A Study of the Celtic Meaning of the Dragon
Celts thought dragons were wingless creatures, appearing as worms or water-serpents. As dragons traveled across the land they created lines (called “ley lines” or “dragon lines”) in the earth. The lines were conduits of energy. Any place where the lines crossed was a place of increased power. An example of this is Stonehenge where many believe the sacred stone circle was built on a power center created by crossing ley (dragon) lines.
Dragons were so revered by the Celts that they were adopted as a symbol of the power of the chieftain. In fact, the Celtic name for chieftain is “Pendragon”.
The Celtic dragon is also a symbol of the military.
Celtic Dragon Mythology
Dragons appear throughout Celtic Mythology. They act as guardians of wisdom and knowledge, possessing great vision and the power of prophecy. Dragons united the earth and sky, and guarded treasures and the gates to other worlds.
Celtic Dragon Symbolism in Art
Celtic artwork often depicts dragons swallowing their tail, forming a never-ending circle reminiscent of the never-ending knot in the Celtic tree of life. Just as the never-ending knot represents eternal life, so does the Celtic dragon swallowing its tale.
Dragons in Celtic Astrology
The Green Dragon is the animal sign for those born January 21 – February 17. The Celts believed that the Green Dragon breathed fire that had the power to purify and give new life.
Celtic Dragon Tattoos
Celtic dragon tattoos typically depict the dragon as a mythical winged beast. However, the Celts thought dragons looked like worms or water serpents.
Celtic dragon tattoos often symbolized wisdom and power.
Books on Celtic Dragons
Celtic Dragon Tarot brings dragons to life, providing meanings and symbolism for each dragon.
The Celtic Golden Dawn goes beyond just dragons by providing a complete curriculum on Celtic wisom.
Celtic Dragon Myth covers myths and legends
Recommended Books on Animal Meanings
Animal Speak teaches you how to recognize and understand the meanings of animals, birds, reptiles and insects.
Animal Spirit Guides covers the meaning of 200 animals that can appear to you as spirit guides.
Arthurian Tarot – The images are based on Celtic symbolism and the book provides Celtic meanings for each animal.
Animal-wise is a classic reference covering the meanings of a wide range of animals, including mythical creatures, like unicorns.
