The Irish Legend Of The Shamrock


Long ago, when Ireland was the land of Druids, there was a great Bishop, Patrick by name, who came to teach the word of God throughout the country. This saint, for he was indeed a saint, was well loved everywhere he went. One day, however, a group of his followers came to him and admitted that it was difficult for them to believe in the doctrine of the Holy Trinity.


Saint Patrick reflected a moment and then, stooping down, he plucked a leaf from the shamrock and held it before them, bidding them to behold the living example of the "Three-in-One." The simple beauty of this explanation convinced these skeptics, and from that day, the shamrock has been revered throughout Ireland.


It has been said that St. Patrick also used the shamrock to demonstrate the mystery of the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) to the Ancient High Kings of Ireland. The word shamrock is derived from the Irish "seamrog," meaning "summer plant." The symbol of the shamrock is found on Irish medieval tombs and on old copper coins, know as St. Patrick's money. The plant was reputed to have mystic powers --- the leaves standing upright to warn of an approaching storm.


Green is associated with St. Patrick's Day because it is the color of the shamrock, the color of Spring and new life, and the color of Ireland. The Irish landscape is green all year round. The shamrock is worn by millions of people all over the world on St. Patrick's Day, not only by the Irish and those of Irish descent, but by all who relate to the indominable spirit of Ireland.