Cernunnos, the ancient Horned God of the Celtic pantheon, is a powerful symbol of nature, fertility, and the wild, untamed forces of the earth. He is often depicted as a man with antlers, seated in a meditative posture, symbolizing his connection to both the natural and spiritual realms. As the god of animals, fertility, and the cycle of life, Cernunnos embodies both the nurturing aspects of nature and its raw, primal power. His energy is deeply tied to the forest, animals, and the balance between life and death, making him a protector of the natural world.
The lyrics from Damh the Bard’s song “Green and Grey” capture the essence of Cernunnos, particularly in the lines:
"I'm no devil, I'm Father to the land,
I have lived here since the Earth began,
Neither black nor white, Priest hear what I say,
I'm green and grey."
These words speak to Cernunnos' ancient role as the Father of the Land, a figure deeply connected to the earth, predating human constructs of morality. The description of him as “green and grey” reflects the balance he embodies—green for life, growth, and fertility, and grey for the stillness and mystery of nature, even death. Cernunnos is neither good nor evil but exists in the balance of natural forces, much like the cycles of the seasons he governs.
Personal Experience with Cernunnos:
I felt a connection with Cernunnos during spring equinox ritual at Het Kruidenrijk. The equinox, a time of balance between light and dark, seemed the perfect moment to invoke him. As the earth prepares to transition into the fertile months of spring and summer, Cernunnos’ role as the bringer of abundance and protector of nature becomes especially relevant.
In my ritual, I called upon Cernunnos with these words:
"Welcome, Cernunnos
The Horned One, God of fertility and abundance,
Protector of animals and nature,
Bringer of abundance and the warmth that awaits us in the coming time.
Protect and guide us in this ritual,
Bring abundance into our lives and into this land,
Bless the earth and bring a bountiful harvest to this place.
Protect and guide us.
We honor and offer to you today.
Be welcome in our midst."
Cernunnos in Modern Paganism:
Today, Cernunnos is revered in modern pagan practices, particularly in Wicca and Druidry, as a symbol of fertility, nature, and the wild. He is often invoked during seasonal festivals like Beltane and the equinoxes, where the focus is on renewal, growth, and the natural cycles of life. In these practices, Cernunnos represents the sacred masculine, balancing the divine feminine energy of the earth mother or goddess.
For me, working with Cernunnos has been a grounding experience, one that connects me to the deeper rhythms of nature. His energy is both gentle and fierce, nurturing life but also reminding us of the wild and untamed aspects of the natural world. Calling on him during rituals, particularly those focused on abundance and protection, brings a deep sense of balance and wholeness. His presence helps guide us through the cycles of the earth, reminding us of the importance of living in harmony with the natural world.
In my practice, Cernunnos is not just a god of the wild—he is a protector, a guide, and a reminder that all life is sacred, from the smallest creatures to the vast forests. He brings the warmth of the coming seasons and the promise of a fruitful harvest, guiding us to respect the earth and all its inhabitants.
