Belenos: The Gaulish God of Light
Belenos, pronounced BEL-en-ohs, holds a prominent place within Gaulish mythology, symbolizing brightness and radiance. He is sometimes referred to as Beli or Belinus and is identified with Apollo through Roman interpretations. The etymology of his name suggests a connection to light, with “beli” signifying shining; however, linguists propose it might also link to “belisa,” a term related to henbane, a psychoactive plant.
Attributes and Associations
Belenos has been theorized to be the deity patronizing Beltane, celebrated on the First of May. Julius Caesar himself noted that this celebration may have been attributed to Apollo. Notably, ancient texts like Cormac’s Glossary mention the practice of driving cattle between two bonfires during Beltane for purification purposes. The reference indicates that Belenos’ name and attributes might connect with cattle, echoing the agricultural significance of these rituals.
In addition to associations with cattle, other historical accounts position Belenos in a prophetic role, reminiscent of Apollo’s renowned oracle at Delphi. His name potentially links him to Mars Belatucadros, or “Mars the Shining One.” Although Belenus is aligned with Apollo and Belatucadros with Mars, it is essential to decipher the nuances without letting interpretatio Romana obscure their intrinsic characteristics.
Worship Sites
Dedicated to Belenus, the healing wells at Sainte-Sabine in Burgundy underline his importance in local worship. Various inscriptions acknowledging Belenos have surfaced in places such as Aquileia, Provence, Nîmes, and Italy, depicting him in various forms. Noteworthy examples include his representation as an elderly man in a tunic, illustrating the reverence held for him in different regions. A multitude of inscriptions in Gaul further emphasizes his widespread veneration across ancient Celtic territories.
Historical Commentary
Belenos resonates strongly in both Roman and Christian historical contexts. Tertullian documented his worship among the Norici tribe in modern-day Austria. Additionally, Ausonius, a Gallo-Roman poet, references druids and a priest of Belenus from Bordeaux, highlighting the syncretic nature of cultural ideologies during this period.
In the chronicles of Herodian concerning the siege of Aquileia in 238 AD, a miraculous appearance attributed to Belenos reportedly brought reassurance to the city’s defenders. Allowed to witness the preservation of their hometown, residents claimed that Belenos appeared similar to the famed Angel of Mons in World War I, contributing to the city’s survival against overwhelming odds.
Legacy and Influence
In medieval narratives, Belenos evolves into Beli Mawr (Beli the Great), impacting various regional myths, most notably in “The History of the Kings of Britain.” Here, he is depicted as a sibling to Brennius and is involved in inter-tribal conflicts, possibly echoing historical allegiances and rivalries from older Celtic stories. Geographical references remain, including the name Beligna in Italy and a potential link to Bérenton in Brittany.
In summary, Belenos embodies a convergence of celestial and earthly elements, illustrating the rich tapestry of Gaulish mythology and its enduring influence throughout history.
