Elements
To a magician, all magic is based on four Elements: Air, Fire, Water and Earth. Ancient occult philosophers and the Druids stated that all life is made of these four Elements; without them life could not exist. Tan or Teine (Fire in the old Celtic language) was considered the most sacred as it is the closest to pure energy.
These four Elements correspond to the four directions of our physical world, the four quarters of the universe, the four winds, and most importantly to the four quarters of the magical circle. Water and Earth are considered female energies; Fire and Air are male.
The four Elements are forces and energies that make up the universe and everything in it. They influence our personalities and magic. They also possess form as well as force. Each Element is known for having certain qualities, natures, moods and magical purposes; each has positive and negative traits. Magical ritual calls to each Elemental kingdom and its ruler to protect its quarter of the circle. Because of this, it is very important to completely understand what each Element is and does.
Celtic Magic
by D.J. Conway
ISBN 0-87542-136-9