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Greer discusses each of these paths in some detail, including how they merge to make your practice of Druidry stronger.Although this book was written to be the handbook of initiates in the Ancient Order of Druids in America, members of other Orders, and solitary Druids, will find a lot of useful information. Greer's book is an excellent source for the beginner. It covers the performance of rites and rituals, the Ogham alphabet and its uses as a teaching tool and oracle, and the basics of Druidry, including a well-researched history of modern Druidry.There are three paths in Druidry: the Sun path, the Moon path, and the Earth path. The only suggestion I could make to improve the book is to add a pronunciation guide for those unfamiliar with the intricacies of the Gaelic language. This isn't much of a hinderance, as pronunciation is included for some of the more common and important terminology.
Only glimpses found in ancient Druid burial sites and even Julius Caesars "Gallic Wars", though very little is mentioned by him in there. I even hate to write Druidism as it may give the reader a false impression that this subject is connected to the ancient practitioners of old. As a previous writer stated, this is a modern, or revivalist, book on Druidism. Almost all information that was, and is, gathered by practioners in recent times are from the late 17th century and forward. There is very little information on the true ancient Druids of the B.C.E. era through roughly the 3rd century C.E. Not to knock anyone who reads any of this, but, for those seeking the practices etc. of the ancient Druids, there is no source out there or hope of truly knowing them.
There is a section of course work in the back for those wanting to join the AODA but even if you are not interested in joining it is a very good way to set about enriching your life in an Earth centered path. This is an excellent introduction to modern druidry and the AODA. If your interested and looking for a place to start this is it. The ideas are set foward in an easy to understand yet intelligent way. While little is known about ancient druids except through second hand encounters often written by people who had never even traveled into celtic lands, this book does honor what we do know about the spirit and philosophy of the ancient druids as shown in their legends and culture.
If you are interested in becoming a Druid Revivalist or a member of the AODA this book is a must-read. If you are not sure which path you want to trod, this book will be very helpful in explaining just what exactly it means to be a Druid Revivalist. Remember, if Druid Reconstruction is your cup of tea, then forget about this book. The only reason I give it a 4 instead of a 5 is because the book can be a bit dry at times.
This book was quite useful into explaining, what it means to be a modern 'Druid'.Ross Nichols wrote the book,'The Book of Druidry',some thirty plus years ago.Eventhough Nichols' Druid book was interesting reading,Greer's book is one of the best modern intrepretations of Druidry around today.Greer's book is the best facilitative druid handbook for daily ritual and spiritual practices.In this age of fatalistic attitudes,this book is empowering and enriching for one's soul.When one accepts one's connection to Mother-Nature,then one can live a positive life rather than a self-destructive morose one.This is not a persiflage prattle on Druidism.It's a fresh serious introduction on what a real modern Druid believes,observes,connects and practices during the turning of the Earth's seasons.An excellent start for everyone earnest about being a modern Druid,honoring and sharing the surrounding all-powerful Mother-Nature.
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