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Nuada

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Nuada Airgetlám (Nuada of the Silver Hand) was the first king of the Tuatha Dé Danann in Irish mythology. He led his people to Ireland but lost his arm in the First Battle of Mag Tuired against the Fir Bolg, requiring him to abdicate as Irish kings had to be physically unblemished. The physician Dian Cecht fitted him with a silver prosthesis, and he later regained his throne, but was killed by Balor of the Evil Eye during the Second Battle of Mag Tuired against the Fomorians.

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Who is Nuada Airgetlám in Irish mythology?

Nuada Airgetlám, or Nuada of the Silver Hand, was the first king of the Tuatha Dé Danann. He is one of the important royal figures in the mythological cycle of Ireland.

Why did Nuada lose his hand?

Nuada lost an arm during the First Battle of Mag Tuired against the Fir Bolg. Because Irish kings were expected to be physically unblemished, he had to abdicate after the injury.

How did Nuada get the name Silver Hand?

A replacement hand made of silver was created for Nuada after he lost his arm. The epithet Airgetlám means Silver Hand and refers directly to that episode.

What happened to Nuada's kingship after his injury?

Nuada temporarily gave up the kingship because the injury made him physically ineligible under the tradition described in the myth. He later returned to the story as a restored and important leader of the Tuatha Dé Danann.

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