Neithe

Neithe

is the name of a Celtic divinity who was superstitiously reverenced even in Christian Scotland. The primitive signification of the name is to wash or purify with water, and the name was probably given to this divinity because she is the presiding spirit of the water element. She was the goddess of fountains, which to this day are regarded with particular veneration over every part of the Highlands. "The sick, who resort to them for health," says Brand (Popular Antiquities of Great Britain, 2:376), "address their vows to the presiding powers and offer presents to conciliate their favor. The presents generally consist of a small piece of money or a few fragrant flowers." (See Holy Well).