Imbas Part One ~ Fire in the Head

Imbas is a Celtic concept of inspiration, clairvoyance, and prophetic knowledge. It is often associated with the fili, or bards, of ancient Ireland. The word "imbas" comes from the Old Irish word "imb," which means "knowledge" or "wisdom."

There are two main types of imbas: imbas forosnai and imbas tulchinne. Imbas forosnai is a gift of clairvoyance or visionary ability, while imbas tulchinne is a gift of poetic inspiration.

Imbas forosnai is often described as a trance-like state in which the practitioner is able to see the future or gain insights into the past. This type of imbas was often used by the fili to predict the outcome of battles or to divine the will of the gods.

Imbas tulchinne is a gift of poetic inspiration. It is believed that the fili were able to tap into the imbas tulchinne to receive inspiration for their poems. This type of imbas was often associated with the goddess Brigid, who was the patron of poetry and crafts.

The concept of imbas is still relevant today, and it is often used by modern Pagans and Druids to describe their own spiritual experiences. For many people, imbas is a reminder that we are all connected to something greater than ourselves, and that we have the potential to achieve great things.

Here are some examples of imbas in Celtic mythology:

• In the Táin Bó Cúailgne, the woman poet Fedelm uses her imbas forosnai to predict the outcome of a battle.
• In the story of Fionn mac Cumhaill, the hero is said to have received his imbas tulchinne from the goddess Brigid.
• In the Celtic tradition, it is believed that the druids were able to use imbas to gain insights into the natural world and the human condition.

The concept of imbas is a fascinating and complex one, and it continues to be a source of inspiration for people today.