Last Updated on January 24, 2021 by Avia

Celtic Knots and Celtic Knot Meanings

Exploring Celtic Knots and Meanings: Celtic knots are perhaps the most recognizable artwork in Celtic history. They started appearing in history after about 450 AD; the Celtic knots meaning is sketchy at best, because there is little written history documenting their purpose. However, repetition of their appearance through history in conjunction with other various human interpretations give us insight into the meaning of Celtic knots.

These perspectives allow us to infer some basic information relating to the Celtic knots – their purpose and their meaning in this colorful, ancient culture. .The Celtic knot symbol, is also referred to as the mystic knot, or the endless knot. The more esoteric or spiritual meaning of this symbol eludes to beginnings and endings. In viewing these beautiful knots, we cannot see a beginning or an end, and therefore we are reminded of the timeless nature of our spirit. This translation hearkens to our most primal selves as we contemplate the infinite cycles of birth and rebirth in both physical and ethereal realms.

A less spiritual representation is also related to the knot’s endless nature. Due to its infinite path, the Celtic knot can represent an uninterrupted life cycle. Some may use this symbol as a charm of sorts – warding against sickness or setbacks that might interfere with an otherwise calm and stable life. In this vein, these knots are used as emblems, which can be found in jewelry, clothing, or home décor. In ancient times, gifts adorned with mystic knots would be given with best wishes of longevity, or luck with new endeavors.

“The artist speaks to our capacity for delight and wonder.
She speaks to our sense of fellowship with creatures.
The artist speaks to the conviction that knots together all of life.”

A Note About The Celtic Trinity

Most Celtic knots are created from a four or three-point design. Both four-point and three-point knots have extraordinary symbolic meanings. I don’t want to pile more importance on one over the other. However, the three-point knot is noteworthy. Why? Because the predominance of common Celtic symbols are based on the trinity, which is a symbolic wisdom based on three. The triad in ancient Celtic ideology is huge. It’s a concept that moves on many levels, like: Cosmic, Earthly, and even Human make-up is rolled into a trinity for the Celts. So when we see the repetition of three’s in a Celtic knot, it’s important to make take special note of it.

The Celtic Trinity Knot, or the Triquetra, is one of the most common of the knot ilk.

The term Triquetra comes from Latin, and it means “three-cornered.” There are many schools of thought when discussing the Celtic trinity knot meaning.

All of the various interpretations agree on a culmination of thee parts.

For example, early Christian understanding views the symbols as the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. This came into play later with Celtic descendants during the days of Christian conversion.

Whereas, a more ancient Celtic school of thought sees the trinity knot as the drawing of the three inherent feminine powers: Mother, Crone, and Maiden. But this is only one slant on the Celtic triad. Another understanding can be found in a more metaphysical arena where the three corners represent mind, body and spirit. I’ve written a lot about the meanings behind the Celtic trinity here, if you’re interested.

celtic knots and celtic knot meanings — Celtic knots and Celtic knot meanings

More Informative Articles on Celtic Knots And Their Meanings

Triskelion Knot Meaning:
What’s all the commotion behind the three-legged motion of the Triskelion? Find out the various Celtic symbol meanings about this unique emblem in this article. Includes the meaning behind each of the three branches in this knot.

Triquetra (Trinity) Celtic Knots:
Discover more about the celtic symbol for trinity, and the meaning behind the triquetra. Learn how the trinity knot is a tightly tied package of expansive wisdom.

Five-Fold Celtic Knot Meanings:
Discover the Celtic meanings behind the five fold symbol, including symbolic associations and insights into the Celtic fifth element. This article includes the meaning of each of the five stations in this knot and how they are woven in ancient Celtic beliefs.

Quaternary Celtic Knots:
Celtic knot meanings will vary according to style, region, era, and artist. The quarternary knot, or ‘four-cornered’ knot is one of many with a diverse range of wisdom behind it. Discover the details behind this quaternary knot here.

Dara Celtic Knot Meaning:
There are various legends corresponding with Celtic knots. This page is devoted to the Dara Celtic knot meaning, which is connected to Celtic Ogham (wisdom system of trees).

Celtic Mandala Knot Art:
View beautiful Celtic designs in mandala style. Celtic knot meanings along with other symbolism is included with each design.

Celtic Knots Tattoos:
Thinking about getting a keen knot tattoo? Check this page for Celtic knot meanings for tattoos. Also includes knot meaning from China, Christianity, Buddhism, European myth and more.