Nechtan: The Water Deity of Celtic Lore
Previously, we explored the figure of Boann, the goddess of rivers. Now, we shift our focus to her consort, the Celtic deity Nechtan. In Celtic mythology, Nechtan takes on various interpretations, but for our discussion, we will concentrate on the tales specifically naming him Nechtan. He occupies a unique position in the pantheon; neither quite ascending to the highest ranks of the Tuatha de Danann nor relegated to the lesser deities. For a deeper understanding of the origins of the Tuatha de Danann, refer back to earlier discussions.
Guardian of Wisdom
Nechtan is often titled the Guardian of Wisdom, distinct from the deity of knowledge. In ancient Gaelic narratives, he is entrusted with the care of the Tobar Segais, otherwise known as the Well of Knowledge.
Surrounding this sacred well are nine hazelnut trees, with their nuts cascading into the water, nourishing the exceptional red salmon that inhabit it—these fish known as the salmon of knowledge. The legend states that consuming either the nuts from these trees or the salmon from the well would grant one immeasurable wisdom. Hence, Nechtan is not explicitly regarded as the deity of knowledge; rather, he is the protector of wisdom, with only he and his designated attendants sanctioned to draw near the well.
His stewardship over the well was conferred by the Dagda, another prominent figure from Celtic lore. There exists a parallel between the Tree of Knowledge from the Garden of Eden in Christian tradition and Nechtan’s role in guarding the well. The Dagda’s decision to have Nechtan watch over it stems from the belief that knowledge can be perilous in the hands of the overly virtuous or wicked, potentially leading to upheaval for humankind. The Tuatha de Danann sought to maintain harmony between humanity and the greater cosmos, a key aim within differing cultural versions of the mythology, with this being a particular favorite of mine.
Nechtan and Boann
In our examination of Boann, we noted her passionate affair with the Dagda, leading her to the well in an attempt to cleanse herself of her wrongdoings. In one rendition of the lore, she makes the fateful decision to immerse herself in the Well of Knowledge. Given that only Nechtan and his attendants are permitted to approach it, this inevitably results in tragic consequences for Boann.
Several variations of this tale exist. In one, the well consumes her entirely, while in another, Nechtan commands its waters to engulf her. Regardless, Boann meets her demise in the well and is subsequently transformed into a salmon. In a different narrative, the well overflows, giving rise to the River Boyne. Yet another strange variation depicts Nechtan boiling her alive, leading to her becoming the river—a tale that feels particularly unsettling.
In a notably poignant version of the myth, Nechtan, in his solitude and frustration, takes a hazelnut from the tree and begins to consume it. This act endows him with wisdom, transforming him into a more sorrowful character within Celtic mythology. He earns the title of the Sad King in some retellings. This sorrow emerges from his newfound understanding of his duty as the guardian of knowledge and the importance of safeguarding it from those unworthy.
An old saying resonates within certain traditions: “Go nuts like Nechtan,” which conveys a sense of being a “sad nut.” This phrase mirrors the Southern American idiom, “That there’s a character.” Although not widely recognized, if you ever encounter it, you’ll know its origins.
Nechtan’s narrative is steeped in tragedy as he harbors deep love for his wife throughout their stories. While her betrayal is not entirely her fault, his wrath ultimately leads him to her demise. Interestingly, in one version of the mythology, he is revealed to be her father, prompting the suggestion that perhaps it was fortuitous the Dagda fathered her child instead.
