The Tuatha Dé Danann returned to Éireann, leaving behind their four great cities, embracing a collective identity to traverse back to their ancestral homeland. Their arrival was foretold by Cesard, a wizard of the Fir Bolg, who ominously prophesied:
“Warriors are coming across the sea, a thousand heroes covering the ocean; speckled ships will press in upon us; all kinds of death they announce, a people skilled in every art, a magic spell; . . . they will be victorious in every stress.”
But what kind of leader could emerge from such a legendary tribe of heroes, skilled craftsmen, and magical practitioners? What qualities must one possess to guide their people from oppression into a new homeland?
The answer lies in Nuada of the Silver Arm, also known as Nuada Airgetlám.
Names and Etymology
Nuada’s name appears in various spellings within Irish literature such as Nuadha, Nuadea, and Nuadai, a common phenomenon as oral tales transitioned into written form. Despite the variations, they all refer to this singular deity. The linguistic origins of his name are intricate; some scholars interpret it to mean ‘cloudmaker’ or ‘catcher’, deriving from a blend of Indo-European and Proto-Indo-European languages. However, since these interpretations are reconstructions of ancient tongues, they may not fully capture the original meaning.
Moreover, these root words are sometimes linked to another Irish deity, Nechtan, who was associated with rivers and water, sharing a married relationship with Boann. This connection also points towards Brú na Boinne, known today as Newgrange, and another figure named Elcmar. While there may be intriguing linguistic connections, excessive assumptions should be avoided.
What is universally recognized is Nuada’s notable epithet Airgetlám, which translates to ‘silver hand’ or ‘arm’. Unlike the figurative term ‘silver tongue’ which describes a persuasive speaker, Nuada’s silver arm represents an actual prosthetic. This was fashioned for him after being mortally wounded by Shreng, the champion of the Fir Bolg, during the first battle of Moytura. Though he survived, the injury disqualified him from kingship due to the blemish on his form. A crafted replacement arm was made by Credne, the God of metalwork, and Dian Cecht, the God of healing. This remarkable prosthetic was said to possess ‘the Vigour of every hand in it’, thereby enabling full motion similar to his original limb.
Role in Celtic Mythology
When exploring the essence of Irish deities, it is common to inquire about their specific domains. The Irish pantheon lacks definitive roles; however, individual preferences and influences can often be identified. To understand such nuances, one needs to delve deeper into the stories surrounding these deities.
Nuada, like the rest of the Tuatha Dé Danann, traces his lineage back to the Nemed tribe, which once inhabited Ireland. The sons of Nemed were forced to leave the island due to foreign tyranny. Leading this group of exiles was Beotach ‘of the clear-spoken judgments’ Mac Nemed, who guided them to the distant ‘islands of the north and west’. During their absence from Ireland, this group not only multiplied but also refined their craftsmanship, heroics, and druidic skills, ultimately returning as the united Tuatha Dé Danann.
When interpreting the prophetic dreams of the Fir Bolg king, it becomes evident that this new tribe is characterized by dozens of heroes, each excelling in various forms of art. The fact that Nuada was chosen as the first king to lead this illustrious assembly into their ancestral land speaks volumes about his qualities and capabilities.
Warrior
Nuada is renowned as one of the fiercest warriors of his people. His experience includes not just participation but also leadership in numerous battles. He was chosen to wield the legendary ‘Cliabh Solais’ or sword of light, one of the four great treasures from Gorias that the tribe carried with them on their journey. This potent weapon was reputed to be so formidable that once unsheathed, it guaranteed victory.
Upon their arrival in Ireland, Nuada extended olive branches towards the Fir Bolg champion, seeking peace and coexistence. However, when his diplomatic efforts were rejected, Nuada committed himself to conflict while ensuring that it focused on valor and skill rather than mere strategic advantage. The two tribes exchanged craftsmen to enhance their combat techniques, culminating in a fair and honorable fight.
When the time for battle arrived, Nuada was at the forefront, personally facing the grueling challenges of war, sustaining injuries along the way. Although he suffered physically, his wisdom led to a peace accord that granted the Fir Bolg their rightful lands in the western part of the island.
King
Nuada established himself as both the inaugural king of the Tuatha Dé Danann and, due to unforeseen circumstances, their third ruler. Following the conflict with the Fir Bolg, his debilitating injury rendered him unfit for kingship, a situation exploited by Bres who took his place. While many anticipated Bres would mediate peace, his reign resulted in turmoil, as he favored his father’s people, the Fomorians, at the expense of the Tuatha Dé Danann.
In a turn of fate, through the miraculous abilities of Miach, son of Dian Cecht, Nuada’s arm was restored, erasing the blemish that once barred him from leadership. With Bres’s downfall fueled by his own poor decisions, the people clamored for Nuada’s return.
Judge
In Ireland, a king’s role transcends mere title; they are ambassadors of safety, fairness, and hospitality to their people. An effective king was often seen as wed to the land, ensuring prosperity and abundance.
Nuada demonstrated his wisdom in rulership by voluntarily stepping aside once more in favor of Lugh, who he discerned would better equip the tribe for the looming Fomorian threat. Consequently, Nuada organized a war council composed of formidable members from the tribe. This signifies not only a warrior preparing for conflict but a king genuinely concerned for his people’s welfare.
His fate during the second battle of Moytura is noted, where it is believed that both Nuada and his wife, Macha, fell.
Physical Appearance
Descriptions of deities within Irish mythology often rely on allegorical language, making it challenging to convey their physical attributes with certainty. We find limited references regarding Nuada’s appearance, typically veiled in metaphor.
When Eochaid, the Fir Bolg king, recounted his vision, he referred to “a great flock of black birds” descending from the sea, emphasizing a striking image where a noble one among them was injured. The color ‘black’ could symbolize Nuada, but interpretations are subjective, often focusing on the essence of the figure rather than specific traits.
From prior insights, it can be inferred that Nuada likely manifests as a formidable warrior, equipped with the physique necessary to wield his mighty sword adeptly. However, one notable takeaway is the understanding that despite his physical restoration, the scars of pain and loss remain an integral part of his identity.
Contemporary Relevance of Nuada of the Silver Arm
Nuada stands as an immigrant symbol, returning to the land of his forebears. His leadership is built upon a foundation of sound judgment and a firm belief in serving not for self-gain but for the welfare of his tribe.
He embodies the harrowing journey of loss and triumph, not merely in status but through tangible pain inflicted upon his body. His experiences shaped him, yet he does not allow bitterness or resentment to overshadow his dedication to his people.
Nuada emerges as the exemplary hero that inspires loyalty and respect, embodying the noble qualities that make him one to follow.
What’s Next?
If you find the tale of Nuada of the Silver Arm intriguing and wish to explore the depths of Irish mythology further, consider engaging with:
– Relevant online platforms and educational resources centered on Irish paganism.
– Classes or workshops focusing on Celtic deities and their narratives.
