Caim

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The Caim is one of the prominent symbols of Celtic culture and stands for protection and/or sanctuary. The term “Caim” in its Gaelic sense means both “circle” and “to bend,” which is evident from the representation of the symbol, which looks like two circles woven together. From its definition and its original use, the Caim, also known as the Celtic Circle, is representative of a protection circle that is accompanied by the chanting of prayer with specific rhyme and style.

In its essence, the Caim circle symbolizes protection, wholeness, communion, attachment to the universe, as well as serving as a reminder.

• Protection – This is the primary symbolic meaning of the Caim circle. It was and still is cast to provide a shield both spiritual and physical to yourself or to the person you would wish to protect.
• Wholeness – The Caim circle was originally used in wedding ceremonies where it was cast around the bride and groom. Besides giving the couple protection, it also signified wholeness because the two came together to become one whole entity.
• Communion – When two people from two different clans are joined in holy matrimony, then a new communion is formed as the two clans who may have been rivals before become family, and peace prevails. This applied best during the ancient times when marriages were planned to foster harmony between warring communities. In such situations, a circle was cast around the bride and groom during their nuptials to signify the newly formed camaraderie.
• Attachment To the Universe – Besides uniting, the Caim circle, and especially when accompanied by prayer, is meant to ground you and make you one with the universe.
• A Reminder – The Caim Symbol is cast as a reminder of the universe’s love and protection over you or over the person on whose behalf it is cast.

Today's  Use

In today’s world, there are a lot of energies, both external and internal, that can affect or threaten us. You may find yourself worried about aspects of your family, health, jobs, or relationships. The Caim circle of protection is a reminder that these anxieties need not wear you down. You are reminded that you have a protector, who is always around you, and all you need to do is invoke this protector, and your life will be filled with love, peace, and prosperity.

Even though the Caim circle of protection is no longer cast at weddings, it still holds meaning and can still be used for its symbolic significance as long as you and your spouse agree that it can be a fun way to make your vows even more meaningful.

No matter what your religious affiliations may be, it doesn’t hurt to feel that extra confidence that someone is watching out for you. Whether you see it as just a symbolic assurance or you genuinely believe in its protection power, the Caim symbol can encompass you and offer you protection and confidence. When evoked by a couple, it can help cement unity, togetherness, and that special unbreakable bond.