2-27-2023 10:22am

Did Scotland have their own Druids? And are they the Champions in our Scottish Highland Games?

Dr. Anton Anderssen Editor

The druids were an ancient class of learned men and women who played an important role in the societies of the Celtic world. Although their exact origin is unclear, druids are believed to have been active across Britain, Ireland, and Gaul (modern-day France) from around the 2nd century BC until the Roman conquest in the 1st century AD. Their role varied depending on the region, but they were generally known for their knowledge of philosophy, law, medicine, and religion, and were often called upon to serve as advisers to the ruling elite.

The question of whether the Scots had their own form of druids is a complex one. On the one hand, it is clear that the Picts, who were one of the early inhabitants of Scotland, had their own form of shamanistic religion that was distinct from that of the druids. However, it is also clear that the Gaels, who came to dominate Scotland in the Middle Ages, had a strong connection to druidic culture and may have practiced their own form of druidism.

One of the primary sources of information about druidism in Scotland comes from the writings of the Irish monks who lived in Scotland during the Middle Ages. These monks were known for their skill in creating illuminated manuscripts, and many of their works have survived to this day. One such work is the Lebor Bretnach, or "Book of the Britons," which was written in the 9th century AD and contains a wealth of information about the history and culture of the Britons, including the Scots.

According to the Lebor Bretnach, the Scots had their own form of druidism that was closely related to that of the Irish. Like their Irish counterparts, Scottish druids were believed to possess supernatural powers and were revered for their wisdom and knowledge. They were also known for their ability to communicate with the spirits of nature and were often called upon to perform divination and other magical practices.

In comparison to their British counterparts, Scottish druids were believed to have placed a greater emphasis on poetry and music. According to the Lebor Bretnach, the Scots had a tradition of bards who were highly respected for their ability to compose and recite poetry. These bards were believed to have been closely associated with the druids and may have performed many of the same functions.

Despite the similarities between Scottish and Irish druidism, there were also some important differences. One of the most notable of these was the fact that Scottish druids were believed to have placed a greater emphasis on warrior culture. According to the Lebor Bretnach, the Scots had a tradition of "champions" who were highly skilled in battle and were often called upon to defend their people against invaders. These champions were believed to have been closely associated with the druids and may have received special training in the use of weapons and tactics.

The "Highland Games" are a traditional Scottish athletic event that originated in the Scottish Highlands in the late 11th century as a way for Scottish warriors to train and compete in various physical challenges. Although the Highland Games have evolved over the centuries and are now a celebration of Scottish culture and heritage, some aspects of the warrior culture that inspired their creation are still evident in the modern-day event.

By studying the writings of the Irish monks and other historical sources, we can gain a better understanding of the rich and complex culture of the Scots and their druidic traditions. It also helps us understand some of the ancient origins behind Scottish Highland Games.

2023 Hawaiian Scottish Festival & Highland Games

Saturday, April 1 & Sunday, April 2, 2023

9 am to 4 pm

Jefferson Elementary School

324 Kapahulu Ave

Honolulu, Hawaii 96815

https://www.facebook.com/events/859762991950075

https://www.facebook.com/groups/68935336630

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