Druids were members of a priestly class in ancient Celtic societies, primarily found in Britain, Ireland, and Gaul (modern-day France). They were not just priests but also scholars, teachers, judges, and healers within their communities. The word “Druid” likely comes from the Celtic word “dru-wid,” meaning “oak-knower” or “knowledge of the oak.”

Druids held a significant role in Celtic society, serving as intermediaries between the people and the spiritual realm. They were responsible for conducting religious rituals, including sacrifices, and for preserving and transmitting oral traditions, laws, and cultural knowledge.

Druids were highly respected and held considerable influence within their communities. They played a crucial role in decision-making processes, acted as advisors to kings and leaders, and were often sought out for their wisdom and guidance.

Much of what is known about the Druids comes from classical sources, primarily Greek and Roman writers, as well as archaeological evidence and later folklore. However, due to the lack of written records from the Druids themselves and the biases of these external sources, there are still many mysteries surrounding their practices, beliefs, and customs.

Druids acted as advisors to tribal chiefs and fortune tellers. They were the only ones who could freely move around the territories of different tribes and negotiate between them. The Druids denied bloodshed and cruel killings and tried to eradicate it all from their religion. They held meetings throughout the year in different parts of Europe. Spring and autumn equinoxes were considered especially important.

At that time, the whole of Central Europe was covered by a dense mixed and deciduous forest. The forest was feared and it scared people. But the forest and trees played an important part in the culture of the Celts. The faith of the Celts was mystical and close to nature. Forests, rivers and mountains were considered sacred places for souls. Instead of temples, they gathered in forest clearings or under large trees. These holy places were important places of gaining power. The memory of the original tree lives on in legends, whose roots reached the earth’s crust and whose top reached the sky. The sacred tree offered protection and was the source of all life and rebirth. Sacred trees were highly respected. Living in the forest, Druids knew plants and animals well, perceived their nature and customs. A tree horoscope is also based on knowing different tree species.

Celtic priests learned about the nature of trees and noticed that human nature corresponds to their characteristics. Certain trees were treated as the twin beings of man, who protected him and gave away part of his life force. Each tree species has its own nature. Since the spring and autumn equinoxes were important to the Druids, all signs in this calendar have two periods. You can find your tree species by date of birth.