The Celtic deity Belenus was renowned as one of the most venerated gods during his era. Shrines dedicated to him have been uncovered throughout Europe, and historical accounts from the 3rd century denote him as the guardian deity of Aquileia, an Italian city. In England, insights into the veneration of Belenus can be seen through the name of the Celtic King Cunobeline, who governed a substantial portion of Southeastern England before the Roman invasion; his name translates to ‘Hound of Belenus.’
Belenus is known by various monikers. Some scholars propose that the name Belenus stems from a Latin adaptation of Beli. Other names that have emerged in connection with him include Bel, Belen, Belinus, Belenos, and Bellinus. His designation is frequently interpreted as signifying ‘Bright One’ or ‘Shining One,’ deriving from the Proto-Indo-European root ‘bhel,’ which means ‘to shine.’ This connotation aligns with the belief that he embodied solar attributes. However, an alternative theory suggests that his name may originate from a Proto-Celtic term related to ‘source’ or ‘well,’ hinting at associations with healing springs.
While many assert that Belenus was undoubtedly a solar deity, some sources express skepticism about him being specifically a Sun God. Notably, artifacts, including a model horse and chariot adorned with a sun-disc, were excavated in Denmark, and are considered representations of Belenus. Such findings bolster the notion of him being a solar figure. Personally, my own experiences during meditation and spiritual work resonate with his identity as a Sun God, making it challenging for me to entertain different interpretations.
Belenus was believed to traverse the skies in a chariot drawn by horses. Numerous clay horse figurines linked to shrines in his honor reinforce this imagery. The wheel symbolizes both time and healing—elements consistent with his solar associations. Artistic depictions of Belenus have shown him riding a horse, wielding lightning bolts, and using a wheel as a shield. It is plausible that he was viewed as a warrior deity, closely tied to themes of protection. An account describes Roman soldiers during the siege of Aquileia witnessing a manifestation of Belenus in the sky, as if guarding the city.
The fire festival known as Beltane, often connected with Belenus, was significant for farmers as they would lead their livestock between two flames as a purification rite prior to summer grazing.
The wheel symbolizes time, mirroring his connection to the sun, but also suggests a link to healing, akin to the medicine wheel. This potential connection, alongside the possibilities of his name relating to sacred springs, and his close affiliation with the Roman god Apollo, indicate Belenus might have also held healing capabilities. He appears particularly associated with the regeneration of limbs, as artifacts resembling limbs were often found at his sacred sites—either as petitions or expressions of gratitude for healing received.
In my experience, Belenus has proven helpful in addressing emotional and mental struggles such as sadness or anxiety. Envisioning him channeling the vibrant energy of the sun during meditation has been especially beneficial during challenging times.
Historical tokens, including a coin from 1 AD, depict Belenus with a prominent mustache, large brown eyes, and hair resembling rays of sunshine. Additionally, a piece of carved jewelry from France presents him as an elderly figure donned in a tunic adorned with solar motifs and inscriptions. Other images portray him alongside a female consort, thought to be the goddess Belisama.
I engage with Belenus primarily as a Sun God, incorporating him into seasonal celebrations and solar rituals. As a deity possibly revered in my region centuries ago, I feel a profound connection. I find that meaningful offerings to Belenus might include candle lighting, heartfelt prayers, or even libations of water. Although I do not regularly invoke him outside significant occasions, he serves as a comforting presence for anyone seeking solace and illumination in their lives.
