A shamrock, a small sprig, has been a traditional symbol of Ireland for over a thousand years. St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, is believed to have first used it as a religious symbol, as the symbol of the Trinity. The name shamrock originally comes from the Irish term seamróg, which means “little grasshopper”.
In fact, the shamrock can be traced back to ancient times in the Northern part of India. Its use as a religious symbol, particularly for Christians, spread rapidly in Europe as people from the new world travelled there during the sixteenth century. The shamrock then became a national symbol of Ireland in 1690, as it was adopted by the British Royal Irish Regiment.
Other iconic symbols of Irish heritage are Aran Sweaters. Why not consider Aran Sweaters from Ireland as a gift for the Ireland lovers in your life?
As the meaning of the shamrock expanded, it was soon associated with other symbols as well. For instance, a shamrock leaf in the shape of a heart is often put on the lapel of an Irishman’s uniform. This shows that it is considered a symbol of love and loyalty in Ireland. There are some who believe that it also represents the spirit world; they say that if the shamrock has a tear or a wound in its stem, it may mean that one has passed over into another world, like death. It is also believed that if a shamrock falls on a grave, then it is a good omen, as it indicates that the body will be delivered to heaven.
The shamrock has become a very popular plant among tourists in Ireland, as it has become an iconic symbol of the Emerald Isle.
