Gutuatir

In Bessus Nouiogalation, the title of Gutuatir honors both historical precedent and spiritual purpose. While the modern role is tailored to the needs of our living Bessus, it draws on the deep roots. The word Gutuatir (from Gaulish gutu- “voice, invocation” and -atir “father, master”) first appears in Julius Caesar, The Gallic Wars, 8,38. Caesar mentions a Gutuatir from Carnuticâ (Carnute region or land), which is the place where the annual Druid gathering was held. It is also the place we find The Chartres Thuribula, which has a list of inscriptions to summon spirits dating to around the second century CE. Then again, appearing in the epigraphic record of Roman Gaul, particularly from the 2nd to early 3rd century CE. In inscriptions from places like Anicium, Augustodunum, and Matisco, the Gutuatir appears as a recognized religious figure involved in civic, spiritual, and communal life.

What sets this priesthood apart is its explicit connection to voice and invocation. Scholars have interpreted the Gutuatir as a “Master of Invocations”—a title distinct from Roman-style flamines or even other Gaulish religious terms. In some inscriptions, a Gutuatir served specific gods such as Mars or Anvallus, showing that this was not a general priesthood but one tied to performative religious acts and sacred speech. The Gutuatir held status not only as a spiritual figure but also as a respected civic actor, alongside tax officials, magistrates, and Roman-style priests. This blending of the sacred and civic speaks to the deep integration of religion into the life and governance of Gallic communities.

We hold Ogmios as a guardian/guide of speech, virtue, and communal harmony. He is the Deuos of eloquence, persuasion, and the power of the tongue, leading us not with chains of iron, but with golden chains from his tongue to the ears of his followers. He is the embodiment of binding through beauty, not force. The Gutuatir walks in his shadow, not as a commander, but as a guide, crafting invocations, leading rites, and using sacred language to nourish the soul of the bessus and inspire the individuals. You can learn more about Ogmios HERE

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The Living Role in BNG

Today, the Gutuatir serves as:

• Creator of Adgarion (Invocations), Natu (Chant, Song, Poem), Brixtu (incantation, spell; octosyllabic meter) and Uēdiās (Prayers), often in the Gaulish language.
• Leader or co-leader of rituals in alignment with our Iuoi etic Litoues (Holidays and Festivals), Adaððoues (Rites), Adaððus aidoniâs (Hearth Rite), and the Daily Rites.
• Follower of Ogmios, maintaining the harmony of the group through wise and virtuous speech and counsel.
• Be an example of right action and virtue—holding the Three Laws in word and deed.
• Maintain a relationship with key deities and spirits of the tradition.
• Teach or mentor others in BNG principles, including language, virtue, cosmology, and custom.
• Perform blessings, rites, or other forms of spiritual service when needed.
• They are the Spiritual Guides of the Bessus.
  

While the historical Gutuatir was woven into civic structures, our modern Gutuatir is anchored in service, sacred voice, and spiritual presence—a bridge between the ancient and the now.

How One Becomes a Gutuatir in BNG

To become a Gutuatir, it’s not just about wanting the title—it’s about living the role already. We’ll be looking at those who are actively helping others within the bessus, who are creating invocations, leading rites, working with the Gaulish language, and embodying the spirit of the tradition. In some cases, we may reach out to individuals who clearly demonstrate these qualities. In other cases, someone may write to us explaining why they believe they are a good fit for the role. But submitting a write-up doesn’t guarantee the role—it’s a conversation, a discernment. The title of Gutuatir is earned through dedication, action, and alignment with the virtues and voice of BNG.

The path to becoming a Gutuatir is one of commitment, service, and voice. This is not a suitable role for any Toutioi who is a solo practitioner.

Prerequisites

• One must be a dedicated and contributing member of BNG for at least three years. This ensures the individual is grounded in the practice, values, and seasonal cycles of our bessus.
  
• Contributions may include ritual participation, language study, devotional writing, mentoring others, or creating Gaulish invocations and chants.

Gutuatir = /ɡuˈtwa.tir/
Gu = /ɡu/ as in goose
tua = /twa/ like twah
tir = /tir/ like teer (rhyming with seer)
goo-TWA-teer

It is important to note that in Gaulish (at least in our reconstruction), linguistic gender is not the same as personal gender. A word may be grammatically masculine, feminine, or neuter, but that does not restrict who the title or role applies to. For example, the word Druid is grammatically masculine, yet it refers to Druids of any gender. The same is true for Gutuatir. The ending -tir is simply a linguistic feature, not a statement about who may hold the role. Because of this, Gutuatir should be understood as an inclusive title. It describes the office — “Master of the Voice” — rather than the personal gender of the one who serves. Some modern adaptations, like Gutudonion (“Person of the Voice”), have been suggested as neutral alternatives. However, such forms are stylistic choices. The traditional title Gutuatir is already open to all who take up the role, regardless of gender identity. For those who would like a Feminine alternative, you could use Gutumatîr (Mother of Voice).