The land is not just the backdrop of our lives—it is an active, living, spiritual reality. Within Bessus Nouiogalation (BNG), we understand the land as inhabited by sacred beings who dwell in fields, forests, rivers, stones, etc. These beings are not always gods in the sense of Dêuoi, but they are spirits worthy of honor and respect. We call them Bituatîs, “Spirits of the Earth” or “Land Spirits,” though this encompasses a wide range of presences—from guardian spirits of local features to more primal or chthonic forces.
This is one of the areas of Gaulish spirituality that is both richly intuitive and under-documented historically. While the ancient Gauls left us few direct records of land spirit veneration, we can infer much from comparative Indo-European practices, archaeological finds such as offerings in bogs and rivers, and the persistent folklore of the Celtic-speaking world.
BNG does not claim an unbroken historical reconstruction, but instead offers a spiritually coherent approach rooted in ancestral reverence, animist understanding, and personal relationship.
Land Spirits in Everyday Practice
In Tegobessus, the honoring of land spirits is both household-based and local. These beings are with us always. They are the subtle presences who remember the ancient paths, who dwell in the roots of trees, who inhabit the glades and streams, and who—sometimes—come to dwell near our homes. You may already know them: the subtle change in air when you enter an old grove, the feeling of being watched while walking a familiar trail, the sense of peace (or unease) in a certain part of your yard. These are signs of presence.
Who Are the Land Spirits?
They go by many names and forms. Some are clearly beings of place—spirits of a specific hill, tree, spring, or stone. Others are more generalized—guardians of a larger land area or valley. In your practice, it is less important to categorize them precisely and more vital to recognize, respect, and reciprocate. In BNG, we refer to them collectively as Bituatîs, though individual names and identities may arise through a long relationship. You may find local names, ancestral titles, or even nicknames that feel appropriate.
Honoring the Spirits of the Land
While not always as formal as rites to the Dêuoi or the Regentiâ, offerings to the Dêuoi Dumnosê are a deeply important part of Tegobessus. They anchor us to the place where we live and form a relationship with the unseen world that supports the visible one.
When to Offer
- At seasonal transitions (e.g. Equinox, Solstice, Agricultural Holidays)
- Upon arrival to a new home or area
- Before taking from the land (harvesting, foraging, building)
- After significant weather events
- Anytime you feel prompted by intuition or presence
What to Offer
- Whole milk, honey, or water poured directly onto the earth
- Herbs such as mugwort, juniper, or mint
- Coins (buried or left respectfully)
- Food offerings, especially local produce or bread
- Words of respect, song, or silence
How to Offer
- Choose a quiet place outside, preferably somewhere you feel the presence of the land.
- Purify yourself (Glanosâgon) before beginning.
- Light a candle if you wish, or simply place your hand on the ground.
- Speak aloud or inwardly the following simple invocation:
Sample Invocation: Adgarion Bituatîs
Gaulish:
Adgariomos/Adgariūmī Bituatîs
Sentoi bitus
Mapatîs Litauiâs
Enogenetiâs etic donon beriâs
Rodâmos/Rodâmî addatus etic brâtun tê
Slanon te
Brâtun te
Molâmos/Molâmî Bituatîs
Iâmos/Iâiumî in tancê
English Translation:
We/I invoke the Spirits of the Land
Ancient ones of the world
Children of Litauiâ (the Earth)
You who bring gifts
We/I give offering and thanks to you
Cheer to you
Thanks to you
We/I praise the Spirits of the Land
We/I go in peace
Building Relationship
The goal of land spirit veneration is not to manipulate or demand—it is to form relationship. This is why regular small offerings and simple, honest words often mean more than elaborate ritual. Leave your offering, speak kindly, and listen. You may be surprised by what you feel—or by how the land itself begins to respond.
In time, some practitioners may come to recognize specific land spirits, or even receive names for them in dreams, divination, or sudden knowing. These experiences are valid and welcomed within BNG, though always interpreted through discernment.
Honoring the land spirits is a vital component of Bessus Nouiogalation. It ties us to the land we walk, grounds our rituals in the living world, and reminds us that we are part of an ecology that is both physical and spiritual. As with all parts of Tegobessus, consistency and sincerity are more important than perfection. Be respectful, be regular, and always remember: you are not alone.
Along with Bituatîs there are other beings/spirits that we call Ueranadoi, Anderoi, and Antumnatîs, which collectively we call Biuiti (Being, Creatures, Entity) you can find more info HERE.
Bessus Nouiogalation 