The Celtic Triskele (or Triskel)

The Triskele or Triple Spiral is said to be the oldest symbol of spirituality. Its name comes from the Greek words “Tri” and “Skelos” which means “three legs”.

It is a symbol used by the Celts, but also by other peoples over the centuries.

There is no single meaning or representation of the triskele. It is made up of 3 joining spirals, and the ancient Irish believed that everything happens in batches of 3, or ‘the 3rd times the charm’ – a belief that still exists today.

The 3 spirals are said to symbolize:

· birth death and rebirth

· unity of mental, physical and spiritual self

· the 3 worlds: celestial, physical and spiritual

· the Triple Goddess (maiden, mother, and wise woman)

· the Holy Trinity

· the connection between the three domains: earth, water, and sky

It is also associated with reincarnation because it consists of one seemingly continuous line that can be compared to the continuous movement of time.

Collated by Gail

23 July 2022