#capall in irish = horse

[couscousgoose]

Capall Roan

[obstinatecondolement]

I have to remind myself anew every time I see something about Chappell Roan that she doesn't, in fact, have a horse girl gimmick.

The reason I think she does, even though she definitely doesn't, is... like, well, Roan is pretty self explanatory, but Chappell sounds halfway between cheval (horse in French) and capall (horse in Irish) to me, and she has all the cowboy hats and chaps and stuff? But that is not the central branding behind her stage name and is just some bullshit my brain extrapolated from overzealous pattern recognition.

But also, if any aspiring Gaeilgeoir or Francophone drag artists want a name that would work with a horse-related gimmick, Capall Roan and Cheval Roan are all yours.

[polysprachig]

17.03.2024 | lá fhéile Pádraig sona daoibh and some borderline Merlin fanfiction in Irish ☘️🍄

*Currently learning to record and working on my reader voice—without dropping my mixed accent

Sometimes you plan to do something 4 years ago, then 2, and in the end you do it today. How long I thought it would take to improve my writing and translation skills before moving on to creative reading and how long it actually took differed quite drastically. But as I annotate the polyglot journal I started in 2020 (which is not the book pictured above), it's hard to feel like that's a bad thing, since I gave myself an appropriate amount of time to work on each stage of my projects at my current level without feeling the need to rush on to the next thing.

The audio here is cut from a set of blanket test recordings I made to test out some recording software, which is why it gives she-just-picked-up-the-text-and-started-reading-without-prep-time vibes.

Text in Irish and English below.

English translation shares the original sentiment but at a different register—as was my specific intention in this particular project.

Fadó, fadó chuaigh Merlin go Camelot.

Long before the days of yore and once upon a time Merlin went to Camelot.

Bhuel, shiúil sé chuig an gcathair agus teangacha a bhróg ag longadán anonn is anall agus é ar a bhealach ann.

Walked, rather, the tongues of his boots swaying back and forth as he made his way there.

Ní raibh ann ach stócach bocht thart faoin am sin agus ní raibh a fhios aige cén dóigh marcaíocht ar chapall a dhéanamh, agus ní raibh capall aige fiú!

He was only a young lad at that time and hadn’t the faintest idea how to ride a horse, but fortunately for him, he didn’t own one!

Ba bhuachaill deas is cairdiúil é Merlin. Bhí sé ard tanaí agus bhí gruaig dhubh, súile gorma, agus cluasa móra air.

A nice, friendly boy Merlin was, tall and thin with black hair, blue eyes and sizeable ears.

É sin ráite, níor éist sé le daoine eile ar chor ar bith – agus fadhb i gcroí an scéil seo a bheidh inti sin, déanta na fírinne.

Not that he used them to listen to anyone else – a truth which, I dare say, will be the problem at the heart of this story.

Mar sin féin, ní hionann sin ‘s a rá go raibh sé ag déanamh amaidí gach lá.

Be that as it may, he wasn’t one to make a complete fool of himself either.

Thuig sé rudaí praiticiúla, mar shampla: ná bí i do shuí ar do thóin nuair a bhuaileann tú le díbheargaigh sa choill, ná hól uisce as an áit naofa agus rudaí mar sin.

He knew such practical things as not to sit on his arse when he happened on bandits in the forest, not to drink water from a sacred well and things like that.

Cé gur thuig sé é sin, rinne sé a rogha rud freisin.

Still, Merlin was rather prone to do as he pleased.

Tugadh am crua dó, ach b’fhearrde sé é gan dabht. 

It nearly always made his life more difficult, but what great test of character that turned out to be.

Chaith sé éadach glan buanfasach. Éadach donn a bhí i gceist den chuid is mó, ach bhí léine ghorm is scaif dhearg iontach deas aige freisin.

He wore clothes which were clean and durable and mostly brown to my recollection; yet he did have a blue shirt and a wonderfully lovely red scarf as well.

Ní raibh ach mála beag amháin aige chomh maith le pocán fíona, a luasc nuair a ghlac sé gach céim, agus éadach olla áisiúil ar chodail sé air. 

With him he carried only a small rucksack, a wineskin which rocked to and fro as he took each step, and a handy, woollen blanket to sleep on.

Bhí sé an-ghaofar nuair a chuaigh Merlin thar na sléibhte ar an mbóthar gainimh, ach mhothaigh sé an ghrian ar a aghaidh. Bhí sé te go leor.

A strong wind blew as Merlin traversed the mountains on the sandy road, but the sun on his face shone warm enough.

Bhí lá breá geallta don lá, rud a rinne radharc an tírdhreacha i bhfad níos áille.

The day was proving, as promised, to be a fine one and that made the view of the landscape even more beautiful.

Bhí féar glas agus rosáin bheaga ag fás taobh le cosán an tsléibhe, crainn ghiúise ina sheasamh ar charraigeacha na n-aillte, sruthanna beaga sneachta ag soilsiú ar cheann an tsléibhe agus néalta geala ag síneadh go bun na spéire.

Green grass and small shrubs grew along the mountain path, fir trees towered on the rocky cliffs, little streams of snow glistened on each mountain peak and bright clouds stretched as far as the eye could see.

Ní fhaca sé Camelot fós agus bhí tinneas cosa air, ach níor chuir sé sin moill air.

He could not yet see Camelot and his feet grew weary, but his pace never slowed.

Le fírinne, bhí an-dúil ag Merlin sa turas mór agus bhí sé sásta, is dócha. 

Truth be told, the journey was quite enjoyable for Merlin and he was generally content to be on it.

[stairnaheireann]

Capall Mór Sculpture | Clonkeen, Co Kerry

Sculpture of a rearing Irish War horse, accoutered with a helmet featuring a unicorn horn, typical of the war horses used by the Celtic chiefs during their battles. There are broken chains around its front legs, signifying freedom. It is famous for The Sculpture Road to Killarney where the internationally respected sculptor, Tighe O’Donoghue of Glenflesk and his son, Eoghan, were commissioned to…

[hibernia-1]

An illustration from the book “Irish Gothic” by Steve Lally.

[finnlongman]

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Finn Longman (@finnlongman)

Cheannaigh mé na leabhair seo an seachtain seo chaite ag An Siopa Gaeilge nuair a bhí mé ar cúrsa teanga ag Oideas Gael i Ghleann Cholm Cille, ag foghlaim Ghaeilge. Críochnaigh mé An Leon, An Bandraoi agus An Prios Éadaigh cúpla lá ó shin – níor thuig mé achán focal nó achán frása, ach is cuimhin liom an scéal seachair léigh mé é arís agus arís as Béarla nuair a bhí mé óg. Is Gaeilge Uladh é an aistríuchan agus is maith liom é sin – d'aithin mé frásaí ó ranganna an coicís seo chaite. Anois tá mé ag léamh An Capall agus A Ghiolla :)

I bought these books last week in An Siopa Gaeilge when I was on a language course at Oideas Gael in Glencolumbkille, learning Irish. I finished The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe a couple of days ago – I didn't understand every word or every sentence, but I remember the story because I read it again and again in English when I was young. The translation is Ulster Irish, and I like that – I recognised phrases from classes this last fortnight. Now I'm reading The Horse and His Boy.

[cartooncreaturelover]

Donahue Doodle | (he/him) | Traditional Doodle

Here’s a little doodle of Donahue (pronounced Dawn-uh-hue)!

He’s my Dullahan lady, Deidra’s, Dubh Capall; which translates to “black horse” or “dark horse” in Irish! Even though this doodle isn’t shaded or colored, Donahue is a black-colored horse as his species name suggests! 

I think this is the first time I’ve ever drawn a horse that definitely looks like a horse! I wanted Donahue (& all Dubh Capalls) to look distinct from Dullatrolls’ Shadow Mounts, so I used a bunch of references to get his head shape right! Shadow Mounts aren’t actually the creatures they appear to be, as one like Ciara would essentially be a faux horse. Because of that, they don’t perfectly look like the animals they’re trying to present as & often appear more “simplified;” Ciara for example has a different head shape, nose, lips, has no whiskers, as well as her obvious extra eyes & large dog-like mouth! Dubh Capalls actually look almost exactly like horses, but their eyes look more “ghoulish!”

[ID: A traditional art, pencil doodle, of a half-body of Donahue drawn on a white notecard. He appears to be standing as his left side profile is visible. Only his head, neck, shoulders, & some of his back & side can be seen.

Donahue is a dove-caw-pull, or a black horse; steeds that belong to Dullahans. Donahue in particular appears to have his mane pulled up into multiple buns, the largest one being the first one above his forehead. A loose strand of hair is poking out of his first “mane bun.” He has long eyelashes & ghoulish eyes. Donahue has no distinct iris, as his sclera & iris blend together to create a gradient of darker & lighter values; his iris being the lighter value & his sclera being the darker value. He has faintly appearing rectangular pupils that appear as a very light grey in the pencil drawing. 

He is softly smiling with his mouth closed as he looks forward from where he is positioned. End ID]

[crimeronan]

irish words i knew going into my studies Exclusively because of maggie stiefvater:

capall - horse

uisce - water

the capaill uisce are supernatural water horses in the scorpio races. pretty on the nose

rón - seal

rónán - little seal

geansaí (gansey) - sweater

cara (kerah) - friend

mór - great in scope

irish words i knew going into my studies from other sources of knowledge:

...none. no words. zero. had never heard this language spoken in my life

[off-in-the-moors]

Water Horses: more than just kelpies

Water horses as a mythological creatures appear in Celtic and Scandinavian folklore. They're shape-shifting water spirits, who lure and drag their unsuspecting victims to their demise. However, there are many types of water horses, differing from each other not only by places of origin but in behaviour. What they all have in common is: inhabiting bodies of water and taking the form of a horse. I'll try my best to present the best known and least known ones, in simple to understand fashion. In advance, I want to apologies for any mistakes made. I'm only one person doing this partly as a story research and partly as my love/fascination for those creatures. I advise taking this post as a starting point and encourage to look into the folklore yourselves. Also, I apologies for any grammatical mistakes, English is my second language.

Kelpie

Location: Scotland Other names: x Body of water: streams and rivers

the best known of all water horse

appears as a powerful and beautiful black, dark grey or white horse, with reversed hooves and, in some sources, equipped with a bridle and sometimes a saddle

if the kelpie was already wearing a bridle, "exorcism" might be achieved by removing it, which would be endowed with magical properties, like healing, and if brandished towards someone, was able to transform that person into a horse or pony

can shape-shift into a human figures, with water weeds in hair, such as old wizened man; rough, shaggy man; handsome young man wearing a silver necklace, which was its bridle; or a tall woman dressed in green

in the form of handsome young man, said to seeks "human companionship" and will woo a pretty young girl which is determined to take for its wife

if mounted, its skin becomes adhesive, in stories where a hand or a finger got stuck to the creature, the only way to break free was to cut it off

most stories say they only drown their victims, but some say they tear them apart and devour them, leave the entrails to washout to the water's edge

could entice victims onto its back by singing

some sources say, it can have a offspring with a horse, which would be impossible to drown and had ears shorter then normal

could be k*lled with a silver bullet or heated iron, and after dying, it’ll turn into turf and soft mass, like jellyfish

could be tamed with well placed halter, some sources say in should have sign of a cross on it

the noise a kelpie's tail makes when it entered water sounds like thunder

its howls and wails, as a warning of approaching storms

Each-uisge

Location: Scotland, Ireland, Isle of Man Other names: each-uisce/aughisky/ech-ushkya (Irish), cabyll-ushtey (Manx) Body of water: sea, sea lochs and fresh water lochs

the name means "water horse", literally

has been described as "perhaps the fiercest and most dangerous of all the water-horses", being unpredictable in nature

can shape-shift into fine horse, pony, a handsome man (water weeds, sand or mud in hair) or an enormous bird (such as a boobrie/great auk)

tears apart and devours the entire body of its victim, except for the liver, lungs or heart (depending on the source), and  some times pieces of clothing are also present

preys not only on humans but also cattle and sheep

could be lured out off the water by the smell of roasted meat

can be k*lled with red-hot iron and after being k*lled, leaves jelly-like substance

repelled by silver and fire

sometimes comes out of the water to gallop on land and, despite the danger, if caught and tamed then it will make the finest of steeds

most likely to come out in November

can be ride safety on interior land as long as they don't smell or gets a glimpse of water

because of their pr*datory hunger, they may even turn on their own kind, if the scent of a human rider is strong enough on the monster's body

Ceffyl Dŵr

Location: Wales Other names: x Body of water: mountain pools, waterfalls and seashore (few sources)

most stories say they're fresh water but some sources say there is a salt water version, differing mostly in colour

its characterisation depends on the region, in North Wales its represented as being rather formidable with fiery eyes and a dark forbidding presence, while in South Wales its seen more positively as, at worst a cheeky pest to travellers and at best, luminous, fascinating and sometimes a winged steed

appears as a pony or cob sized horse, dappled grey or sand colour, with hooves facing backwards; or large chestnut or piebald horse

though it appears solid, it can evaporate into mist or grown wings

some sources say, it could transform into frogs

can k*ll its victims by trampling them on the pathways they frequent; or by convincing someone to ride them, only to drown them; or fly them into the air only to turn to mist, dropping the unfortunate rider to his death

like with kelpies, they can be tamed by use of a well placed bridle, though it’s much harder, due to their ability to turn intangible

in some sources its connected with sea-storm: appearing with sea-foam white coat in storm seasons; dapple, grey or white, clumsily stomping about in the ocean waves prior to the storm (possibly brewing up the very storm its sighting precedes); and as large chestnut or piebald horse trotting along the coast after storm

Nykur

Location: Iceland Other names: x Body of water: lake, river, stream and sea

appears as a grey horse with backwards hooves and ears

could change itself into all forms, living or dead, e.g. lambswool or peeled barley

repelled by speaking its name or a synonyms of it (Nennir, Nóni, Vatnaskratti (“water demon”) or Kumbur)

appears on the lake-shore, with half its body in the water, and looks to be quite tame to its unsuspecting victims

if mounted, its skin becomes adhesive and its will ride into the water and drown its victim

its neighing is said to sound like ice cracking

could breed with a horse (giving birth like a normal mare, albeit in the water), its offspring were indistinguishable from those of a normal horse but had a tendency to lie down when splashed with water or when led through belly-deep water

Tangie

Location: Shetland Islands, Orkney Islands Other names: tongie Body of water: fresh and salt water

the name comes from 'tang', which comes from Old Norse "þang" meaning 'seaweed' (probably referring to seaweed of genus Fucus)

appears as a coarse-haired, apple-green pony or a black horse with seaweed or shells in its mane

in other forms, appears as an aged man or merman, also covered in seaweeds

known for terrorizing lonely travellers, especially young women on roads at night near the lochs, whom it will abduct and devour under the water

said to be able to cause derangement in humans and animals

best known for playing a major role in the Shetland legend of Black Eric, a sheep rustler

Nuggle

Location: Shetland Islands, Orkney Islands (few mentions) Other names: neugle, njogel, nuggie, noggle, nogle, nygel, shoepultie/shoopiltee Body of water: rivers, streams and lochs, beside watermills

nocturnal

always male, appearing as a attractive, generously fed and well-conditioned (Shetland) pony or horse, with wheel-like tail which it hides between its back-legs or arched over its back, and sleek coat from a deep bluish-grey through to a very light, almost white, grey

can take many forms, but never of a human

never strays very far from water

fairly gentle disposition, being more prone to playing pranks and making mischief rather than having malicious intents, like stopping the watermill's wheel

some stories state, only magical beings called Finns (Finfolk) were able to ride a nuggle without coming to any harm

Bäckahäst

Location: Scandinavian Other names: brook horse Body of water: rivers, lakes and ponds

appears as a majestic white (sometimes with spotted sides) horse

appears particularly during foggy weather

could be harnessed and made to plough, either because it was trying to trick a person or because the person had tricked the horse into it

Cabyll-Ushtey

Location: Isle of Man, Ireland Other names: glashtyn, cabbyl-ushtey, capall uisce (possibly Irish or Old Irish) Body of water: sea

there are very few tales about it

very similar to each-uisge, but not as dangerous

appears as a pale grey horse, but capable of change into a young man

mostly known for seizing cows and tear them to pieces, stampeding horses, and stealing children

If there are any mistakes or missing informations or questions, feel free to ask.

[clevercatlearns]

Irish Words I studied today

neacht = niece – “nya-ghch-t”

nia = nephew – “nee-uh”

mo = my – “moh”

capall = horse – “cawp-ll”

ar mhuin capaill = on horseback – “air vwuin cawp-ll”

páirc = field, or park – “paw-rk”

páirc pheile = football field – “paw-rk fell”

peil = football – “pehl”

bog = soft – “bohg”

bhí sé bog faoi do lámh = it was soft to touch – “vee shay bohg fay dawh lawv” (Munster) (fwee instead of fay, and law-iv instead of lawv, in Connacht)

magadh = mocking – “mah-guh”

bhí sé ag magadh fúithi = he was mocking her – “vee shay ag mah-guh foo-hee” (I was unable to find audio for fúithi, or a dictionary entry specifically for it, so I'm not sure whether it's a grammatical form of faoi, or not, and if so, which dialect the pronunciation is from, though presumably Connacht, since that's the dialect the teacher uses most often, though he does go back, and forth between Connacht, and Munster dialects.) blasta = delicious – “blah-stuh” tá an bia iontach blasta = the food is delicious – “taw awn be-uh een-taghch blah-stuh” (Munster) (taw awn be-uh oon-taghch blah-stuh, in Connacht) an Bhreatain Bheag = Wales (lit. Little Brittain) – “awn vra-tin vyog” an Bhreatain = Brittain – “awn vra-tin” an Bhreatain Mhór = Great Brittain – “awn vra-tin voor” (Munster) (awn vra-tin war in Connacht) díol = selling, sale – “dee-ol” tá sé ag díol go maith = it's selling well – “taw shay eegh dee-ol goh ma” mar shampla = for example – “mar ham-pluh” bord = table – “bord” (Munster) (bower-d, in Connacht) tá do dhinnéar ar an mbord = your dinner is on the table – “taw dawh yin-nair air awn mord” thug = gave – “hoag” past tense grammatical form of ‘tabhair’ (to give), pronounced tow-r (not exactly, but it's difficult for me to transliterate a half rolling of an ‘r’). thug sé = he gave – “hoag shay” thug mé = I gave – “hoag may” Thug sé barróg mhór di = he gave her a big hug – “hoag shay bar-oag voor dih” Worth noting that it's pronounced very similarly to ‘thóg’, which has a slightly longer ‘oa’ sound. ‘thóg’ being a grammatical form of ‘hóg’, which means to lift, raise; take up, take. Lift up.

[ladyofthegeneral]

ODFS CAOIMHE . Caoimhe is a Capall Uisce Horse, which is an original RPG breed I have created on DeviantArt, inspired both by the kelpies and each uisge of Scottish and Irish legend, and the wonderful book The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater. Capaill Uisce are not free to create, but imports are five dollars! . These fins are an UNLOCKABLE mutation called Merrow! It’s Irish for Mermaid. . . #originalspecies #originalcharacter #closedspecies #horse #demonhorse #waterhorse #kelpie #magic #drawtoadopt #adoptables #paytoadopt #purchase #available #charactersforsale #capailluisce #capailluiscehorsebreed https://www.instagram.com/p/Bs_DMJkHOaa/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=efa2h5bber3b

[tipsycad147]

Celtic and Druid Spirit Animals

By shirleytwofeathers

Below are listed some of the animals denoted by Celtic Shamanism and Druidism along with their spiritual denotation:

Adder, Snake (Nadredd):

The snake has long been associated with wisdom, reincarnation, and cunning. The Poisonous adder of the British Isles has the same reputation. Although there were no snakes in Ireland, the Irish Celts knew about them. The Druids were known in Wales as Nadredd. The Druids also carried an amulet called gloine nathair (Serpent Glass); which was supposed to be formed from the eggs of an adder.

Badger (Breach):

This animal is unyielding in the face of danger and is noted for its tenacity and courage. In the Welsh tale of Pwyll’s courting of Rhiannon, a badger is mentioned as a guide during dreaming. The badger will teach you to fight for your rites and defend your spiritual ideas.

Bat:

Associated with the underworld or Awwyn, as the bats radar guides it through the night avoiding obstacles and barriers, so it can teach you to do the same.

Bear (Arth):

Although the bear was native to the Isles, it is now extinct there. The word Arth, means bear, which is the root word for the name Arthur. The bear was noted for its strength and stamina. It is said to help give you balance in life and the strength to do what is necessary.

Bee (Beach):

The bee is revered as industrious, single minded when performing a task, and fearless when defending its home.

Blackbird (Druid-dhubh, Lon Duhb):

Legends say that the birds of Rhiannan are three blackbirds, which sit and sing in the World Tree of the Otherworlds. Their singing puts the listener into a sleep or a trance which enables him/her to travel to the Otherworld. It was said to impart mystic secrets.

Boar (Bacrie):

Important in the arts and myths of the Celtic people, the boar was known for its cunning and ferocious nature. A famous legendary boar was Orc Triath, which the goddess Brigit owned. In the Arthurian tales of the Mabinogion the boar Twrch Trwyth was a terrible foe to Arthur. The White Boar of Marvan sent inspiration to its master to write music and poetry.

Bull (Tarbh):

A common animal figure in Celtic mythology, the bull symbolises strength and potency. Certain divination rituals required the sacrifice of a white bull. In the tale of the Tain Bo Cuailgne (Cattle raid of Cooley), two special bulls are coveted by two rulers. The Tar-roo-Ushtey (Water bull) is said to haunt the Isle of Man.

Butterfly:

In many cultures the butterfly is thought to be the souls of the dead and keepers of power. There is said to be no negative energies experienced in any Otherworld area when there is the presence of butterflies. It is said that they will help you to view matters with greater clarity.

Cat (Caoit, Cat):

Many of the Celtic legends picture the cat as a ferocious, evil creature, but that may have been because cats at that time were untamed. In Ireland Finn mac Cumhail was said to have fought a clan of “cat-headed” people. The cat is a strong protector, especially when placed in confrontation.

Cock:

In several Celtic legends the cock chases away ghosts and unwanted spirits by his crowing at dawn. It represents the power of the word to dispel negativity.

Cow (Bo):

Once so important to the Celts it was used as a form of currency or monetary exchange. Ancient Irish lords were known as bo-aire or cow-lord. The cow was sacred to the goddess Brigit. The cow symbolises contentedness, defending the inner child, and providing for daily needs.

Crane:

At one time the crane was a common animal in the British Isles. One later Celtic tradition, apparently originated after the arrival of Christianity, is that cranes are people who are paying a penance for some wrong doing. The crane is associated with the Cailleach and Manannan Mac Lir, who made his crane bag from its skin. The crane with its colours of black, white, and red, was a moon bird, sacred to the Triple Goddess. Magick, shamanic travel, learning and keeping secrets, reaching deeper mysteries and truths is said to be taught by the crane.

Crow (Badb):

This animal is to be treated with care. Along with the raven, the crow is a symbol of conflict and death, an ill-omen associated with such Goddess as Macha, Badb, and Morrigan. The Irish word for crow is badb, which is also the name of a Celtic war Goddess. Although the crow was ill-omened, it was also considered to be skilful, cunning, and a bringer of knowledge. It teaches you to learn from the past, but not to hold onto it. It is of most value when trickery is in need.

Deer (Abhach) or Stag (Sailetheach):

In its form of the white doe or white stag, the deer was often a messenger and guide from the Otherworld. Following such an animal led the unsuspecting human into contact with supernatural beings. The antlered headdress of Cernunnos is a symbol of the stags stature. The deer represents keen scent, grace, swiftness, and gentleness. These are the ways of reaching our goals without using force.

Dog (Abach, Mada) or Hound (Cu):

Devoted hounds are often mentioned in Celtic myth, such as Bran and Sceolan which belonged to Finn mac Cumhail. Underworld hounds, such as the Welsh Cwn Annwn belonged to Arawn, are always white with red ears. The Underworld Hounds run down and punish the guilty. Dogs represent tracking skills, the ability to scent a trail, and companionship.

Dolphin:

This creature was associated with the sea deities. It deals with dreams and harmony, and recognising and balancing the rhythms of your body with those of nature.

Dragon (Piastras, payshtha, Horn):

The dragon in Celtic-British mythology has more varieties than the standard legged form; it is sometimes represented as a water serpent or worm-shaped beast. There are many references to serpents or dragons in Celtic myth. On many occasions the Fianna fought huge dragons in lakes. Most cultures consider the dragon a benevolent dweller of caves, lakes, and the inner Earth. It was an ancient symbol of wealth. The dragon symbolises the power of the Elements, especially that of the Earth, but also of the treasure of the subconscious mind.

Eagle (Lolair):

A bird noted for wisdom and long life in Celtic stories. The eagle represents swiftness, strength, keen sight, and the knowledge of magick. It helps you to see hidden spiritual truths.

Eel (As-chu):

One of many stories in which the eel is mentioned is the story of the swineherds who battled through a variety of shape-shifting forms. In their final forms as eels, the swineherds were swallowed by cows who later gave birth to magickal bulls. Cu Chulainn’s spear Gae-Bolga got its name from the eel. The eel symbolises adaptability, wisdom, inspiration, and defence.

Fox (Mada Rua):

In Taliesin’s Song of His Origins, the Bard says he assumed the shape of a satirising fox, a reference to the cunning, slyness, and ability of the fox to make fools out of those who chase it. The ability to watch the motivations and movements of others while remaining unobserved is the skill which we may learn from the fox.

Frog:

In many cultures the frog is a symbol of magick. It can teach you to leap swiftly from one level of consciousness to another, from this world to the Otherworld. The frog can also help you find the courage to accept new ideas, nurture yourself, and find connections between ideas.

Hare or Rabbit (Coinin):

An animal sacred to the Goddess Andraste in particular. Its movements were sometimes used for divination; Boudicia used a hare this way just before her last battle with the Romans. It is associated with transformation, the receiving of hidden teachings, and intuitive messages.

Hawk (Aracos):

Celtic oral tradition lists the oldest animal as the Hawk of Achill. As with other birds, the hawk is a messenger between the Otherworld and this world. However, it is of greater skill and strength than other birds. It symbolises clear sightedness and longevity of the memory. If you hear a hawk cry during a journey, be alert to upcoming situations that need boldness and decisiveness to keep from being thrown off balance.

Horse (Cab-all, Capall):

A popular animal of the Celts. Sacred to the Goddesses Epona and Rhiannon. The horse was considered to be a faithful guide to the Otherworld. It symbolises stamina, endurance, and faithfulness.

Lizard:

The lizard symbolises the shadowy plane of manifestation where events are constantly changing shapes and patterns. If you see a lizard on a journey, be alert to all below the surface activities going on around you.

Lynx:

This creature is considered the keeper of deep secrets and hidden knowledge. It can help with divinatory skills and the development of psychic senses. Sometimes it symbolises the need to look deeper within yourself to see that which is often hidden.

Magpie:

This bird is said to deal with omens and prophecies, as well as the mysteries of life and death.

Mouse (Luch):

The mouse is often mentioned in Celtic folklore. In a Welsh story with Manawydan and Pryderi, a mouse is portrayed as the shape shifted wife of the magician Llwyd. The mouse represents secrets, cunning, shyness, and the ability to hide in times of danger.

Otter (Balgair):

These animals were considered very magickal by the Celts. Otters were said to appear and help during the voyages of Maelduine, Brendan, and others. The otter is a strong protector who helps with gaining wisdom, finding inner talents, faithfulness, and the ability to recover from any crisis.

Owl (Caillech):

These birds were most often associated with the Crone aspects of the Goddess. The word “cailleach” in the Scottish Gaelic means “owl.” The owl is often a guide to and through the Underworld, a creature of keen sight in darkness, and a silent and swift hunter. It can help unmask those who would deceive you or take advantage of you.

Pig (Muc):

A swine was considered to be the magickal, sacred food of the Tuatha De Dannan and an animal of Manannan mac Lir. In the Mabinogion Pwyll received a gift of pigs from the underworld God, Awrawn. Their later theft by Gwydion caused the death of Pwyll’s son Pryderi. The writings of Merlin say that he spoke with a little pig in visions. Symbolic of the spiritual food necessary to the Druids who were said to be swine herders.

Rat (Francach):

Rats are not mentioned in a favourable light in Celtic folklore, but they have their place. Rats are sly, sometimes aggressive, creatures who can track down whatever they seek, defending themselves ferociously.

Raven (Bran):

Take care when dealing with this bird. An important animal of the Celts. In Ireland the raven was associated with the battlefields and such Goddesses as Morrigu or the later Welsh Morrigan, just as the crow. The bird was connected with Bran the Blessed. In Welsh, bran means, “raven.” Although its reputation is dubious, it is an oracular bird. It often represents the upsets and crisis of life that are necessary for new creation.

Salmon (Brionnfhionn):

A very wise, magickal creature in Celtic lore. A salmon of great knowledge is said to swim in the Well of Segais, eating the mystical hazelnuts that fall into the well. When the Irish hero Finn mac Cumhail burned his thumb on a salmon and then put the thumb in his mouth, he gained shamanic knowledge. The salmon teaches how to get in touch with ancestral knowledge and how to put it to practical use.

Sow (Airc):

The Goddess Cerridwen was known as the White Sow. The sow was considered a very powerful creature in the Underworld. As a creature of Cerridwen, it was associated with the Sacred Cauldron and the granting of inspiration; also a creature of death and rebirth.

Squirrel:

This creature is always preparing for the future; it is said to have shown the druid how to do this in a practical way. Sometimes its appearance heralds changes, even adversities. Plan ahead so that you may always be prepared.

Swan (Eala):

A mystical bird who finds its way into several Celtic stories. Its feathers were often used in the ritual cloak of the Bards. Swans are connected with music and song. Swans also help with the interpretation of dream symbols, transitions, and spiritual evolution.

Turtle:

The turtle is a slow moving, methodical creature, carrying its protection constantly with it. It is said to teach the druid to be grounded, how to stay in tune with Earth energies, the wisdom of flowing with the cycles of life, and to be gentle with the body’s needs.

Unicorn:

This mythical Celtic creature had the body of a white horse, the legs of an antelope, tail of a lion; and a single horn on its head. It is the symbol of supreme magickal power. It teaches that every action is creation, so make every day count.

Wolf:

The wolf is a cunning, intelligent creature, capable of out thinking hunters. It can teach you how to read the signs of nature in everything, how to pass danger invisibly, how to outwit those who would wish you harm, and how to fight when needed.

Wren (Dryw, Dreoilin):

A sacred bird to the Druids specifically, its musical notes were used for divination. As with many other birds, the wren was considered a messenger from the deities.

Source: Father Oak

https://shirleytwofeathers.com/The_Blog/powers-that-be/celtic-and-druid-spirit-animals/

[stairnaheireann]

Capall Mór Sculpture | Clonkeen, Co Kerry

Capall Mór Sculpture | Clonkeen, Co Kerry

Sculpture of a rearing Irish War horse, accoutered with a helmet featuring a unicorn horn, typical of the war horses used by the Celtic chiefs during their battles. There are broken chains around its front legs, signifying freedom. It is famous for The Sculpture Road to Killarney where the internationally respected sculptor, Tighe O’Donoghue of Glenflesk and his son, Eoghan, were commissioned to…

[toinghaeilge]

Ceann

While the word ceann is used in Munster to mean “head”, parts of Connacht (Galway and Mayo) and Ulster (all of it) favour cloigeann (skull), and ceann is used almost exclusively to refer to “one”.

For example,

Sin é an ceann a bhí mé ag caint faoi That’s the one I was talking about

Tá ceann de na rothaí pollta One of the wheels is punctured

It is also used in the plural:

How many horses do you have? We have three. Cé mhéad capall atá agaibh? Tá trí cinn againn.

Notice that all of the above were used to refer to inanimate objects or animals. There is a distinction when you’re referring to people:

One of the boys is sick Tá duine de na buachaillí tinn

We’re the ones who are responsible Is sinne na daoine atá freagrach

Try it

Translate these to Irish:

1. Cóilí's the one who has to pay. 2. It works better than the other one. 3. One of the boys

Hover below for answers

1. Is é Cóilí an duine a chaithfidh íoc. 2. Oibríonn sé níos fearr ná an ceann eile. 3. Duine de na buachaillí

[toingaeilge]

Ceann

While the word ceann is used in Munster to mean “head”, parts of Connacht (Galway and Mayo) and Ulster (all of it) favour cloigeann (skull), and ceann is used almost exclusively to refer to “one”.

For example,

Sin é an ceann a bhí mé ag caint faoi That’s the one I was talking about

Tá ceann de na rothaí pollta One of the wheels is punctured

It is also used in the plural:

How many horses do you have? We have three. Cé mhéad capall atá agaibh? Tá trí cinn againn.

Notice that all of the above were used to refer to inanimate objects or animals. There is a distinction when you’re referring to people:

One of the boys is sick Tá duine de na buachaillí tinn

We’re the ones who are responsible Is sinne na daoine atá freagrach

Try it

Translate these to Irish:

1. Cóilí's the one who has to pay. 2. It works better than the other one. 3. One of the boys

Hover below for answers

1. Is é Cóilí an duine a chaithfidh íoc. 2. Oibríonn sé níos fearr ná an ceann eile. 3. Duine de na buachaillí

[stairnaheireann]

Capall Mór Sculpture | Clonkeen, Co Kerry

Capall Mór Sculpture | Clonkeen, Co Kerry

Sculpture of a rearing Irish War horse, accoutered with a helmet featuring a unicorn horn, typical of the war horses used by the Celtic chiefs during their battles. There are broken chains around its front legs, signifying freedom. It is famous for The Sculpture Road to Killarney where the internationally respected sculptor, Tighe O’Donoghue of Glenflesk and his son, Eoghan, were commissioned to…