Barddas

What it is

Barddas is a collection of writings that claims to record the ancient religious and philosophical traditions of Wales. Compiled by Iolo Morganwg, the text presents itself as a genuine archive of bardic lore. It outlines a complex cosmology involving multiple spiritual realms and a system of reincarnation. The work also includes an invented script called coelbren and traditional-style triads. Scholars view it as a creative reconstruction rather than a historical document.

Where it comes from

He claimed the content derived from manuscripts compiled by the sixteenth-century antiquarian Llywelyn Siôn. After his death in 1826, his son Taliesin Williams began organizing the papers. Benjamin and Augusta Hall acquired the collection, allowing scholar John Williams to edit them. The Welsh Manuscripts Society published the first volume in 1862 and the second in 1874.

How it is done

The text is structured into sections covering symbols, theology, and wisdom. Volume one begins with the coelbren alphabet. The theology section uses a catechism format to explain the cycle of rebirth. It describes four circles of being: Annwn, Abred, Gwynfyd, and Ceugant. The wisdom section contains esoteric teachings. Volume two serves as a guide for bards and gorsedd gatherings.

Tools and materials

The primary tool mentioned is the coelbren, a supposed bardic alphabet created by Iolo. The text relies on triads, which are mnemonic groupings of three items. A catechism structure is used to teach theological concepts. These elements form the basis of the presented druidic system.

What it is for

The work aims to preserve and revive what Iolo believed was the original Welsh spiritual heritage. It provides a framework for understanding the soul's journey through various states of existence. Practitioners of the modern druidic revival use these texts to inform their rituals and philosophy. It serves as a foundational text for those seeking a distinct Welsh magical identity.

Who does it

Iolo Morganwg authored the original manuscripts. John Williams edited and published the volumes. Modern scholars study the text to understand the history of Welsh nationalism and romanticism. Druidic groups may draw inspiration from its cosmological descriptions.

Peoples and places

The text is rooted in Welsh culture and language. It draws upon the figure of the bard, a traditional poet and sage in Welsh society. The work reflects the interests of Welsh antiquarians in the seventeenth century. It has influenced later generations of Welsh writers and spiritual seekers.

What people believe

Barddas proposes a universe divided into spiritual circles. Annwn represents the lowest state, akin to fairyland. Abred is a probationary realm. Gwynfyd signifies perfect liberty. Ceugant denotes infinity. The text teaches that souls undergo reincarnation across these spheres. This system blends Christian ideas with pagan concepts of the afterlife.

How scholars and sceptics see it

Researchers note that Iolo fabricated many sources. The claim that Llywelyn Siôn compiled the original manuscripts is disputed. The coelbren alphabet has no historical evidence outside Iolo's work. Scholars like Rachel Bromwich suggest Iolo may have accessed earlier triad versions. The text is studied as a product of its time rather than ancient truth.

Compare and confuse

Barddas is often compared to other revivalist texts of the era. It shares similarities with Masonic and Rosicrucian literature in its use of secret knowledge. The concept of bardic spirituality differs from Celtic polytheism. It is distinct from mainstream Welsh Christianity.

Law and persecution

The publication faced no legal restrictions. It was supported by scholarly societies. There are no current legal issues surrounding the text. It remains in print and accessible to the public.

Questions people ask about Barddas

Good reading and sources

• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle

• Barddas on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data