Origins and Myths of Belenos, The Celtic God
Written by Émilie Dubois, specialist in Celtic mythology
Before the echoes of the past fade into oblivion, let us thin the dark veils of ancient history to discover the light of Celtic God Belenos . A distant and mysterious pantheon which continues to fascinate a large public eager for historical and cultural knowledge.
Origins of Belenos
Belenos, a deity of Celtic culture, was a god of the sun, beauty and health. He was known to be one of the most revered gods in the Celtic world. He is often depicted with a solar heater, a sign of his powerful connection with the sun.
Myths of Belenos
Several myths surround the figure of Belenos. According to one of them, the god traveled on a chariot to circulate the sun in the sky each day. Another myth has it that Belenos entrusted a raven with the task of representing his face, which gives the bird its distinctive black color.
The cult of Belenos
The cult of Belenos was present mainly in Gaul, Great Britain and Ireland. There were several sanctuaries dedicated to this god, where healing and purification rites were practiced.
The past is a fertile ground for stories and myths that feed our curiosity and our quest for knowledge. Belenos, the luminous divinity of Celtic culture, is an eloquent witness to this ancient wisdom which continues to illuminate the present with its mysterious light.
Sources
- The Celts: History, Life, and Culture by J. T. Koch
- Dictionary of Celtic Religion and culture by Bernhard Maier
Symbolism of Belenos, The God of Light and the Sun
In the rich pantheon of Celtic mythology, Belenos occupies a place of honor. Known as the deity of light and sun, its presence radiates ancient wisdom. To understand the importance of this divine figure, I invite you to dive with me into its dazzling symbolism.
The Origin of Belenos
Belenos is a Gallic god of Indo-European origin, his presence is attested from the 1st millennium BC. Its name comes from the Celtic word “Belen” which means “bright” or “clear”.
Belenos, the God of Light and the Sun
In Celtic mythology, Belenos is recognized as the god of light and sun. He is often depicted with a solar halo around his head, symbolizing his power of blessing and illumination. This deity is proven in solar cults, bringing warmth and light to his people.
Healing in the Light of Belenos
Belenos was also recognized as a healing god. Hot springs and healing fountains were often dedicated to him, his healing power being associated with sunlight.
Celtic Culture and Belenos
Aspects | Symbolics |
The God of light and the sun | Belenos brings the warmth and energy of the sun. |
The Healing God | Here, Belenos brings healing through the light and warmth of the sun. |
The God of springs and fountains | Water springs were sacred to Belenos, symbols of regeneration and healing. |
Through Belenos, the Celtic people highlighted the interconnection between nature, divinity and man. The power of the sun, the source of life and light, as well as the power of healing, was embodied in this sun god. Thus, Belenos invites us to recognize the importance of the natural cycle of light and darkness in our lives.
Recognition and Celebration of Belenos in Celtic Culture
The mythical world of the Celts is populated by powerful and mystical deities, one of the most revered and respected is Belenos. As an expert in Celtic mythology, I want to share with you the fascinating story of this solar deity, its recognition and celebration in the rich and varied Celtic culture.
Who is Belenos?
Belenos, also known as Bel, is a Celtic god of light and healing. He is often associated with the sun and was particularly revered in northern Italy, the Alps, and Gaul. Its attributes are sun, fire, health and youth.
Worship and Ceremonies dedicated to Belenos
The cult of Belenos was widespread throughout Celtic Europe. Sanctuaries dedicated to this deity were built near thermal springs or in mountainous regions, places which were considered healing in Celtic culture. Particular importance was given to the celebration of the Beltane festival, which marks the start of summer in Celtic tradition. During this ceremony, fires were lit in honor of Belenos to bring health, prosperity and happiness.
Representation of Belenos in Celtic art
Belenos is generally represented as a young man radiant with health. He is often depicted with a bow and arrows, symbols of sunlight. Although the Celts did not leave an abundance of figurative artwork, many of the references to Belenos are found on carved stones from the Gallo-Roman period, where he is often depicted as a horseman or charioteer .
Belenos in modern Celtic culture
Today, the legacy of Belenos persists in modern Celtic culture. It is celebrated at Beltane festivals and recognized by those who follow Celtic Neopaganist traditions. His name is invoked in healing and protection rituals, and his influence is seen in the sunlight that illuminates the Celtic lands.
The recognition and celebration of Belenos is a reminder of the importance of the sun and light in life, and of the ancient traditions that honored nature and its phenomena.
Belenos Today: Survival of the Cult and the Celtic Imagination
Belenos: Memories of an Ancient God
In the glorious times of the Celts, the name of Belenos resonated with reverence and respect. This solar god, symbol of light and healing, brought clarity and health to his followers. His cult, although extinct, survives today through various interpretations and reinventions.
The Cult of Belenos through the Ages
The cult of Belenos has taken many forms and has spanned the ages, as have its people. Remnants of the past are still visible today with megaliths, statues and dedications to Belenos discovered across Europe.
Site | Type of vestige | Date |
Sainte-Sabine, France | Statue of Belenos | 2nd century |
Le Mans, France | Registration in Belenos | 2nd century |
Celtic Cult Revivalism
Today, the cult of Belenos is coming back to life thanks to neo-pagan movements such as the druidism. These groups seek to revive ancient Celtic spirituality and honor Belenos as one of their main deities.
Belenos in Popular Culture
What remains of the cult of Belenos is not limited to spirituality. THE myth of the Celtic sun god is also reflected in the realm of popular culture. We find the name of Belenos in literary, musical and visual works, thus perpetuating his heritage through a new form of worship: that of theimaginary.
Conclusion: Belenos, the Survivor
The figure of Belenos, although ancient, continues to shine through the ages, surviving not only through its cult but also through theimaginary men. Whether in a druidic circle or in a work of art, the name Belenos survives and still brings light, even in modern times.