The Meanings of Irish Symbols

 There are many symbols we relate to the Irish holiday that is Saint Patrick's Day! Most of these came from ancient traditions, legends, and history! 

One of the most iconic symbols of Saint Patrick's Day, and Ireland in general, is the shamrock! In early Irish culture the Christian missionaries used these three leafed clovers as a metaphor representing The Holy Trinity (God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit). The meaning of the word shamrock is ''young clover" so it's now a common nickname for kids and teenagers. 

In the 8th century, lore started circling about tiny men stealing water from Celtic wells. These tiny men are what we now as leprechauns! Now they are more known for trickery and leaving disappearing gold at the end of rainbows. These characters are featured in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire at the Quidditch World Cup. They throw gold up into the crowd and later the gold vanishes keeping Ireland's fun heritage alive. 

The Celtic harp has become popular again in the 20th century with Irish bands gaining traction around the world! It's an important emblem being not only on the Irish Euro but also on every can and bottle of Guinness sold. This ancient character embodies, "the spirit and essence of the Irish people and is said to represent the immortality of the soul," according to theirishroadtrip.com. These Celtic relics are well-known in the Americas and characterize Saint Patrick's Day, but also have ancient meanings!

Written By Emersyn Perkins