In the tranquil groves of ancient wisdom, where the whispers of the past entwine with the breath of the present, there lies a mystical script known as Ogham. This sacred alphabet, a treasure of the Druidic tradition, offers a window into a world where nature and knowledge converge. As an initiated Druid, it is my privilege and joy to share with you the essence of Ogham, its historical roots, its ancient uses, and its contemporary relevance in the path of modern Druidry.
The History of Ogham
Ogham, often pronounced as “OH-um” or “OH-am,” is believed to have originated around the 4th century AD, primarily in Ireland and parts of Western Britain. Its creation is shrouded in the mists of time, with some tales attributing its inception to the Celtic god of eloquence and literature, Ogma. This script comprises a series of lines and notches carved along the edge of standing stones or wood staves, each symbol representing a different letter. The direction of the writing is indicated by a ^ at the bottom or a — at the top of individual characters or a line.
The preferred spelling for this ancient script is “Ogham.” However, “Ogam” is also a valid spelling and is sometimes used, particularly in older texts or certain scholarly circles. The choice between “Ogham” and “Ogam” often depends on the conventions of the specific field of study or the writer’s preferences. For general use and especially when addressing an audience familiar with Celtic studies or Druidry, “Ogham” is the more commonly accepted and recognized spelling.
Ancient Uses
In its early days, Ogham was possibly used for several purposes. These included communication, the marking of territory or graves, and perhaps even for divinatory or ceremonial reasons. The symbols were intimately connected with various trees and plants, reflecting the deep bond between the Celts and their natural environment. This connection provided a rich, symbolic language that spoke not just about letters but the natural world itself. There are legends of Druid advisors using a hand-signal version of Ogham to communicate secretly when in the audience of rulers. Regardless of their purpose, the characters have become deeply ingrained in the lore and practices of modern druids.
Modern Druidic Use
Today, Ogham has experienced a revival within Druidry and other neo-pagan paths. Modern Druids often use Ogham for meditation, divination, and understanding nature’s more profound spiritual messages. Each stave or symbol is a gateway to a particular kind of wisdom, offering insights and guidance. In this way, Ogham serves as an alphabet and a tool for spiritual exploration and connection with the natural world. The symbols may be combined to form words and sentences. These will be displayed with a central line upon which the characters are connected.
The Ogham Alphabet
Here is a table of the Ogham symbols and their names, pronunciations, and general meanings. This is not just a list of letters but a melding of ancient wisdom, each symbol holding its unique vibration and teaching.
| Ogham Symbol | Name and Pronunciation | Description |
| ᚁ | Beith (BAY-th) | Birch tree, beginnings, renewal |
| ᚂ | Luis (LWEESH) | Rowan tree, protection, intuition |
| ᚃ | Fearn (FAIR-n) | Alder tree, strength, resilience |
| ᚄ | Saille (SAHL-yeh) | Willow tree, flexibility, emotion |
| ᚅ | Nuin (NOO-in) | Ash tree, connection, wisdom |
| ᚆ | Huath (HOO-ah) | Hawthorn tree, challenge, balance |
| ᚇ | Duir (DOO-er) | Oak tree, strength, stability |
| ᚈ | Tinne (CHIN-yeh) | Holly tree, protection, inner strength |
| ᚉ | Coll (CULL) | Hazel tree, wisdom, inspiration |
| ᚊ | Quert (KWAIRT) | Apple tree, choice, beauty |
| ᚋ | Muin (MOO-in) | Vine, prophecy, celebration |
| ᚌ | Gort (GORT) | Ivy, determination, change |
| ᚍ | Ngetal (NYEH-tal) | Reed, directness, purpose |
| ᚎ | Straif (STRAHF) | Blackthorn, complexity, transformation |
| ᚏ | Ruis (ROO-ish) | Elder tree, transition, fate |
| ᚐ | Ailm (AHL-m) | Fir tree, clarity, perspective |
| ᚑ | Onn (UHN) | Gorse, attraction, light |
| ᚒ | Ur (OOR) | Heather, dreams, healing |
| ᚓ | Eadha (EH-yah) | Aspen, overcoming fear, resilience |
| ᚔ | Ioho (EE-yoh) | Yew tree, eternity, rebirth |
In this table lies more than mere symbols; they are keys to understanding the language of trees, the earth’s messages, and the ancestors’ whispers. As modern Druids, we use these symbols to deepen our connection with nature, to guide our spiritual journeys, and to honor the wisdom of those who walked the path before us. In every stroke of an Ogham symbol, there is a story waiting to unfold, a lesson waiting to be learned, and a voice waiting to be heard.
The Forfeda
The Ogham symbols are typically divided into four sets of five characters each called an Aicme. A fifth Aicme of Ogham symbols, often referred to as the Forfeda is a collection of additional characters later added to the Ogham script. This extension of the original twenty characters reflects a deeper exploration and expansion of the Ogham system. The Forfeda, whose introduction is typically dated to after the initial creation of the Ogham, provided more nuances and allowed for a broader range of expression and interpretation.
The exact origin and purpose of the Forfeda are somewhat enigmatic and less understood than the primary Ogham characters. Some theories suggest they were developed for specific magical or divinatory purposes or to accommodate sounds not initially represented in the Ogham script. In modern Druidic practice, these symbols are often embraced for their unique energies and insights, adding depth to the Ogham’s use in meditation, divination, and contemplation.
These additional symbols in the Ogham script hold a special place in the heart of a modern Druid. They remind us that wisdom is not static but ever-growing and that our understanding of the world can continually expand. As such, you may find instances of substitutions, additions, and alternate names for these symbols. The Forfeda, in their mystery and depth, encourages us to look beyond the surface, delve deeper into nature’s spiritual essence, and continuously seek out the hidden truths that lie beneath the known.
Approaching the Ogham
The first step is to approach Ogham with respect and openness, recognizing it as more than an ancient alphabet – it is a gateway to deeper understanding and connection with nature. Start by familiarizing yourself with each symbol and its associated tree or plant. This can be done through study and meditation, contemplating the qualities and folklore of each tree. As you learn, try to connect with these trees in the natural world, observing them, touching them, and even sitting with them. This physical and mindful connection can deepen your understanding of the symbols and what they represent.
Incorporating Ogham into your daily practice can also be highly beneficial. You might begin by selecting a symbol that resonates with you each day or week, reflecting on its meaning and how it applies to your life and surroundings. Journaling your thoughts and experiences with each Ogham stave can provide insight into your personal growth and your relationship with the natural world. Additionally, consider creating your own set of Ogham staves or cards. This hands-on approach not only aids in memorization but also helps to establish a personal connection with the symbols. Remember, the journey into Ogham is as much about internal exploration as it is about learning an ancient script. It’s a path that invites you to delve into the mysteries of nature, of history, and of yourself.
May your journey with Ogham be as enriching and enlightening as the ancient forests from which these symbols first sprang. Just as the deep woods are filled with mystery, beauty, and an ever-present sense of the interconnectedness of all life, so is the path of Ogham, rich with insights, connections, and profound spiritual resonance. In each line and notch lies a story of the past, a lesson for the present, and a whisper of the future, inviting you to delve deeper into the mysteries of nature and your inner landscape.
May you walk this path with reverence, curiosity, and an open heart, finding in each symbol a companion and guide on your journey through the sacred grove of life.
A note about the image on the post. The staves were randomly drawn for the picture but prove to be interesting. Hazel represents divination, meditation and knowledge and wisdom. Ivy is tenacity, achievment and the search for self. Ash gives you the keys to the future through growth and transformation leading to destiny.
One way to interpret this might be: The Ogham, used for divination and meditation to bring wisdom, (Hazel) can be learned through some tenacity on your part and may require some soul-searching (Ivy) but can ultimately lead to personal growth and transformation and may provide direction and clarity to the path ahead (Ash.)
Joyful Aspen 
Leave a comment