The Sacred Isle

Ancient monuments, legends and folklore interpreted to illuminate the realities of prehistoric Irish belief. The myths and legends of prehistoric Ireland have inspired writers through the ages, down to W.B. Yeats and Seamus Heaney in our own century, but what do we know of the realities of ancient Irish belief? Daithi O hOgain's book approaches the question by studying archaeological remains such as tumuli, stone henges and circular enclosures and analysing the rich materials that have been handed down both in the great cycles of Irish heroic tales and the humblebut significant survivals of modern folklore, for instance the traditions associated with wells and springs. Drawing evidence from these varied sources, he arrives at a balanced picture of a society and its beliefs which have alltoo often been the subject of conjecture and fancy. CONTENTS Pre-Celtic Cultures . Basic Tenets in the Iron Age . The Druids and their Practices . The Teachings of the Druids . The Society of the Gods . The Rites of Sovereignty . The Triumph of Christianity. DAITHI O HOGAIN was Professor of Folklore at University College Dublin.

A master of war and a mistress of magic—battling for rule of ancient Ireland! AN ISLAND AT WAR True, they are a strange couple... Cena, noble Queen of the Danans, and Sixarms, savage chieftain of the Freths. Yet a match between them would unite the two tribes and end the fighting that bloodies the island that will someday be known as Ireland. Yet there are plenty among their peoples who oppose the union—and one who would stoop to treachery to prevent it—treachery and magic. PRAISE FOR KEITH TAYLOR'S BARD SERIES: "For lovers of magic, history, and/or swashbuckling adventure, BARD is an exciting novel!" —Science Fiction Review

An inspirational and practical guide to the sacred isle of Iona for pilgrims of all faith traditions. Through personal accounts and spiritual reflection the author, an Irish native who has directed tretreats retreats to Iona for nearly 40 years, brings to life the rich heritage and the legacy of Celtic Christianity. Includes very practical information about the island and how to plan a pilgrimage retreat.

A celebration of the beauty and mystery of Iona—a hallowed place of pilgrimage and spiritual self-discovery. With a history swathed in spirituality and mystery, the Scottish isle of Iona has always been revered as a holy place, the center of Scottish Christianity. Legends abound of Jesus and Mary Magdalene alighting and living here before the Crucifixion, and Christ is believed to have visited the island with his mother. Celebrating sacred Iona as a place of pilgrimage, Claire Nahmad explores the fascinating ancient link between Iona and Rosslyn Chapel, the extraordinary unfinished building near Edinburgh, another prominent destination for those interested in biblical, masonic and pagan history. Nahmad takes you on a journey of revelation, unlocking the golden secret of the island and unveiling the undisclosed legacy of the Knights Templar.