Celtic Spirituality: Part 2 (Ollamh Fódhla)

Celtic Spirituality (c. 2001) is a recording of John Moriarty's presentation to a symposium on depths and meaning of his lyrical prose, rooted in Irish mythology, and its relevance to contemporary spiritual and ecological thought. Focusing on the analysis of two specific texts (A Shudder In The Loins and Ollamh Fódhla) first published in his book Dreamtime (1994), the talk was recorded live in Glendalough around the year 2000.

Ollamh Fódhla is a richly textured narrative about personal transformation. The text reflects on the nature of wisdom, conveyed through the symbolism of the sacred hazel tree and Nectan’s Well (aka Connla’s Well or the Well of Segais). The narrator, 'ollamh' (Irish word for great teacher) contemplates his role as a spiritual guide. He reflects on the mythic river Boann, which mirrors his soul and connects him to the divine wisdom of Nectan’s Well. He retreats to higher ground, reflecting on the rites and wisdom of his forefathers. When this wisdom reveals the connection between his dreams and the sacred rivers, he accepts he must become Ollamh Fódhla to his people. Moriarty invites the audience to reflect: If a modern ollamh walked among us, what could they teach us? The text is read in segments with analysis and commentary interwoven throughout.