Nechtan: The Water Deity of Celtic Mythology
Previously, we explored the figure of Boann, the goddess associated with rivers and wells. Now, let’s delve into her counterpart, the Celtic deity Nechtan. This god is often viewed through various lenses within Celtic mythology, but here we will specifically focus on the narratives that refer to him as Nechtan. While he is positioned somewhat between the more prominent members of the Tuatha de Danann and lesser gods, he embodies significant aspects of the mythos.
Keeper of Wisdom
Known as the Keeper of Wisdom, Nechtan should not be mistaken for a god of wisdom himself. In ancient Gaelic stories, he is entrusted with the protection of the Tobar Segais, or the Well of Wisdom.
Surrounding this sacred well are nine hazelnut trees, with their nuts falling into the water, consumed annually by pure red salmon that reside there. These fish are considered embodiments of knowledge; it is said that anyone consuming the nuts or the salmon would gain boundless wisdom. This crucial distinction highlights that Nechtan does not embody knowledge but instead safeguards it. Access to the well is restricted to Nechtan and his cupbearers alone.
His role as the guardian of the well was appointed by the Dagda, another major deity within the Tuatha de Danann. There exist notable parallels between this narrative and the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil from Christian mythology. The Dagda’s rationale for Nechtan’s guardianship lies in the belief that knowledge, if wielded by either excessively virtuous or wicked individuals, could lead to widespread disorder among humankind. The Tuatha de Danann aimed to maintain balance in both humanity and the world’s energies. This interpretation forms one of many versions surrounding Nechtan’s guardianship.
Nechtan and Boann
In our earlier discussion about Boann, we explored her romantic entanglement with the Dagda, after which she sought to cleanse her indiscretions at the well. In the version we will examine now, her attempt sees her submerging herself in the Well of Wisdom. Due to the protective nature surrounding this well, the outcome for Boann is dire.
There are two primary accounts of subsequent events: one suggests that the well devours her, while the other indicates that Nechtan commands the well to take her. In both tales, she transforms into a salmon upon drowning. Another variation narrates that the well overflows, leading to the emergence of the River Boyne. A less favorable account depicts Nechtan boiling her alive, resulting in her transformation into the river, a notion that is somewhat difficult to embrace.
In a cherished retelling, Nechtan, in a moment of frustration, eats a hazelnut from one of the trees. This act grants him a deeper understanding of his role as the keeper of wisdom, transforming him into a more somber figure within Celtic lore, earning the title of the Sad King in various versions. His newfound wisdom provides insights into the dangers of knowledge, as well as the sorrow stemming from his beloved wife’s actions.
An old saying that originated from this tale states, “Go nuts like Nechtan,” which loosely translates to “sad nut.” Referring to someone as a “sad nut” has parallels to how folks in the Southern United States might refer to eccentric characters, though it remains a less common phrase.
Nechtan’s narrative is deeply tragic; his profound love for Boann is evident throughout the mythology. While her actions may not fully warrant his wrath, the anguish he feels compels him to take drastic measures against her. Interestingly, in a variation of their lore, Nechtan is presented as her father, which shifts the implications of the Dagda fathering her child yet again.
In summary, the stories of Nechtan and Boann reflect themes of love, loss, and the complexities of wisdom, intertwining the fates of these two significant mythological figures.
