Claíomh Solais: The Sword of Light – King Nuada

"From Findias was brought the Sword of Nuada;
no man would escape from it when it was drawn from its scabbard.
There was no resisting it."
--Lebor Gabala Erenn

The Sword of Renewal or the Sword of Light was brought from the region of Findias to the Hill of Tara.  It belonged to King Nuada.

King Nuada was the first known king of the Tuatha Dé Danann.  Alas, he was hurt by an enemy; his hand was cut off during a battle.  Nuada still won the battle.  However, it is a Tuatha Dé Danann tradition that their king must be physically perfect.  So, because his hand was lost, Nuada lost his kingship.  I know!  I was awestruck too.  I met this man, and he definitely is a king amongst kings.  Plus, he won his battle and by honoring his people with a battle won, they say…sorry, you can’t be our king anymore.  Not cool.  Not cool at all.

Well, as many of you might remember (if not, read yesterday’s story), there was Lugh amongst the Tuatha Dé Danann during this time.  Lugh, who so craftily gained admittance to these people, was ready to be there for Nuada.  With his multitude of talents, Lugh forged a hand for the king out of silver.  Hence, King Nuada was restored to power, and he gained the name Nuada Airgetlám, Nuada of the silver hand/arm. 

Pic: strangedays.it

Lugh was actually such a good friend to King Nuada that when King Nuada was killed in battle, Lugh hunted down and avenged his friend. Because of this act, Lugh was crowned king.

The Sword of Nuada is not merely an instrument of battle.  Instead, it is a sword of the people.  The sword is formed of the people and by the creative forces of the people.  Its brightness is a symbol of the illumination of the people of the Tuatha Dé Danann.  Being a sword forged by the force of the people, the sword is also a powerful source that cannot be overcome.