Mythology, Religion & Legend — Power Ranking TOP 100
I wrote a book ranking the most powerful gods, monsters, and heroes from world mythology, religion, and legend! The ranking is heavily influenced by my own perspective, but every placement is grounded in the actual lore and episodes from each mythology, so I think it makes for a satisfying read.
In this post, I’d like to introduce some of the characters featured in the ranking. There are many more beyond the ones mentioned here, so if you’re interested in mythology, religion, or legend, I think you’ll enjoy it!
Rank 79: Nuada (Celtic Mythology)
Overview
Nuada is the king of the Tuatha Dé Danann (Tribe of Danu) in Celtic mythology and the predecessor of the god of light Lugh. He is primarily known as a god of warfare and kingship. On the battlefield he performed many acts of valor, including slaying Sreng, the greatest warrior of the Fir Bolg.
Having lost his right arm in battle, he replaced it with “Airgetlám (the Silver Arm),” earning him the epithet “Nuada Silver-Arm.” Many people who may not know the name Nuada are likely familiar with the name Airgetlám.
He was ultimately killed by Balor, the most powerful giant class figure in Celtic mythology.
The sword Nuada wields is one of the “Four Treasures of the Tuatha Dé Danann” and is commonly known as “Claíomh Solais” in later tradition — though this name never appears in the original myths and was a label applied after the fact.
Why This Ranking
While it is clear from his role in divine warfare that he is strong, the gods of Celtic mythology are not invincible beings with overwhelming power as in other mythologies — nor are they immortal — which means Nuada’s power is roughly that of a standard war god by mythological standards.
Additionally, Nuada was defeated by Balor, while the god of light Lugh defeated Balor — so it is certain that Nuada ranks below both Lugh and Balor in terms of power.
Even so, I believe he would certainly surpass human-level heroes, so I placed him at this position in the ranking.
