Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Shamrocks and Four-leaf Clovers








Here is some interesting information that came to my attention today.

The four-leaf clover is often confused with the shamrock. While the four-leaf clover is a symbol of good luck, the three-leafed shamrock is mainly an Irish Christian symbol of the Holy Trinity and has a different significance.

The shamrock is a symbol of Ireland. It is a three-leafed old white clover. The shamrock has been registered as a trademark by the Government of Ireland.

The shamrock is a traditional icon of St. Patrick's Day because it tells how Patrick used the three-leafed shamrock to explain how the Trinity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit could exist as separate parts of the same being. His followers took to wearing a shamrock in celebration.

The St. Patrick's Day custom came to America in 1737. That was the first year St. Patrick's Day was publicly celebrated in Boston. Today, St. Patrick's Day is celebrated with large parades, the wearing of the green, and drinking beer.

9 comments:

Bella Sinclair said...

Oooh, I'm just going to squeeze in here before the day officially ends (for me) and wish you a Happy St. Patrick's Day! Hope you did not get pinched.

You know, I learned the difference between the shamrock and the 4-leaf a few years ago. My very Irish Catholic friend had me make St. Patrick's Day cards for her family, and I peppered the thing with 4-leaf clovers. When I found out the difference later, I was mortified. Aaah well, she was too polite to complain. :)

Ann said...

It is good that you have got it correct.

Gail H. Ragsdale said...

I had no idea! Very interesting and I will remember the difference. Thank you!

Marlene said...

Hi, Hope your St Paddy's Day was a great one.

Diva Kreszl said...

great info, I also heard that the four leaf clover is a genetic mutation of the three lleaf clover and occurs one in every then thousand!

Unknown said...

oh how neat...I never knew this...My Mom found some 4 leaf clovers at our house and I was so thrilled!!!

wonderful post Audrey!!!

Have a wonderful day!!!

Hugs
Diana

Jan said...

After reading this I had to go look up our Oxalis to find out the difference between it and the shamrock. The forest floor here is full of oxalis, also called Wood Sorrel, also called False Shamrock. Whatever it might be called it is very pretty, and edible too. Thanks for setting us straight on the shamrock. See, I learn from your blog too!

Anonymous said...

You had me confused by the first grouping of clovers and the 16th date as I thought perhaps you were mixed up. Anyhow, I dearly love the new St. Pat's Day pictures with the descriptions---good job! And, the 17th date just put me on the map! Glory be to the saints! You know who.

Ces Adorio said...

Aren't they just leaves?

Okay
okay
okay

I am just joking.

You forgot to pinch me on St. Patrick's day!