Ancient Symbols of Ireland and St Patricks Day
St. Patrick’s Day is, as almost everyone knows, a traditional Irish Holiday. But knowing the history behind the symbols and even the Holiday itself can lead to increased enjoyment in the festivities.
St. Patrick:St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, was actually a real person. Born in Roman Britain in the fifth century, St. Patrick is credited with spreading Christianity throughout Ireland. He was originally brought to Ireland as a slave at the age of sixteen, but through his unfailing determination, managed to escape. Later in his life, he returned to Ireland as a missionary, bringing the good news of the Christian faith back with him. March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, is the anniversary of the missionary’s death. The festivities take place during the Catholic season of Lent.
The Shamrock:Shamrock, a traditional Irish symbol, has its roots deeply rooted in Irish tradition and mythology. St. Patrick is traditionally depicted as using the three-leaf clover to teach the Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The shamrock originally represented Irish nationality and the rebirth of spring. Naturally, the shamrock is widely used in the Irish-steeped Holiday of St. Patrick’s Day.
The Snake:The Snakerepresents the legend in which St. Patrick banished all serpents from Ireland. An article concerning this on theHistory Channel’s website, further adds that the legend represented the banishing of pagan religions from Ireland.
Corned Beef: According to aHistory Channel’s article, the traditional meal of corned beef and cabbage on St. Patrick’s Day originated not in Ireland, but in America. Irish immigrants learned from Jewish immigrants of a cheaper substitution to Irish bacon, and well, the rest is, no pun intended, History. (Thanks to the History Channel Website!)
The Celtic Cross: According toAncient Symbols, the Celtic Cross represents the fusion of old ways and new. Legend has it St. Patrick made the cross resemble the pagan sun wheel, presumably in an attempt to introduce Christianity more easily into the Irish culture. Whatever the reason, the result is a beautiful, traditional Irish symbol.
The Rainbow: The reason for the popular myth of gold at the end of a rainbow is not entirely known, butAncient Symbolsclaims that the rainbow represents dreams that are unlikely to be achieved. A deft explanation for trying to find gold beneath a rainbow!
Conclusion: St. Patrick’s Day, a traditional Christian Holiday, is an interesting fusion of Christian and Pagan traditions, as well as Americanized traditions such as corned beef. Although the current Holiday may not well be described as Christian, many people still observe the Holiday as a Christian one, viewing it as a rebirth of the spiritual life.
