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CELTIC TRIPLE SPIRAL (TRISKELE)
The triskele, or triple spiral, a symbol closely related to
the triquetra, is a tripartate symbol composed of three
interlocked spirals. The spiral is an ancient Celtic symbol
related to the sun, afterlife and reincarnation.
The first example ever found came from the Neolithic "tomb." It is
carved into the rock of a stone lozenge near the main
entrance of the prehistoric Newgrange monument in County
Meath, Ireland.
A variant of the symbol is also found,
carved into the wall in the inner chamber of the passage
tomb.
Triskele comes from the Greek and means "three-legged."
It is a symbol consisting of three interlocked spirals, or
three bent human legs, or any similar symbol with three
protrusions and a threefold rotational symmetry. |
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Oftentimes it is associated as a symbol of pregnancy (the sun
describes a spiral in its movements every three months; a
triple spiral represents nine months), an idea reinforced by
the womblike nature of the structure. The symbol also
suggests reincarnation- it is drawn in one continuous line,
suggesting a continuous movement of time.
Triskeles are one of the most common elements of Celtic art;
they are found in a variety of styles in both ancient and
modern artwork. The most popular representation is various depictions of
the Mother Goddess. The triskele also evoke the Celtic concept of
the elements including; earth, water, and sky,
and their interrelations.
Variants:
triskelion.
The Mighty Three
My protection be
Encircling me
You are around
My life, my home
Encircling me
O Sacred Three
The Mighty Three
Celtic Blessing, A Calm
Prayer
