Cathbad facts for kids

Cathbad is a very important character in old Irish stories, especially in a group of tales called the Ulster Cycle. He was the main druid (a wise person, like a priest, teacher, and magician) at the court of King Conchobar mac Nessa. Cathbad was known for his great wisdom and his ability to see into the future. He gave advice to kings and helped people understand the world around them.

Cathbad and King Conchobar's Beginnings

There are a couple of stories about how King Conchobar was born and how Cathbad was involved.

The First Story

In one tale, Ness, who was the daughter of the king of Ulster at the time, asked Cathbad for advice. She wanted to know what would be a lucky time for something important. Cathbad, who could see the future, told her it was a perfect time for a queen to have a king. Since there were no other men nearby, Ness and Cathbad had a son together. This son grew up to be King Conchobar.

The Second Story

In another version, Cathbad was not only a druid but also a leader of a group of warriors called fianna. One day, his group attacked Ness's foster-father's home, and many people were killed. Ness was very upset and formed her own group of warriors to find Cathbad.

However, one day, Ness was bathing alone when Cathbad found her. He insisted that she marry him, and she agreed. In this story, Ness's child was actually the son of High King Fachtna Fáthach.

When Ness was about to give birth, Cathbad told her something amazing. He said that if she could wait until the next day to have her baby, her son would become a great king and be famous forever. Ness tried her best and waited. The next morning, she gave birth by the river. The baby fell into the water, but Cathbad quickly pulled him out. He named the baby Conchobar, after the river, and raised him as his own son.

Cathbad's Important Prophecies

Cathbad was famous for his prophecies, which were predictions about the future.

The Prophecy of Deirdre

Cathbad was also present when a girl named Deirdre was born. He saw her future and sadly predicted that she would have a very tragic life. However, King Conchobar did not listen to Cathbad's warning.

The Prophecy for Cú Chulainn

On another day, a young boy named Cú Chulainn overheard Cathbad making a prophecy. Cathbad said that anyone who took up weapons on that specific day would become incredibly famous, but they would also have a very short life. Cú Chulainn immediately ran to King Conchobar and asked to be given his own weapons. He chose fame, even if it meant a shorter life.