Druidic Hierarchy

The druids have their own hierarchy based on competence, that determines the respect and privileges they get in the Celtic society.

The Quintessential druid
Author Robin O. Duke
Series The Quintessential Series
Publisher Mongoose Publishing
Publish date 2002

On the other hand, they have no “religious order hierarchy” where higher ranking priests rule, and those under them are expected to obey. A higher ranking druid receives greater respect and privileges than a lower druid, but otherwise has no authority over him (especially if the latter belongs to another tribe).

There are thus seven grade of ability for druids (those of the fili and druid classes), which are based on knowledge and magical ability. Bards may also have access to these grades, but only provided they meet the requirements. From highest to lowest they are:

• – Ollamh: the Great High One (also known as a “Doctor”).
• Requirements: 7th level spells, and one Knowledge skill at 16+ ranks or two Knowledge skills at 10+ ranks.

• – Ansruth: the High One (or Sage).
• Requirements: 6th level spells, and one Knowledge skill at 14+ ranks or two Knowledge skills at 9+ ranks.

• – Cli: the Bright Stream.
• Requirements: 5th level spells, and one Knowledge skill at 12+ ranks or two Knowledge skills at 8+ ranks.

• – Cana: the Clear Stream.
• Requirements: 4th level spells, and one Knowledge skill at 10+ ranks or two Knowledge skills at 7+ ranks.

• – Dos: the Enlightened.
• Requirements: 3rd level spells, and one Knowledge skill at 8+ ranks or two Knowledge skills at 6+ ranks.

• – Mac Fuirmid: the Questioner.
• Requirements: 2nd level spells, and one Knowledge skill at 6+ ranks or two Knowledge skills at 4+ ranks.

• – Fochloc: the Apprentice.
• Requirements: 1st level spells, and one Knowledge skill at 4+ ranks.

Then, after a druid has reached the Ollamh rank, he may become an archdruid.

However, this isn’t a new rank, and an archdruid is not a spiritual leader, elder, or patriarch of druidism. Archdruids are not the heads of a druidic order which doesn’t exist. Rather, they are exceptional druids who have almost pierced the secrets of the universe, and thus achieve much honor among the Celts. Druids of legends and primordial druids were all archdruids. They represent a supreme degree of Wisdom and understanding among druids.