Neolithic sites and the Druids are not contemporaries.
Archaeological work indicates that Stonehenge was constructed between roughly 4,000 and 5,000 years ago, while the earliest surviving written record of the Druids dates back about 2,400 years. So, whilst this group known as Druids may have utilised such sites, they did not have any link to their construction.
But, the question is, who were, and indeed who are, the Druids.
What We Really Know About the Ancient Druids and Their Practices
The ancient Druids have long captured the imagination of historians, archaeologists, and the general public alike. Often romanticised as mystical figures wielding profound wisdom, practitioners of nature-oriented spirituality, and custodians of ancient knowledge, the reality of Druid life in Iron Age and early medieval Britain and Gaul remains shrouded in uncertainty.
While various literary and archaeological sources shed some light on their beliefs and practices, most of what we know comes from fragmented evidence, often colored by the perspectives of contemporary observers. This essay aims to unravel the threads of fact and myth surrounding the Druids and clarify what is genuinely known about their practices.
As in the Spinal Tap song:
Nobody knows who they were or what they were doing!
Historical Context
Druids were part of the social and religious fabric of Celtic societies in Europe, particularly from around 500 BCE to the Roman conquest of Gaul in the 1st century CE.
They were revered as priests, scholars, and judges and held significant influence within their communities. However, there are no known written records authored by the Druids themselves, as they adhered to an oral tradition. As a result, most of our knowledge about them comes from external sources, including the accounts of Greek and Roman historians such as Julius Caesar and Tacitus, whose narratives often contain biases stemming from their cultural contexts.
The Roman perspective on the Druids was often negative, framing them as barbaric and superstitious. In Caesar’s Commentarii de Bello Gallico, for instance, he describes Druidic practices, including human sacrifices; however, his accounts are often viewed as politically motivated, aimed at justifying Roman imperialism rather than providing an accurate ethnography of the Celtic tribes. As such, discerning their actual practices from these historical texts poses a challenge.
Religious Beliefs and Practices
Druids were primarily known for their religious roles, facilitating rituals, sacrifices, and spiritual ceremonies. They reportedly worshipped a pantheon of deities associated with nature, fertility, war, and the afterlife. Sacred groves, often regarded as the heart of Druidic worship, were integral to their spiritual practices, as trees held great symbolic significance in Celtic culture.
These natural settings provided a direct connection to the divine and were often used for rituals that celebrated seasonal cycles, such as solstices and equinoxes.
Archaeological evidence, including megalithic structures such as Stonehenge and burial mounds like Newgrange, has been interpreted as having Druidic significance. However, the exact relationship between these structures and Druidic practices remains a topic of debate among scholars. These monuments may have served as ceremonial sites or astronomical observatories, suggesting that the Druids possessed advanced knowledge of the heavens and natural cycles. We must remember, however, that these sites were built long before the Druidic tradition emerged, further complicating the attribution of their significance.
One of the more contentious aspects of Druidic practice is the notion of human sacrifice. While Caesar was among those who claimed that the Druids engaged in such rituals, the evidence remains inconclusive. Some modern scholars argue that while ritual sacrifice may have occurred, it was not the prevailing aspect of their religious life. Instead, the focus may have been more on offerings of fruits, animals, and other items deemed valuable. Furthermore, the absence of concrete archaeological evidence to corroborate claims of widespread human sacrifice adds another layer of ambiguity to our understanding.
Education and Knowledge
Druids were also viewed as custodians of knowledge, responsible for preserving the oral traditions of their people. They were said to undergo rigorous training that lasted years, during which they memorized vast amounts of lore, poetry, laws, and mythology, a process that further highlights the importance of orality in their culture. This educational aspect is corroborated by some ancient writers who depicted Druids as philosophers and learned men, well-versed in a range of subjects from astronomy to ethics.
The lack of written records remains a significant barrier in reconstructing their knowledge system. While some scholars have speculated on the content of Druidic teachings, such as their understanding of the cosmos and the human condition, much of this remains speculative and drawn from indirect sources. The limited archaeological findings, predominantly consisting of tools and artifacts, do little to illuminate the intellectual landscape of the Druids.
Social and Political Role
In addition to their religious duties, Druids served crucial social and political functions within their communities. They acted as mediators in disputes, advisors to chieftains, and even participants in warfare strategies. Their dual role as spiritual leaders and political figures suggests a deeply interconnected relationship between religion and governance in Celtic society. The Druids' influence likely extended beyond the mere facilitation of rituals; they played a key role in maintaining social order and cohesion, especially during times of conflict.
The decline of Druidic practices coincided with the Roman conquest and the subsequent spread of Christianity, which saw the systematic dismantling of traditional beliefs. As the new faith took root, the Druidic traditions faced persecution and suppression, leading to a significant loss of knowledge and practice. The new religious order deemed the Druidic ways as pagan and often sought to eradicate any remnants of their influence. This cultural shift led to the gradual decline of the Druidic class, and many of their teachings and rituals were lost to history.
However, the legacy of the Druids has not disappeared entirely. Elements of their practices and beliefs have persisted in various forms throughout the centuries. In the medieval period, the romanticised image of the Druid re-emerged through literature and folklore, shaping the imagination of later generations. This revival was particularly influential during the Romantic movement of the 18th and 19th centuries when nature worship and the spiritual connection to the earth gained renewed popularity.
Modern Druidry
In contemporary times, a movement known as Neo-Druidism has emerged, drawing inspiration from the ancient Druids. Though it is rooted in modern interpretations rather than direct lineage, Neo-Druidry seeks to connect with nature, promote spiritual growth, and emphasise ecological responsibility. Practitioners often celebrate seasonal festivals, engage in rituals that honour the earth and its cycles, and explore the philosophical aspects of Druidic thought.
However, it is crucial to differentiate between the historical Druids and their modern counterparts. While Neo-Druidism may draw on themes of Celtic spirituality, much of its practice is informed by contemporary ideologies rather than the ancient practices of the Iron Age Druids. Thus, modern interpretations can reflect a blend of ancient influences, personal beliefs, and cultural contexts that may diverge significantly from historical knowledge.
Doing it the way the Ancients did - Making it up as we go along
Reformed Druids of Gaia
Iolo Morganwg and the Creation of the Modern Druid Tradition
The modern Druid tradition, with its rich blend of spirituality, reverence for nature, and cultural heritage, owes much to the vision and literary prowess of Iolo Morganwg (1747-1826), a Welsh poet, antiquarian, and philosopher.
Morganwg’s impact on the modern interpretation of Druidism extends beyond mere revival; he effectively synthesised ancient Celtic traditions with contemporary thought, laying the groundwork for what many today recognise as a neo-Druidic movement.
Historical Context
By the late 18th century, Britain was grappling with the effects of the Enlightenment and the Industrial Revolution, leading to a burgeoning interest in nature, folklore, and national identity. The Romantic movement, which emphasised emotion, nature, and the sublime, provided fertile ground for a reassessment of the past, including the ancient customs and beliefs of the Celts. In Wales, where Morganwg was born, a growing romantic nationalism emerged that sought to revive the Welsh language and culture. Against this backdrop, Morganwg emerged as a pivotal figure aiming to reclaim and reinterpret Druidic identity for contemporary society.
Iolo Morganwg: The Poet and Antiquarian
Morganwg was not just a poet but also a self-proclaimed antiquarian and a key figure in the establishment of the Gorsedd of Bards. This poetic assembly celebrated Welsh culture and language. His most significant contribution to the modern Druid tradition stemmed from his works, which intertwined poetry with ideas of spirituality and ethos attributed to ancient Druidism. There was a lot of “stuff” he made up. Still, he produced a wealth of writings, including poems, essays, and philosophical treatises that fabricated a new narrative about Druids that appealed to the Romantic spirit of the time.
One of Morganwg's most notable achievements was his claimed discovery of ancient texts and practices that he attributed to the Druids. However, many of these were later deemed to be products of his imagination. Nevertheless, these writings helped to shape a romanticised view of Druidism that emphasised a connection to the earth, nature's beauty, and the spiritual insights of ancient wisdom. His use of the Druidic identity not only appealed to a thirst for knowledge about one’s roots but also provided a sense of continuity in an increasingly industrialised world.
The Gorsedd and the Druid Revival
The Gorsedd of Bards, founded by Morganwg in 1792, was instrumental in formalising a connection between poetry, music, and the ancient Druidic tradition. This gathering of poets and artists was not simply an artistic endeavour; it was imbued with a sense of cultural revivalism that echoed the broader Romantic movement. The Gorsedd provided a platform for celebrating Welsh heritage, and it positioned Morganwg as a central figure within this burgeoning cultural renaissance.
At the Gorsedd ceremonies, Morganwg introduced a system of awards and honours designed to celebrate achievements in poetry and literature, integrating elements associated with Druidic practices. He emphasised the importance of the natural world, the cycles of life, and the spiritual significance of place—ideas that resonate with both the ancient Druids and modern environmentalist movements. Through these gatherings, he fostered a sense of community and identity that drew on historical and mythical connections to ancient Celtic culture, enabling individuals to explore their cultural narratives in a contemporary context.
Philosophical Contributions
Morganwg posited that the Druids were not merely priests, but also philosophers, scientists, and custodians of knowledge, whose wisdom was rooted in a profound understanding of the cosmos and the natural world. This notion appealed to those who were disillusioned with the rigid rationalism of the Enlightenment and sought a more holistic and intuitive understanding of existence.
His writings advocated for a spirituality that was both personal and communal, emphasising the interconnectedness of all living things. Morganwg's belief in the divine presence within nature laid the groundwork for contemporary eco-spirituality, where reverence for the earth is seen as a vital aspect of spiritual practice. Furthermore, his ideas prompted a re-examination of moral and ethical values based on natural law, suggesting that individuals could derive guidance from observing the natural order.
Legacy and Influence
Morganwg's legacy is profound and multifaceted. He not only revived interest in Druidism but also significantly influenced later movements, including the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids (OBOD), founded in 1964, and various neo-Druidical organisations that emerged in the 20th century. Through these groups, Morganwg’s vision continues to resonate, providing a framework for spiritual seekers who are drawn to the mysteries of nature and the wisdom of the ancients.
Ross Nichols and the Rise of Modern Druidry
The resurgence of interest in Druidry in the 20th century can largely be attributed to the efforts of key figures who sought to revive and recontextualise ancient practices for contemporary society. Among these figures, Ross Nichols stands out as a pivotal influencer in the modern Druidic movement. His life and work not only contributed to the preservation of Druidic traditions but also helped shape a new understanding of spirituality that resonated with the ideals of the modern age.
Early Life and Influence
Ross Nichols, born in 1902 in London, came from a background that was rich in artistic and intellectual influences. Educated in Classical and English literature, Nichols developed a deep appreciation for nature, mythology, and the spiritual dimensions of the human experience.
His early exposure to various spiritual and philosophical traditions, combined with the tumultuous backdrop of the early 20th century, including two world wars, prompted him to seek a form of spirituality that could provide solace and meaning beyond the confines of mainstream religion.
Nichols's journey into Druidry was fueled by the burgeoning interest in Celtic mythology and folklore during his time. This cultural revival was marked by a growing discontent with industrialisation and the alienation that accompanied it. In this context, Nichols found inspiration in the rich tapestry of ancient Celtic traditions, which emphasised a profound connection to the earth, the cycles of nature, and the communal aspects of spirituality.
The Establishment of the Order of Bards, Ovates, and Druids
In 1964, Ross Nichols founded the Order of Bards, Ovates, and Druids (OBOD), which played a crucial role in formalising modern Druidry as an organised spiritual practice. This was a significant departure from earlier interpretations of Druidry, which often lacked cohesion and recognised diverse practices that varied widely among individuals and groups. OBOD sought to create a structured, yet flexible framework that allowed practitioners to explore their spirituality while remaining grounded in the historical and cultural roots of Druidism.
Nichols envisioned Druidry not only as a religious or spiritual path but also as a means of fostering environmental stewardship and ecological awareness. He believed that the principles of Druidry could guide individuals toward a more harmonious relationship with nature, an idea that resonates deeply in today's discussions of sustainability and conservation. By emphasising the sacred relationship between humanity and the natural world, Nichols offered a model of spirituality that encouraged a holistic understanding of existence, blending reverence for nature with personal growth.
The Influence of Literature and Mythology
In addition to establishing OBOD, Nichols was a prolific writer and poet, using literature as a vehicle to transmit Druidic teachings and values. His works, including "The Book of Druidry" and numerous essays, explored the myths, symbols, and philosophies associated with Druidry. Through his writings, Nichols highlighted the importance of stories and myths in shaping individual and collective identities. He believed that by reconnecting with these ancient narratives, contemporary practitioners could find guidance and inspiration in their own spiritual journeys.
Nichols's emphasis on storytelling mirrored the oral traditions of ancient Celtic societies, where knowledge was passed down through generations in the form of tales and songs. He encouraged his followers to engage with these stories not only as historical accounts but as living narratives that could inform their understanding of the world and their place within it. This approach allowed Druidry to maintain a dynamic quality, adapting to the needs and values of new generations while remaining anchored in its rich heritage.
Cultural and Environmental Activism
Underlying Nichols's vision for Druidry was a profound sense of responsibility for the earth and its inhabitants. He recognised that the disconnection from nature fostered by modern civilisation posed significant threats to both the environment and individual well-being. In light of this, Nichols promoted Druidry as a path that combines activism with spirituality.
Through OBOD, he encouraged members to engage in activities that supported ecological sustainability, championing initiatives like tree planting, conservation efforts, and community-building projects. Nichols's belief that personal spiritual growth could be intricately connected to broader societal change laid the groundwork for the eco-Druidism movement that has gained momentum in recent decades. Today, many modern Druids see their practice as not only a personal journey but also a collective responsibility to advocate for ecological justice and empower communities to live in harmony with the earth.
The Legacy of Ross Nichols
Ross Nichols passed away in 1975, but his legacy continues to inspire individuals drawn to Druidry and its principles. The structure he established within OBOD has enabled a thriving community of practitioners worldwide, spanning diverse cultures and backgrounds. Nichols's work has also sparked a resurgence of interest in Celtic spirituality and earth-based traditions, leading to the growth of diverse groups and organisations committed to exploring these ancient practices.
In addition to revitalising Druidry, Nichols's emphasis on the importance of personal experience and interpretation has led to a pluralistic approach within the community. This inclusivity has enabled individuals to express their spirituality in ways that resonate with their unique backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences. As a result, modern Druidry has evolved into a vibrant tapestry of beliefs and practices, encouraging creativity and personal exploration alongside traditional teachings.
Nichols's vision for Druidry encompassed not only spiritual exploration but also the fostering of a sense of belonging and community among practitioners. He championed ceremonies and gatherings that celebrated the cycles of nature, such as the solstices and equinoxes, which continue to be observed by modern Druids today. These gatherings not only serve as important markers of time but also reinforce the bonds between practitioners and deepen their collective understanding of their relationship with the natural world.
Nichols's influence extends beyond the confines of Druidry itself. His ideas about nature spirituality have permeated various facets of contemporary culture, including environmental movements, literary works, and even popular media representations of ancient and earth-based spiritualities. As issues like climate change and ecological degradation gain prominence in public discourse, the principles that Nichols espoused—such as reverence for nature and the interconnectedness of all life—resonate with a growing audience seeking meaningful ways to address these challenges through a spiritual lens.
We could go into detail about the numerous Druid Orders that currently exist. I have been a member of several, including OBOD and BDO, and can attest to the transformative nature of their teachings. I also hold the title of Arch-Druid within a lesser-known Order, which, for reasons I hope will become clear, speaks directly to many on a spiritual path.
The Reformed Druids of Gaia and "A Stranger in a Strange Land"
In the rich tapestry of contemporary spiritual movements, the Reformed Druids of Gaia (RDG) stand out for their unique blend of earth-centred spirituality and a deep appreciation for literature, particularly science fiction.
.One foundational text that has influenced RDG philosophy is Robert A. Heinlein's groundbreaking novel, "A Stranger in a Strange Land."
Understanding the Reformed Druids of Gaia
Founded in the late 20th century, the Reformed Druids of North America and the Reformed Druids of Gaia emerged from a desire to marry ancient druidic practices with a modern ecological consciousness. The Reformed Druids do not adhere to a singular dogma; instead, they embrace a diverse array of beliefs centred around reverence for nature, the importance of community, and personal spirituality. They often conduct ceremonies in natural settings, emphasising a connection with the Earth, the cycles of life, and the importance of sustainability.
The RDG's philosophy encourages its members to seek their spiritual paths while fostering a sense of community that celebrates life and the natural world. This approach resonates with many individuals disillusioned with traditional religious institutions, providing a space where spirituality can be both personal and communal.
The Relevance of "A Stranger in a Strange Land"
Published in 1961, "A Stranger in a Strange Land" tells the story of Valentine Michael Smith, a human raised by Martians who returns to Earth to find himself alienated from human society. The novel explores themes of love, spirituality, social norms, and the human condition. It also considers the idea of "grokking," a Martian concept that signifies a deep, intuitive understanding of another person or thing; a profound connection that transcends mere intellectual comprehension.
I Grok You!
Themes of Alienation and Belonging
For the Reformed Druids of Gaia, the theme of alienation in Heinlein's narrative resonates deeply. Many members of the RDG can relate to feeling like "strangers" in a world increasingly disconnected from nature and spiritual authenticity. The RDG positions itself as a response to this alienation, offering a space for individuals to explore their identities and beliefs in a nurturing environment. By promoting the idea of community and connection, central to both Heinlein's work and druidic practice, the RDG encourages its members to embrace their unique perspectives while fostering a collective understanding of humanity’s interconnectedness with the Earth.
The Concept of "Grokking"
A significant element from "A Stranger in a Strange Land" that has permeated RDG ideology is the concept of "grokking." This idea emphasises an experiential understanding that goes beyond superficial knowledge. In the RDG, "grokking" is integral to developing deep connections with both nature and one another. Members are encouraged to engage with their environment in a way that fosters intimacy and acknowledges the Earth as a living entity, deserving of respect and reverence.
Rituals Inspired by Heinlein
To incorporate these elements into their practices, the RDG has developed rituals that reflect the insights gained from Heinlein’s novel. For example, during seasonal ceremonies, members might share stories of personal transformation and understanding, celebrating instances where they have "groked" their surroundings or fellow druids. By recognising and honouring these connections, individuals reinforce their commitment to community and the natural world.
Furthermore, group discussions often revolve around themes from "A Stranger in a Strange Land," prompting members to reflect on how the concepts of love, acceptance, and understanding can manifest in their everyday lives. Such discussions not only facilitate personal growth but also cultivate a shared language and framework for engaging with the world.
The intersection of Heinlein’s narrative and the RDG’s principles exemplifies how literature can serve as a powerful catalyst for spiritual growth, urging readers to embrace a more profound connection with themselves, one another, and the Earth.
This months Moot
Since Sue and I will be presenting at The Healing Weekend (11th- 13th July), we have had to bring the Moot forward. I hope that this will not cause any inconvenience to you.
As always, attendance at this Moot is free, and the Zoom link will be sent to subscribers of this list on the morning of the Event.
I will end this post with a “traditional” blessing of the Reformed Druids of Gaia.
May You Never Thirst, May You Never Hunger.
Alan /|\