Brigid-Fire Goddess

Brigid is known as the fire goddess in Celtic mythology. She was the giver of fire for healing and hearth, and was the protector of smiths and metal workers. Associated with the sun, she is often depicted with fiery red hair. Brigid was so important that centuries later, when Christianity arrived in Ireland, her attributes were given to the 5th century Brigid of Kildare, now Christian Saint Brigid, patron saint of the hearth. A healing sanctuary and perpetual flame were kept burning until the 12th century. The Brigid flame was relit in 1993 and is tended by the Brigidine sisters in Kildare. Brigid’s fire represents the fire of hearth, healing, and protection, but not destruction.