Shamrocks - History & Symbolism

What is a shamrock? Is it just a three or four leaved plant? Or does it symbolize something greater? The history of the shamrock dates back to 1571. Did you know this year marks the first written record of shamrocks?

The next written account of the shamrock is in Irish and occurs in 1707. The Irish word "seamrog" means little clover or summer plant. What an apt and fitting description of the famous shamrock!

The shamrock is recognized as the national symbol of Ireland, and all things Irish. Historically, the Druids who lived in Ireland held the shamrock in high esteem as a sacred object. They believed it was symbolic of the triad -- the mystic number three that can be found throughout their religion. Their belief was the world worked in powers of and multiples of three. It is easy to see how the three leaves of the shamrock would fit perfectly with their belief system.

In the 5^th century, a Catholic priest named Patrick was active in Ireland. Using the shamrock as a clever visual aid, he explained the mystery of the Trinity in simple terms. Father, Son, Spirit; three divine persons united as one, and symbolized by the humble plant. Patrick was very successful in converting to Catholicism scores of Irishmen, and was later named as a saint. Today, his devoted followers still wear a shamrock on the feast day that bears his name; Saint Patrick's day, the anniversary of his death.

Going into the 19^th century, the shamrock began to be repositioned from a primarily religious symbol to a symbol of rebellion and resistance to foreign rule. Irish rebels wore it proudly and defiantly to proclaim their heritage, even though they knew that the symbol might lead to their death. The term "wearing o' the green" is derived from this custom of wearing a shamrock on the lapel.

The shamrock has enjoyed a long and varied history. To many, it is a simple summer plant, fun to pick and craft into necklaces. For the Druids, it was their lucky charm. For the Christians in 5^th century Ireland, it was the symbol of their Triune God. Ireland and the Irish still embrace it today as a symbol of national pride and heritage. According to fourleafclover.com "Shamrocks have been considered by the Irish as good-luck symbols since earliest times, and this superstition has persisted in modern times among people of many nationalities." What does the shamrock symbolize for you?

http://www.fourleafclover.com/3fact.html
http://www.history.com/encyclopedia.do?articleId=218753