A NATURE-CENTERED PEOPLE
Large oak tree in New Jersey.
Perhaps since our best historical accounts of Druid culture were documented by the Romans, it follows that their interpretations would take into account common Roman cultural believes. Therefore there are some parallels between attributes of Roman polytheistic structure and what we know of Druid deities. As the Celts were tribal, the names of gods and goddesses vary by location. Most Druidic gods were gods of nature and natural occurrences. For example, the Celtic god Lúgh is believed to bring thunderstorms for crops in the summer. The god the mentioned in Norma, a traditionally Gallic god of great might, Esus, is to whom they make human sacrifices. Celtic sculptures 14
A NATURED-CENTER PEOPLE
“In the earth I shall be with you.” – Norma
from Gaul depict both male and female deities, with the male gods protecting the tribe, and the female goddesses (“mother nature” figures) ensuring fertility. The Druids deeply revered nature and the cycle of life. Religious festivals took place with each of the seasons, and the moon and sun were especially important. The Druids often ascribed sentient and divine characteristics to natural elements such as rivers and mountains.
