Over the centuries, the humble shamrock plant has come to symbolise Ireland and all things Irish. The shamrock has become a key emblem associated with Saint Patrick’s Day, the custom of wearing one on the day is still observed and the plant is a common sight during the celebrations.
In this blog, we look into the many meanings of this key icon of Irish national identity.
What is a Shamrock?
The shamrock and the clover plants are often confused. Shamrocks are in fact a species of the clover plant. The word is derived from the Irish shamrĂłg which in turn comes from seamair Ăłg and this translates into English as: “young clover.”
An Emblem of St. Patrick
The shamrock is ingrained in Irish culture due to its association with St. Patrick – the patron saint of Ireland. Legends recount how St. Patrick used the three petals to teach the Trinity to Celtic pagans. Pictures of Saint Patrick depict him driving the snakes out of Ireland with a cross and a sprig of shamrocks.
However, the number three was believed to have magical properties long before the Saintâs arrival. It’s a recurring theme throughout Celtic folklore (na seanchaĂ). Consequently, the three petals of the shamrock were considered to be imbued with bring good luck.
ASymbol of Ireland
The shamrock has been used as a national symbol since the 18th century due to its association with Ireland’s patron saint – St. Patrick. It was around this time that the iconic Irish plant began to change from a symbol purely associated with St. Patrick to an Irish national symbol when it became an emblem for revolutionary nationalist groups.
In modern times however, the shamrock has taken on a far less militant meaning. It is now used by many state bodies to represent Ireland and Irish culture abroad. In fact, the symbol is protected by law as a trademark and its use is restricted to goods or services of Irish origin.
It has also become tradition for the Taoiseach to gift a bowl of shamrocks in a special Waterford Crystal bowl to the President of the USA every St. Patrick’s Day. This bowl features a shamrock design. This practice began in 1952. The Irish ambassador to Washington John Hearne sent a box of it to US president Harry S Truman.
Header Image from Pixabay
