The gods of Ireland are complex and varied, a unique pantheon which doesn’t nearly fit comparisons with other better known religions. I’ve written a series of posts covering individual gods and will continue to develop more as my research progresses. Please see here for a detailed summary of the Irish gods themselves. You can also browse my infographics on the Irish gods.
Profiles on the Irish Gods
Who was the Irish god Nuada of the Silver Hand?
Nuada, the first king of the Tuatha Dé Danann, is a god of justice, sacrifice, and resilience. This post explores his myth, the meaning of his silver arm, and his enduring symbolism in Irish mythology and comparative traditions.
Who was the Irish god Balor of the Evil Eye?
Balor, the fearsome Irish god of destruction, was king of the Fomorians and bearer of the Evil Eye. Feared for his monstrous power, he stood against the Tuatha Dé Danann until prophecy — and his own grandson, Lugh — brought about his fall. This post explores Balor’s myth, role, and legacy.
Who was the Irish goddess Macha?
Macha is a goddess of war, endurance, and sovereignty in Irish myth. From her curse on Ulster’s warriors to her link with Emain Macha, this post explores her symbolic power, her suffering, and her enduring presence in Irish cultural memory and sacred geography.
Who is the Irish goddess Ériu?
Ériu is the goddess from whom Ireland takes its name. This post explores her mythological role in Irish tradition, her link to sovereignty and land, and how her legacy endures in the very identity of the country.
Who was the Irish goddess Brigid? Goddess of Fire & Fertility
Brigid, daughter of the Dagda, is one of Ireland’s most enduring goddesses. From fire and poetry to healing and springtime ritual, this post explores her mythological origins, sacred places, and her lasting role in Irish culture and belief.
Who is the Irish mother goddess Dana?
Dana (also called Danu) is the Irish earth-mother goddess and matriarch of the Tuatha Dé Danann. Learn about her origins, symbols, and enduring legacy in Celtic mythology.
Who is Manannán Mac Lir? Irish god of the Seas
Manannán Mac Lir is one of Celtic mythology’s most enigmatic figures – a powerful sea god and king of the otherworldly Isles. Discover how the Sea King’s music, magical treasures and ancient tales have left an enduring legacy on Irish folklore.
Who was the Irish god Lugh of the Long Arm?
Lugh Lámfada (“of the Long Arm”) shines in Irish myth as the all-skilled champion of the Tuatha Dé Danann. Famous for his lightning spear, he slays Balor, fathers Cú Chulainn and lends his name to the harvest festival Lughnasadh. His stories celebrate ingenuity, lawful kingship and the bright promise of late summer.
Who is the Irish ‘good god’ the Dagda?
The Dagda, “Good God” of the Tuatha Dé Danann, strides through Irish myth with an endless cauldron, a life-and-death club and a harp that orders the seasons. Fertility, abundance and raw power earn him the title All-Father—yet he is also a wry trickster, lover and skilled druid who shapes the land itself.
Infographics on the Irish gods
If you’d like to read about any of the historical or other mythological posts, please feel free to browse my other pages: