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Lugh

Lugh, also known as Lugh of the Long Arm (Lú Lámhfhada), is a prominent figure in Irish mythology and literature. He is described as a skilled warrior and a master of many arts, and he is closely associated with the Tuatha Dé Danann. In some traditions he is regarded as a sun or solar deity, though early sources emphasize his prowess in crafts, warfare, and leadership. The name Lugh is tied to brightness and skill, and his epithet Lámhfhada refers to a long arm or extended reach.

Origins and role. Lugh is said to be the son of Cian and Ethniu, daughter of Balor

Lughnasadh and legacy. The festival Lughnasadh (Lúnasa) is named after Lugh and is celebrated as a harvest

In sources such as the Lebor Gabála Érenn, the Book of Leinster, and the Cath Maige Tuiread,

of
the
Fomorians,
placing
him
in
the
lineage
of
both
the
Tuatha
Dé
Danann
and
their
cosmic
adversaries.
He
is
nurtured
or
fostered
by
Culann
the
smith,
which
reinforces
his
association
with
crafts
and
metalwork.
Lugh
is
often
described
as
possessing
mastery
of
many
arts—war,
smithing,
poetry,
music,
and
other
crafts—and
he
rises
to
prominence
among
the
Tuatha
Dé
Danann,
sometimes
taking
their
leadership
or
acting
as
their
chief
champion.
In
the
myths
surrounding
the
battles
with
the
Fomorians,
he
is
depicted
as
a
key
figure
in
the
events
at
Magh
Tuireadh
(the
Battle
of
Moytura)
and
in
the
subsequent
organization
of
the
arts
and
skills
within
the
people.
festival
in
Gaelic
tradition,
featuring
fairs,
games,
and
competitions
in
honor
of
his
patronage
of
crafts
and
skill.
In
modern
times,
Lugh
appears
in
neopagan
and
literary
contexts
as
a
symbol
of
craft,
invention,
and
solar
power.
Lugh’s
character
serves
as
a
unifying
emblem
of
artistry
and
prowess
within
the
mythic
history
of
Ireland.