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Irish Symbols: The Shamrock



The Shamrock has been used as a symbol of Ireland since the 18th century, much like the rose is symbolic of England and the thistle is symbolic of Scotland.  St. Patrick, a 5th Century Christian Bishop who visited Ireland, used this trefoil (3-leaved plant) to educate pagans about Christianity.  Patrick picked a shamrock from the grass growing at his feet and used it as a metaphor to explain The Holy Trinity: that God is three divine persons (The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), in One.

The shamrock is a traditional symbol worn by millions (Irish and Non-Irish alike!) all over the world on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17.  While the harp is Ireland’s national symbol, the shamrock has become Ireland’s international symbol.


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