Ogham is an ancient alphabet that was used in Ireland and parts of Britain during the early Middle Ages. It consists of a series of lines and notches carved into stone or wood, and was primarily used for inscriptions and written communication.
The origins of Ogham are still debated by scholars, but it is believed to have been created by the Celts in Ireland around the 4th century. Some theories suggest that it may have been inspired by Latin or Greek alphabets, while others propose that it was developed independently.
The Ogham symbols, also known as "feda", are believed to represent sounds or letters in the ancient Irish language. There are 25 symbols in total, each corresponding to a different letter or sound. The symbols are read from bottom to top or left to right.
Ogham played a significant role in early Irish society, as it was used for inscriptions on monuments and objects, as well as for written communication. It was also believed to have magical or mystical properties, and was associated with the Druids and their divination practices.
Ogham continues to fascinate and intrigue scholars and researchers today due to its unique and mysterious nature. Its origins, meaning, and purpose are still being studied and debated, and new discoveries are being made about its usage and significance in ancient Ireland.