Crom Cruach (Old Irish: Cromm Crúaich [ˈkɾˠʊmˠ ˈkɾˠuəç]) was a pagan god of pre-Christian Ireland. According to Christian writers, he was propitiated with human sacrifice and his worship was ended by Saint Patrick.[1]
He is also referred to as Crom Cróich, Cenn Cruach/Cróich ([ˈkʲɛnˠː ˈkɾˠuəx]) and Cenncroithi ([ˈkʲɛnˠː ˈkɾˠɔhɨ]). He is related to the later mythological and folkloric figure Crom Dubh.
The references in a dinsenchas ("place-lore") poem in the 12th century to sacrifice in exchange for milk and grain suggest that Crom had a function as a fertility god. The description of his image as a gold figure surrounded by twelve stone or bronze figures has been interpreted by some as representing the sun surrounded by the signs of the zodiac, suggesting a function as a solar deity.[2]
- ^ Smith, Tom. "The Irish God 'Crom Crúaich of Magh Slécht' : a review of the sources"
- ^ "Celtic Gods, Crom Cruaich". Magic of Mythology. Archived from the original on 4 July 2010. Retrieved 9 December 2010.