Do you know what a Celtic knot symbolizes? This article will provide you with everything you need to know about the meaning of a Celtic knot.
-
Kevin
-
June 17, 2022
-
Common Questions
Do you know what a Celtic knot symbolizes? This article will provide you with everything you need to know about the meaning of a Celtic knot.
If you fancy yourself an adventurer, have a passion for camping, or spend your days sailing the salty seas, you’ve likely come across a knot or two.
From the square knot and bowline to the grip knot and figure eight, there are a number of different knots — but are you familiar with the Celtic knot?
In this guide, we’re exploring the symbolic Celtic knot to uncover its meaning, origin, and more. So, if you’ve ever been curious about this coveted knot — keep reading. Here’s our complete guide on the Celtic knot.
A Celtic knot is a symbolic pattern that depicts a looped knot with no start or finish. In other words, it’s a symbol that features a continuous line.
The endless knot goes on infinitely, which is thought to symbolize the eternity of life. If you were to draw a Celtic knot, you would have one starting point and eventually finish right back where you started — at the beginning. This symbolizes how eternity and life are interconnected.
Celtic knots originated from an ancient group of people called the Celts sometime in the third and fourth centuries. The Celts were pagan; however, over time, most converted to Christianity. The Pagans believed in the infinite nature of all living things.
Before the influence of Christianity, Celtic culture was in the form of braid, spirals, plait, patterns, and of course, knots, symbolizing seven creations, which included:
The symbolic Celtic knots came with many different themes, such as unity, loyalty, strength, love, and religious beliefs. Around this time, the idea stood that the coveted knots represented the earth, sky, and sea as well as the past, present, and future.
Eventually, the holy trinity — God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost (aka Holy Spirit) — were incorporated into it as well.
A basic Celtic knot consists of an interlacing pattern that dates all the way back to the middle ages, inscribed by monks on the famous book of Kells. That said, did you know that this basic knot is not the only variation or aesthetic interpretation of the Celtic knot?
Yup, it’s true — the basic knot is just one of eight Celtic knots, which are three- or four-cord plait patterns. The eight Celtic knots are as follows:
In addition to there being many Celtic knots, there are also many Celtic symbols — here are some of the best-known symbols:
Now that you’re familiar with what the word “Celtic knot” means, let’s take a look at a few translations:
It goes without saying that Celtic knots are iconic. The ancient symbols have been around for centuries, yet are still commonly seen today in many places, including graveyards, monuments, and churches. Additionally, Celtic art and knots are often incorporated into jewelry, tattoos, and clothing.
It doesn’t matter if you’re Roman, Welsh, or Scottish — anyone can enjoy Celtic knotwork. In other words, you don’t have to be a Pagan or Christian to use the ancient Celtic symbol.
Coveted all around the world, the Celtic knot is meant to be shared far and wide. We hope this guide provided you with all the information you need to truly understand the meaning behind the Celtic knot. To discover more interesting words, head on over to our website today!