Brigid, Celtic Goddess

Brigid is the most complex of the Goddesses of Celtic pantheon. She was the most powerful figure of religious Irish history.She was the traditional patroness of healing, poetry and smithcraft which are practional and inspired wisdom. Her attributes are light, inspiration and all skills asociated with fire. She was also known as The Mistress Of The Mantle. She represents the sister or virgin aspect of the Great Goddeess.

Poets have referred to her as the Woman Fairy Of The Hills. Poets loved writing poems praising Brigid. She was able to master the practical element of fires and is also known as Goddess Of The Flames. She is the Goddess of physicians and healings.

Three rivers have been named for her: Brigit, Braint and Brent in Ireland, Wales and England. Brigid is also associated with underworld quests and sacred kingship.

Imbolc is a celebration dedicated to the Goddess Brigid. She has an important association with the cow. The cows gave milk which was used for drinking and making cheese. Brigid was believed to be the reason cows provided milk. The winters were rough in Ireland and fire was the warmth needed with the arrival of Spring to bring hope to the people.

A corn dolly dressed in white with a crystal on the doll's chest to represent Brigid was carried by children during Imbolc. All good events were attribured to Brigid. The sun's rays and warmth was also credited to Brigid. Cakes were made and food was plentiful at Imbolc and fires were lit in her honor.

Brigid also made sure women had rights. No rape was permiteed and violaters would be punished. She was all for motherhood and loving and caring for children.

Brigid's spark is alive in all of us who believe in her. If there ever was a perfect woman, it was Brigid.
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