Who Were the Druids?

The Druids were ancient religious leaders of the Celtic people. The Celts were spread throughout Gaul, Britain, Ireland and other parts of Europe, Asia Minor and even the Balkans around the 5th century BC.

They were highly respected in society. They were advisors to the kings. They were intellectual as well as poets, astronomers, magicians and astrologers. It took them 19 years to gain the necessary knowledge and skills in alchemy, medicine, law, the sciences and more. They were healers and were involved in developing strategies for war.

The Druids officiated over public and private sacrifices. Tribal assemblies were held on days vital in the agricultural year, the solstices as well as Beltane, May 1, and Samhain, November 1.

They settled disputes and issued punishment. Those who did not obey the decisions of the Druids were banished from the tribe.

Women as Druids

For centuries, there…