Dian Cécht

Dian Cécht, a prominent figure in mythology, was one of the Tuatha Dé Danann, a supernatural race much like idealized humans who are immune from ageing and sickness, and have magical powers. He is renowned as the physician of the gods and is known for his exceptional healing abilities.

He's notably recognized for crafting a silver hand for Nuada, the king of the Tuatha Dé Danann, which functioned as effectively as a real one. However, Dian Cécht's story is tinged with tragedy and complexity. His children, Miach and Airmed, also gifted in healing, spent seven years developing a flesh hand for Nuada to restore his physical perfection, a requirement for kingship among the Tuatha. Enraged by their success, Dian Cécht killed Miach and dispersed numerous healing herbs globally.
Portrayed as an older man in his fifties, Dian Cécht embodies wisdom and skill rather than physical might. With long white hair, a neatly trimmed beard, and mustache, he exudes a sage-like presence. His remarkable dexterity and expertise in metalwork are evident in Nuada's silver hand. While his knowledge of medicinal herbs doesn't match Airmed's, he is still adept at identifying their various uses and properties.
Unlike other members of the Tuatha, Dian Cécht is less involved in the mortal world, partly due to his lingering grief and unresolved anger over Miach's death. When he does visit, he is often found in medical settings, contributing his skills to develop prosthetics and alleviate human suffering. His work spans various medical specializations, reflecting his commitment to eradicating pain and disease.
Dian Cécht's descendants, the Scions, are predominantly found in medical professions. This lineage includes nurses, doctors, paramedics, and those involved in pharmaceutical development. They are characterized by their dedication and compassion, often driven by an acute awareness of the fragility of life and the harm inflicted by supernatural forces. These Scions stand ready to assist their more combat-oriented peers, embodying the healing legacy of Dian Cécht.

Notable Events and Characteristics:

Dian Cécht is most famously known for crafting a functional silver hand for Nuadu, the king of the gods, after he lost his hand in battle. This act is a testament to Dian Cécht's unparalleled skills in healing and craftsmanship.
His son, Miach, however, succeeded in giving Nuadu a flesh and blood hand, surpassing his father's achievement. Driven by jealousy, Dian Cécht killed Miach. This act of envy casts a shadow on his legacy.
Another tragic aspect of his mythology involves his daughter, Airmed. After Miach's death, Airmed wept over her brother's grave, causing healing herbs to grow from the earth. Dian Cécht, in another fit of jealousy, scattered these herbs, thereby robbing humanity of comprehensive knowledge of their healing properties.
Dian Cécht's healing prowess extended beyond the divine realm into the mortal world. He was believed to have the ability to revive mortally wounded individuals by using a healing well, known as the Tipra Sláíne.

Legacy:

Despite his remarkable healing abilities, Dian Cécht's character is a study in contrasts, blending his extraordinary medicinal skills with a darker side marked by envy and violence. This complex character makes him a fascinating figure in Celtic mythology, embodying both the life-giving and destructive aspects of his divine nature.

Favored Weapon:

While specific details of a favored weapon for Dian Cécht are not explicitly mentioned in traditional sources, his skills lay more in the realm of healing and restoration rather than combat.

Symbol:

Dian Cécht's symbol is not clearly defined in the mythological texts, but it could be associated with elements reflecting his role as a healer, such as herbs or a healing well.

Temple:

There is no specific temple attributed to Dian Cécht in the myths, but places of healing and well-being could be considered his sanctuaries. Worshipers: As the god of healing, Dian Cécht was revered by those seeking cures for ailments and injuries. His followers likely included healers, herbalists, and those in need of his restorative powers.

Servitor:

The mythology does not specify a particular servitor or attendant to Dian Cécht.