Psalter of the Birds: A collection of Celtic poetry

“Psalter of the Birds is a wonder! Modeled on the tenth-century Irish Saltair na Rann, this one-of-a-kind actual psalter—for reading AND for singing—celebrates and revives our participation in the sacred beauty all around us. Contemplative leader Justin Coutts has filled it generously, even to overflowing, with historical poetry, chants, hymns, and other pieces from early Irish, Welsh, Scottish, and English bards. Open to any page, and be amazed when out tumbles a mystical tree covered in birds, sacred sea voyages, holy purple heather, the sacramental beauty of cattle at pasture and fish in shining lakes, the God of Awen or inspiration, also the flowing river and the wind, Jesukin (the baby Jesus), a song of mead, the sacred act of smooring the fire to make the Tula nan Trì or Hearth of the Three, and a conversation with an eagle, to give a sampling.Psalter of the Birds revives and makes accessible in presentation and in fresh language, this motherlode of Celtic mysticism, taking us onto the third way, where everything ordinary is also powerfully mystical. Useful in personal devotion, liturgical settings, and informal gatherings, expect the new and unexpected in these ancient, wise songs as they harmonize the soul and help us join in on the cosmic music of the spheres. Entering this collection, you’ll find that your heart is gently warmed as you’re invited to participate in a unity that respects boundaries and is also deeper than boundaries, honoring and transcending them and the human condition to help us taste joy, love, and ongoing communal transformation.”—Carmen Acevedo Butcher, PhD, translator of Brother Lawrence’s Practice of the Presence and The Cloud of UnknowingThis book includes:1. 50 poems from medieval Ireland2. 50 poems from medieval Wales3. 50 poems from nineteenth century Scotland4. Practical instructions for chanting5. 3 tunes with music and pointing for simplified Anglican chant6. A robust introduction introducing various topicsYou will learn about:1. Traditional techniques for training bards2. The Triple Way of the Christian mystics3. The intersection of Christianity with pre-Christian Celtic culture4. Celtic monasticism5. The healing power of music6. Nature spirituality7. Celtic saints and the angels8. Awen and poetic inspiration9. Prayers and blessings10. Celtic Christian theology and philosophy Read more