The Deities of Celtic Mythology: The Tuatha de Danann

The Deities of the Tuatha de Danann

• Aengus
  Also recognized as Oengus, Aengus Og, or Aengus mac Og, this god is linked to themes of love and creativity.

• Aine
  A goddess of the Tuatha de Danann, Aine embodies midsummer and the essence of sovereignty.

• Airmed
  Known for her healing abilities, Airmed is a goddess associated with medicinal herbs.

• Be Binn
  This goddess plays a pivotal role in childbirth and is also connected to the afterlife.

• Boann
  The mother of Aengus, begotten with the Dagda, Boann is affiliated with the Boyne River.

• Brigid
  Often called Brigit, Bride, or Brid, Brigid is the Dagda’s daughter, representing poetry, healing, and craftsmanship, especially in smithing.

• Cliodhna
  This goddess is celebrated for her beauty and love and is also associated with the mythical banshee.

• Creidhne
  A god known for his craftsmanship, specifically in goldsmithing. He is one of the three gods linked to the arts alongside Luchtaine and Goibniu.

• Dagda
  Renowned father figure in the Tuatha de Danann, the Dagda symbolizes abundance and strength, wielding a magical club and a cauldron that never empties.

• Danu/Anu
  Considered the mother of the Tuatha de Danann, Danu represents the land itself.

• Dian Cecht
  A god recognized for his exceptional healing skills.

• Donn
  This god is regarded as a figure of death and is seen as an ancestor of the Irish.

• Eithne
  The daughter of the Fomorian king Balor, she is also the mother of the hero Lugh.

• Etain
  Prominent in the tale “The Wooing of Etain,” this goddess undergoes numerous transformations.

• Fand
  Associated with both the ocean and the faerie realm, Fand is a goddess of the Tuatha de Danann.

• Fionnghula
  Known as a swan-maiden, she is the daughter of Lir.

• Flidais
  This goddess represents abundance, cattle, and the art of shapeshifting.

• Goibniu
  Another of the three artisan gods, Goibniu is specifically known for his smithing abilities.

• Lir
  Linked to the sea, Lir is also a prominent figure within the Tuatha de Danann.

• Luchtaine
  As a craftsman, Luchtaine is identified with woodworking and shares his status as one of the three artisan gods.

• Lugh
  Known as “Lugh Lamhfada” or Lugh of the Long Arm, he is a master of all arts and crafts, embodying excellence and skill.

• Manannan
  Called “Manannan mac Lir,” he is a significant figure linked to the sea and the afterlife, with strong connections to the Isle of Man.

• Medb
  Medb is associated with sovereignty and the pursuit of intoxication.

• Morrigan
  This goddess represents war and kingship within the pantheon.

• Nuada
  Known as “Nuada Airgetlamh” or Nuada of the Silver Arm, he is a distinguished god of the Tuatha de Danann.

• Ogma
  The creator of the Ogham script, Ogma is noted for his eloquence and wise communication.

• Tailtiu
  A significant figure, Tailtiu was the foster mother of Lugh. The festival Lughnasadh is celebrated in her honor, reflecting themes connected to agriculture.

• Tuireann
  As the son of Ogma, Tuireann is primarily recognized from the narrative “The Sons of Tuireann” and may have associations with thunder.

Summary

This overview of the gods and goddesses of the Tuatha de Danann highlights their diverse roles and associations within Celtic mythology, illustrating a rich tapestry of characteristics that reflect cultural values and beliefs.