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 n Celtic myths, the sharing or giving of drink, whether from well, cauldron or cup, imparts uncommon qualities on the recipient. This includes protection from disease and aging as in the Irish Fled Ghobhneann or Goibhniu Feast, a part of the Feast of the Ages instituted my Manannan Mac Lir for the deities of the Tuatha de Danann after the displacement by the invading Milesians. Along the same lines, there are several instances of herbal baths, either in wells or cauldrons in which the dead or wounded were dipped and returned to life and soundness of limb.
Another important theme associated with proffered drink is that of Sovereignty . Either in being awarded the title by an Otherwordly woman after having met a challenge, as in the stories of Niall of Nine hostages, and of Conn of the Hundred Battles, or in the tribal ritual of installing the new ruler. The association of drink with Sovereignty can also be seen in the figure of Mebdh. An Irish Goddess/Queen, known for her intimate association with several kings of Ireland. Her name translates as "the intoxicating one" implying a mystic connection between intoxication, bond and the change of life and status upon taking the responsibility of Sovereign.
The gifts of Knowledge and Wisdom also can be given by way of a drink, in the case of Gwidion, three drops from the cauldron of Cerridwen. Wisdom can also be obtained by a drink from a sacred well, wherein live the hazelnut fed salmon of Wisdom or by sleeping/meditating near one of the holy rivers of Ireland, generally the Shannon or the Boyne. All of these legends have initiatory characteristics to them, characteristics that were applied to political as well as familial sharing of drink. |
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