geasa

Geasa, singular geis, is a concept in Irish mythology representing a taboo or a sacred obligation. It is a vow or prohibition that a hero or other individual must adhere to, often with severe consequences if broken. Geasa are not merely personal promises but are deeply ingrained in the social and supernatural fabric of early Irish society.

The nature of geasa can vary widely. They can be positive, dictating certain actions that must be performed, such as a hero being obliged to attend a feast or defend a particular person. Conversely, they can be negative, imposing prohibitions on what one must not do, like a king being forbidden to travel on certain days or to eat specific foods. The breaking of a geis was believed to bring about misfortune, illness, or even death to the individual bound by it, and sometimes to their entire family or even kingdom.

Many of the famous heroes and figures in Irish mythology are characterized by their geasa. For example, the hero Cú Chulainn has a complex set of geasa, including prohibitions against eating dog meat and refusing hospitality. The breaking of these geasa contributes significantly to his tragic downfall. These stories serve not only as narratives but also as moral lessons and reflections of cultural values and beliefs regarding fate, duty, and the supernatural. The concept of geasa underscores the precarious balance between free will and destiny in the mythological worldview.