The Witch's and Druids Den

Datiesti uta dassân, datiûmî uta dassais
“You give that I may give. I give that you may give.”

Addatus, or offerings, are ceremonial gifts made to the Dêuoi (deities) and Senoatîs (ancestors). These offerings are a way to express our gratitude, praise, and reverence. They stem from a recognition that everything is sacred and deserving of honor. This goes into what most of us call Cantos Râti (The Gifting Circle). Cantos Râti is a fundamental concept in interactions with the Dêuoi. It involves giving offerings in a ritualistic manner, creating a reciprocal relationship where the recipient may also give. This exchange is not merely transactional but aims to deepen the connection between the giver and the receiver.

What we know of offerings that the Gauls gave is shrouded in the mist’s of the past. But through archeological studies and comparative studies we can glimpse through the mist to uncover fragment’s.

The Archeological Mist

Animal sacrifices were a common form of offering, often conducted during religious ceremonies. The types of animals sacrificed varied, including cattle, sheep, pigs, and horses. These sacrifices were typically made to appease or honor the gods, and the remains were sometimes buried or deposited in sacred sites, such as pits, rivers, or lakes. Human Sacrifices although less common, there is evidence from both ancient texts and archaeological findings that human sacrifices were part of certain Gaulish rituals. These sacrifices were usually performed in times of great need, such as during war or crises, and were intended to secure divine favor or avert disaster. Offerings of weapons and armor were made, particularly after military victories. These items were often ritually broken or decommissioned before being deposited in sacred lakes, rivers, or other bodies of water. This practice symbolized the surrendering of martial power to the gods. Offerings of food and drink were common, with evidence of feasting and the sharing of meals as part of religious rituals. Bread, grain, fruit, and wine were typical offerings, often left in sacred spaces or at altars. The consumption of these offerings by the community was also a way to commune with the gods. The deposition of coins and jewelry in rivers, lakes, and bogs is well-documented in Gaulish culture. These valuable items were offered to the gods, often as votive offerings in the hope of receiving blessings, protection, or as a thank you for favors received. Votive statues and figurines made of wood, stone, or metal were dedicated to specific deities. These items were placed in sanctuaries, temples, or other sacred locations, representing a personal connection or devotion to a particular god or goddess. Items such as torcs (neck rings), fibulae (brooches), and other personal belongings were sometimes offered. These items were often buried or placed in sacred wells or pits. Organic materials like clothing or textiles could also have been offered, although these are less likely to survive in the archaeological record. Some offerings were accompanied by inscriptions or dedications carved into stone or wood, expressing the intent of the offering or the gratitude of the worshipper. These inscriptions often mention specific gods or goddesses and provide valuable insights into the religious practices of the Gauls.

We have mention of bread and wine from Pliny

Similar to savin is the plant called selago. It is gathered without using iron and by passing the right hand through the left sleeve of the tunic, as though in the act of committing a theft. The clothing must be white, the feet washed and bare, and an offering of wine and bread made before the gathering.

Pliny, “Nat. Hist.”, xxiv, 103 – 104

These offerings show the importance of reciprocity in Gaulish religion, where gifts to the gods were believed to ensure their favor and maintain balance between the divine and human realms.

The Comparitive Mist

Offerings similar to those in Greek culture, such as giving wheat or burning herbs and resins, likely played a part of the Gauls sacred traditions. These more everyday offerings are much easer to give.

The Gauls could have offered grains, particularly wheat, as part of their religious ceremonies. Wheat and other cereals could be scattered on altars, placed in sacred spaces, or burned in ritual fires as an offering to the gods. These offerings could be viewed as symbolic of sustenance and fertility, reflecting the importance of agriculture. Burning herbs is a common practice in many ancient cultures. Specific herbs associated with certain deities or qualities might be burned to invoke blessings, purification, or protection. Herbs like *mistletoe*, which hold special significance in our Druidic rituals, or other local plants like *yarrow* or *mugwort*, could have been used in such offerings. The use of resins, such as *frankincense* or *myrrh*, might have been less common in Gaul due to the lack of native production, but it’s likely that locally available resins or fragrant woods were burned as offerings. *Pine resin* or *oak* might have been used, particularly considering the sacred status of oak trees in Gaulish culture. Honey was another common offering in many ancient cultures, it was likely used in both liquid form and as an ingredient in food offerings. Honey can symbolize sweetness, preservation, and the favor of the gods. Wine and Mead while more commonly associated with ritual feasting, small libations of wine or mead could be poured out as offerings to the gods. These drinks were linked to celebration, abundance, and the divine.

“I’d like to share with you the core offerings I always keep on hand, each rich with symbolism and deep meaning in my practice:

Mistletoe: A revered plant in Druidic tradition, it connects us to healing, protection, and the ancestors, serving as a bridge between the mortal and divine realms.”

Amber: A symbol of the sun, life force, and ancient wisdom, it holds a sacred connection to the gods and the cycles of transformation.

Red Wine: Representing vitality, celebration, and the blood of the earth, it is a powerful offering to honor the divine and express gratitude.

Wheat: Symbolizing abundance, nourishment, and the cycle of life, wheat reflects the earth’s sustenance and the balance of giving and receiving.

Amber
In my practice I have come to offer Amber, with its warm, golden glow and ancient origins, it was highly valued among the Gauls, not just as a material for jewelry and carvings but also for its mystical properties. The associations of amber with deities like the Celtic Apollo and Ogmios elevate its status as a potent offering of mine.

Amber was widely traded and cherished in ancient Gaul, found in various forms, from beads to intricately carved amulets. Its presence in burial sites and sacred spaces indicates that it held a significant spiritual value, likely connected to the sun, warmth, and life force. The myth of Apollo’s tears turning into amber adds a divine resonance to the material. As Apollo was associated with the sun, music, and prophecy, offering amber symbolizes a connection to these qualities—seeking clarity, guidance, and the favor of the divine. Ogmios, was said to lead his followers with chains of gold and amber, symbolizing the power of eloquence and persuasion. Burning amber as an offering invokes Ogmios’ gifts of wisdom, eloquence, and the ability to lead and inspire. Burning amber as an offering releases its sweet, resinous scent, symbolizing the release of energy and prayers to the gods. The act of burning something so ancient and precious is my way of honoring the gods with a piece of the earth’s history, representing eternal life and the cycle of transformation.

Wine
Sucellos is a powerful god associated with the earth’s bounty, particularly in his role as a protector of crops and a bringer of plenty. Red wine, being a product of the vine and a symbol of the earth’s fertility, aligns with him. By offering red wine, Im honoring Sucellos’ role in the cycle of growth, harvest, and nourishment. Red wine has long been a symbol of life, vitality, and blood, making it a potent offering to a god like Sucellos who oversees life’s essential processes. The deep red color of the wine represents the life force, strength, and the nourishing aspect of the land, all of which are under Sucellos’ guardianship. Pouring libations is a was common practice in many ancient cultures, including the Gauls. Libations served as a way to give back to the gods a portion of what they provided. Offering red wine, is a way of returning the earth’s bounty to its divine source, seeking blessings for future abundance and protection. Wine was often consumed during feasts and celebrations, which were themselves acts of worship and communal bonding in Gaulish society. Offering red wine, im not only invoking Sucellos’ favor but also participating in a tradition that reflects joy, community, and the sacredness of life. Using red wine as my core offering is a beautiful and versatile practice, especially given its deep connections to both the divine and the natural world. Whether poured as a libation during a ritual, offered at an altar, or shared in communal celebration, red wine serves as a bridge between the material and spiritual realms. It’s a gesture of gratitude, a way to honor the gods, and a means of fostering a deeper connection to the cycles of nature and the divine forces that guide them.

Wheat
Wheat and oats represent the bounty of the earth, the harvest, and the nourishment provided by the gods. Offering these grains is a way of acknowledging and honoring the forces of nature that sustain life. It’s also a form of gratitude for the abundance received and a plea for continued fertility and prosperity. Both wheat and oats were essential crops in Gaulish culture. By offering them, I connect directly with the agricultural roots of the Gauls, recognizing the sacredness of the harvest and the labor involved in cultivating these grains. This also ties into the worship of deities associated with the earth and agriculture, like Sucellos and Nantosuelta. Grains like wheat and oats were often offered to the gods in various forms—scattered on altars, buried in sacred spaces, or burned in ritual fires. These offerings are not only symbolic of the earth’s gifts but also practical, as they could be left in nature to nourish animals or enrich the soil, embodying the cycle of giving and receiving. As a core offering, wheat or oats can be used in many different rituals, from simple daily devotions to more elaborate ceremonies. They can be left at altars, sprinkled in sacred spaces, or offered in combination with other elements like wine or herbs, making them a versatile and powerful component to my practice.

Mistletoe
Burning mistletoe is another core offering of mine which holds deep significance, especially considering its revered status among the Druids and its association with healing, protection, and connection to the ancestors. Mistletoe, particularly when found growing on oak trees, was considered sacred by the Druids. It symbolizes life, regeneration, and the divine essence within nature. The act of gathering mistletoe is highly ritualized, believed to bestow healing and protection upon those who received it. By burning mistletoe, I honor its sacred nature and align myself with the ancient practices of the Druids. Mistletoe is also a link to the ancestors, a living connection between the past and present. The Druids, known as mediators between the living and the spirit world, saw mistletoe as a sacred plant that bridged the mortal and divine. Burning mistletoe serves as an offering to the ancestors, invoking their guidance, protection, and blessings. Offering mistletoe through fire is seen as a plea for healing—whether for oneself, one’s community, or the natural world. When burned, mistletoe releases its essence into the air, symbolizing the release of prayers and energy to the divine and the ancestors. The act of burning such a sacred plant can represent purification, protection, and the renewal of life. It is a gift of healing energy, returning to the cosmos with intentions of well-being and balance.

In my practice, burning mistletoe is a practice that not only aligns with ancient rites but also infuses my devotion with the deep symbolism of healing, protection, and spiritual connection. Through the sacred smoke, my offering reaches the realms of both gods and ancestors, linking me to the wisdom and strength of those who came before.

When starting your practice keep it simple. As you develop a deeper connection with the Dêuoi, you’ll discover more specific items they favor, such as particular incenses or wines. Offerings should reflect the attributes of the deity being honored. Don’t worry about being perfect at the beginning; your understanding will grow over time. Offerings can be made for various reasons, including celebrating holidays, daily devotion, requesting favors, or expressing general love for the Dêuoi. Create a space for your your Uentâ, which is a dedicated space where offerings are made sacred. Set up a Uentâ (Altar) by decorating it with statues, paintings, and other symbols that resonate with the Dêuoi and start The Gifting Circle.

Below is a list of offerings that I frequently give in my practice, each embodying layers of symbolic meaning.

Sucellos

• Domain: Agriculture, forests, fertility, abundance
• Offerings:
  • Red wine: Symbolizing the fruits of the earth.
  • Wheat or oats: Representing the harvest and fertility.
  • Wooden carvings or tools: Honoring his role as a protector of forests and a god of craftsmanship.
  • Amber: Representing the warmth of the earth and Sucellos’ connection to life.

Nantosuelta

• Domain: Home, hearth, fertility, rivers
• Offerings:
  • Honey or milk: Symbolizing nourishment and fertility.
  • Bread or cakes: Representing the sustenance provided by the hearth.
  • Flowers or herbs: Especially those associated with the home or healing, such as rosemary or thyme.
  • Clay or earthenware items: Honoring her connection to the earth and the domestic sphere.

Taranos

• Domain: Thunder, storms, sky, protection
• Offerings:
  • Oak leaves or acorns: Sacred to Taranos, symbolizing strength and endurance.
  • Iron objects: Reflecting his power and strength, as iron was a valued metal in Gaulish culture.
  • Burnt offerings of meat: Especially from animals like bulls or boars, which were symbols of strength.
  • Torches or candles: Representing lightning and his role as a sky god.

Carnonos

• Domain: Liminal spaces, nature, fertility, the wild
• Offerings:
  • Dried jasmine: Represents tranquility and the in-between states.
  • Forest finds: Such as rocks, acorns, and nuts, symbolizing the natural world.
  • Brandy or scotch: Acknowledge the deeper, darker aspects of nature and liminality.
  • Dark liquors: Honor the mysterious and untamed aspects of his domain.
  • Seasonal blackberries: Reflecting the cycles of nature.
  • Vanilla-scented candles: Enhance the connection to liminal spaces and transitions.
  • Rare coins: Symbolizing the crossing of boundaries and the value of the in-between.
  • Homemade bread: Represents sustenance and the nurturing aspect of nature.

Epona

• Domain: Horses, fertility, travel, protection
• Offerings:
  • Apples: Symbolizing health, protection, and fertility.
  • Oats or barley: Representing nourishment for horses and the earth.
  • Horse figurines: Honoring her connection to horses and travel.
  • Water: Especially from springs or rivers, as a symbol of life and travel.

Lugus

• Domain: Light, crafts, war, trade
• Offerings:
  • Coins: Reflecting his association with trade and commerce.
  • Tools or weapons: Honoring his skills in crafts and warfare.
  • Honey or mead: Symbolizing the sweetness of success and the rewards of hard work.
  • Candles or torches: Representing light and illumination.

Sirona

• Domain: Healing, stars, waters, fertility
• Offerings:
  • Herbs: Particularly those associated with healing, like mint or yarrow.
  • Spring water or well water: Reflecting her connection to healing waters.
  • Silver items or jewelry: Representing the stars and her celestial nature.
  • Small stones or crystals: Symbolizing healing and the earth’s energy.

Teutates

• Domain: War, protection, the tribe
• Offerings:
  • Weapons or tools: Reflecting his role as a protector and warrior.
  • Meat: Particularly from animals like bulls, representing strength and sacrifice.
  • Beer or ale: Symbolizing camaraderie and the tribe’s spirit.
  • Red cloth: Representing war, blood, and protection.

Rosmerta

• Domain: Prosperity, abundance, fertility
• Offerings:
  • Coins or money: Symbolizing wealth and prosperity.
  • Bread or cakes: Representing abundance and fertility.
  • Wine or honey: Reflecting the sweetness of life and Rosmerta’s blessings.
  • Flowers: Especially those associated with abundance, like roses or wheat sheaves.

Brigantia

• Domain: Protection, healing, craftsmanship, warfare
• Offerings:
  • Iron objects: Symbolizing her role in warfare and craftsmanship.
  • Herbs: Particularly those with protective or healing properties, like chamomile or lavender.
  • Crafted items: Honoring her as a goddess of skill and craftsmanship.
  • Milk: Symbolizing nourishment and healing.

Belenus

• Domain: Sun, light, healing
• Offerings:
  • Sunflower seeds or yellow flowers: Symbolizing the sun and light.
  • Honey or mead: Representing warmth and healing.
  • Candles or torches: Reflecting his association with light.
  • Spring water: For purification and healing.

Abnoba

• Domain: Wilderness, mountains, rivers
• Offerings:
  • Wild berries or nuts: Representing the bounty of the wilderness.
  • Mountain herbs: Such as thyme or mountain arnica.
  • Small stones or pebbles: From rivers or mountains.
  • Animal tracks or feathers: Symbolizing her connection to wildlife.

Maponus

• Domain: Youth, music, healing
• Offerings:
  • Fruit or sweet treats: Symbolizing vitality and youth.
  • Musical instruments: Such as a small flute or drum.
  • Herbs: Known for their healing properties, like mint or sage.
  • Youthful symbols: Items associated with youth and play.

Epona

• Domain: Horses, fertility, travel, protection
• Offerings:
  • Apples or carrots: Symbolizing care for horses.
  • Horse figurines: Honoring her connection to horses.
  • Barley or oats: Nourishment for horses and fertility.
  • Travel charms: Representing protection and safe journeys.

Taranos

• Domain: Thunder, storms, justice
• Offerings:
  • Iron objects: Reflecting his power and connection to storms.
  • Thunderstones: Natural stones that resemble thunder.
  • Meat: Especially from larger animals like bulls.
  • Blue or grey cloth: Symbolizing the stormy sky.

Rosmerta

• Domain: Prosperity, abundance, fertility
• Offerings:
  • Coins or small amounts of money: Representing wealth.
  • Bread, fruits, or sweets: Symbolizing abundance.
  • Wine or honey: Reflecting prosperity and sweetness.
  • Cornucopia symbols: Representing overflowing abundance.

Brigantia

• Domain: Protection, healing, craftsmanship, warfare
• Offerings:
  • Crafted items: Honoring her as a goddess of skill.
  • Herbs with healing properties: Such as lavender or rosemary.
  • Iron tools or weapons: Reflecting her role in warfare and craftsmanship.
  • Protective charms: For safety and strength.

Smertrios

• Domain: War, strength, protection
• Offerings:
  • Weapons or shields: Symbolizing his role in warfare.
  • Red wine or strong drinks: Representing strength and bravery.
  • Meat from game animals: Reflecting his association with hunting and war.
  • Victory symbols: Such as laurels or trophies.

Nodens

• Domain: Healing, hunting, the sea
• Offerings:
  • Shells or seaweed: Representing his connection to the sea.
  • Fishing gear or small fish figures: Symbolizing hunting and fishing.
  • Herbs with healing properties: Such as calendula or thyme.
  • Coins or small tokens: Often used in healing and votive offerings.

Sulis

• Domain: Healing, sacred springs
• Offerings:
  • Coins: Often left in sacred springs as offerings.
  • Water from sacred or natural springs: Representing healing properties.
  • Herbs known for their medicinal uses: Such as yarrow or willow bark.
  • Small vessels or cups: Used for pouring water or herbal infusions.

Matres

• Domain: Motherhood, fertility, protection
• Offerings:
  • Milk or honey: Symbolizing nourishment and fertility.
  • Small gifts or tokens: Such as small clay figurines or amulets.
  • Bread or cakes: Representing sustenance and abundance.
  • Herbs known for fertility and protection: Like sage or rosemary.

Nemetona

• Domain: Sacred groves, trees, protection
• Offerings:
  • Tree branches or leaves: Symbolizing her connection to sacred groves and nature.
  • Incense or resin: Such as frankincense or myrrh, representing purification and the sacred.
  • Seeds or nuts: Reflecting the bounty and fertility of sacred groves.
  • Handcrafted items: Like small wooden carvings or offerings made from natural materials.
  • Candles or small fires: Honoring the sacred space and providing light in nature.

Ogmios

• Domain: Eloquence, wisdom, communication, and possibly the underworld
• Offerings:
  • Wax tablets or scrolls: Symbolizing knowledge and written communication.
  • Pen or ink: Reflecting his association with eloquence and writing.
  • Olive oil or honey: Often used in ancient rituals as offerings for wisdom and eloquence.
  • Sacred texts or symbols of knowledge: Items related to learning and wisdom.
  • Candles or lamps: Representing illumination and the spread of wisdom.

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Sources

Green, Miranda. The Gods of the Celts. Sutton Publishing, 1997.
Green, Miranda. The Celtic World. Routledge, 1995.
Green, Miranda. Dying for the Gods: Human Sacrifice in Iron Age & Roman Europe. Tempus, 2001.
Green, Miranda. The World of the Druids. Thames & Hudson, 1997.
Green, Miranda. Symbol and Image in Celtic Religious Art. Routledge, 1989.
Ross, Anne. Pagan Celtic Britain. Routledge & Kegan Paul, 1967.
Cunliffe, Barry. The Ancient Celts. Penguin Books, 1997.
Caesar, Julius. Commentarii de Bello Gallico (The Gallic Wars), Book VI.
Pliny the Elder. Natural History, Book XVI.

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