Celtic Meaning of Symbolic Archetypes

Symbolic Thoughts on Celtic Archetypes

This landing page for Celtic Meaning of Symbolic Archetypes is a way to classify and organize various Celtic archetypal symbolism I’ve written about over the years.

According to Webster’s Dictionary, an archetype is:
1.) An original pattern or model from which all things of the same kind are copied or on which they are based; a prototype.
2) An inherited unconscious idea, pattern, thought or image universally present in individual psyches.

What does that mean in the context of symbolic Celtic meaning? It means this:

• In the ancient Celtic mind, the original pattern or model is Nature.
• Humankind is kin to Nature, and thus replicates the attributes seen within Nature.
• Within each individual psyche, the seeds of Natural attributes lay dormant.
• Recognition of a various psychic seeds activate the natural archetypal attribute within humankind.

Within this context, we begin to understand how the Celts were able to easily enfold their identities within the realm of the natural order of the Universe. The logic here is: “If we’re already connected to everything, and all attributes of nature are within each of us, then all one must do is focus on a desired attribute to express its fullness successfully.”

Those attributes can be called archetypes. And so, as you progress on your own Path, you can begin to identify and associate with certain archetypes. For example, the Warrior archetype was a profound attribute to the Celtic culture, and so there are a myriad of symbols that can be associated with the warrior.

Focus upon these symbols can bring about the manifestation of that personality trait within the observer. This is when archetypes become profound catalysts for transformation.

Whether the archetype (the original pattern or model) is a tree, animal or a specific characteristic inherent within the collective human psyche (patience, courage, etc.), the core message is clear: The Celtic meaning of symbolic archetypes gives us a foothold on the kind of vision we have for ourselves and our lives.

We owe a great debt to the Celts (and other heritages who have systematized symbolic perennial wisdom) for doing the groundwork on the complexities of archetypal knowledge. With their insight as a foundation, there is no limit to the expansion of our understanding in the realm of deeper meaning for our lives.

Simply click on the links below for various examples detailing the Celtic meaning of symbolic archetypes.

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	Celtic Gods and Goddesses Who was Taranis and why was he such a favorite at parties? Find out the answer to this and many more of your questions about Celtic Gods and Goddesses.
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	Celtic Tattoo History Studies deduce that Celts were probably really big on tattoos. We're not talking a rose on the cheek. More like full sleeves, along with full chest and back pieces. Check out this page for examples of the art, and learn how they "got inked."
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	Celtic Symbol for Warrior A common question from visitors is "What is the Celtic symbol for warrior." Although not a clear-cut answer, this page outlines some possibilities.
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	Celtic Meaning for Purity How did the ancients express the concept of purity? Check this page out for some ideas on the Celtic symbol for purity.
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	Celtic Goddess Danu However, I've devoted an entire page to ruminations about this Celtic goddess. I invite you to join me in exploring the answers to the question, "Who is Danu?"
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	Celtic Symbols of the Tuatha De Danann Exploration of the Celtic symbols of the Tuatha de Danann. Their properties, associations and magical influences described here.
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	Blodeuwedd: Blodeuwedd herself has several lessons to impart (as is the case with all myths, there is always a moral involved). She was magically conjured up by Gwydion and Math who wanted to provide Lleu Llaw Gyffes a bride. Learn more about Blodeuwedd through her symbols here: Celtic Symbols of Blodeuwedd and Their Meanings
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	Cernunnos: Also known as the "horned one," Cernunnos is an endlessly fascinating figure among the Celtic pantheon. This page discusses the god from a different tact. Sure, he's virile, fertile, and wild - but we can learn far more about Cernunnos from his symbols, and that's what this page sets out to do. Learn more about Cernunnos through his symbols here: Celtic Symbols of Cernunnos and Their Meanings

I hope you enjoy looking through these pages of Celtic Meaning of Symbolic Archetypes.

Big thanks to Aon-Celtic.com for permission to use some of the images on this page.

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