Druids of California
The Origin of Druids
The Druidic Order is perhaps the oldest in existence. It is considered that it originated in the British Isles 6000 years before the Christian era, far beyond the scope of written history. At the time of the Roman invasion the Druidic Order was most prominent and powerful. The Druids were the leaders, judges, legislators, philosophers, physicians, and instructors of the people. The greatest of all Druidic teachers was Merlin, and his Seven Precepts are considered as a moral way of life, the finest oral virtues ever laid down for the guidance of man.
Modern Principles of Druidism
The Order assumed its present character in England in 1781 and was introduced in America in 1830. The seven precepts of Merlin have been observed down through the ages because they were founded on sound morality and are not conflicting with any religious groups or laws of any country. The Druids today confine themselves to the moral, fraternal, patriotic, and benevolent philosophy exemplified by the Druids of old. It is non-political, non-sectarian and a secret society only for the purpose of protecting the rights of its members.
The Seven Precepts of Merlin
First: Labor diligently to acquire knowledge, for it is power.
Second: When in Authority, decide reasonably, for thine authority may cease.
Third: Bear with fortitude the ills of life, remembering that no mortal sorrow is perpetual.
Fourth: Love virtue - for it bringeth peace.
Fifth: Abhor vice - for it bringeth evil upon all.
Sixth: Obey those in authority in all just things, that virtue may be exalted.
Seventh: Cultivate the social virtues, so shalt thou be beloved by all men.
Branches and Membership
There are three branches of the Order, namely Groves, Chapters, and Circles. When a candidate is initiated into the Order, he becomes a member of the Grove and he may later become a member of the fun branch, called the Chapter. There is also a Sisterhood which is called the Circle branch in which the women predominate, however, brothers may become members of this branch.
International Grand Lodge of Druids
The Druidic Order has an International Society that is one of the largest in the world. Its history is interwoven with nearly all the early nations of Europe and its ritualistic work is based on pure ancient facts. There are branches of this Lodge in all parts of the world that Druid members may join. Delegates from the different lodges of the world meet every four years in a World Congress to legislate for the welfare of the Order, network, and socialize.
Druidic Scholarship Awards Program
To develop the power of thought has been a cardinal principle of the Druids for years beyond the scope of written history. To this end the Order maintains a Druidic Scholarship Awards Program. Each year the Order awards scholarships to graduating high school students. The qualifications are that the recipients be scholastically rated and financially needy. The applicants must also be recommended by a Grove, Chapter, or Circle. This plan is not only a source of pride to the Druidic Order, but also challenges the admiration of the greatest of social virtues, Benevolence.
Oak and Mistletoe
The symbol of the Ovate is the Mistletoe. This parasitic plant for which the Ancient Druids had great veneration and to which they attributed many medicinal virtues. It was consecrated to religious purposes by the ancient Celtic nations of Europe, and was held in high veneration by the Druids when found on the oak, for whatever grew on an oak was thought to be a gift from Heaven. The oak tree represented the Deity and the mistletoe when found on the oak signified man, a creature entirely dependent upon God for support, and yet with an individual existence of his own. It is Humanity clinging to Divinity.
Symbolism of the Colors
The symbolism of the colors is the same today as they were in the days of Merlin. The same interpretation applies today as it did to the early Druids.
White: Purity, Innocence, Joy
Red: Courage, Power, Fervency, Zeal.
Blue: Heaven (Blue Sky), Godliness, Piety, Friendship, Loyalty, Justice.
Green: Hope, Life, Plenty, (Prevailing color of Vegetation).
Conclusion
In becoming Druids men violate no moral obligation. In Druidism there is nothing which will interfere with one's duties to his Supreme Power, his country, his family, or to himself. Druids are expected to respect the Flag and gives strict obedience to the laws of the United States of America.
Druids enjoy niceties of an Order dedicated to principles to respect and nurture the Dignity of Man: Friendship and Sociability; Charity; Belief in a Supreme Power and the Brotherhood of Men. An Order which teaches one to be a good neighbor.