Anancara or Ananchara The Celtic Rite of Friendship

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Anancara or Ananchara

The ancient Celts often practiced a ritual they called "Ananchara", formalizing friendships in the same way that marriage rituals formalize the bond between lovers.

Like the Native Americans who perform blood - brother rituals, the ancient Celts often formalized their friendship bonds through a ritual known as " Ananchara" (pronounced ahn-im-KAR-uh).

This is a gaelic word that translates as "soul" friend. Soul friends are partners and equals who discuss problems and share advice; they balance out each others strengths and weaknesses and feel able to share everything with one another. By performing the Ananchara ritual, the Celts outwardly formalize their inner feelings for their friend, deepening the spiritual and emotional connection that already existed between them.

A soul friend isn't a crutch, however. Rather than bearing all of your burdens, they share them so your load is lightened. They will lend a sympathetic ear and also a shoulder to cry on, but always remember your friend needs you as often as you need them.

Celtic Friendship's Prayer

In the eye of the Father who created me,

In the eye of the Son who purchased me,

In the eye of the Spirit who cleansed me,

In friendship and affection.

Through Thine own Anointed One, O God,

Bestow upon us fullness in our need,

Love towards God,

The affection of God,

The smile of God,

The wisdom of God.

The grace of God,

The fear of God,

And the will of God

To do on the world of the Three,

As angels and saints

Do in heaven;

Each shade and light,

Each day and night,

Each time in kindness,

Give Thou us Thy Spirit.