Shamrock – Based on the three leafed clover that abounds in Ireland, it’s cultural significance goes all the way back to St. Patrick and is uniquely tied with him as the symbol of Ireland.
Even prior to the arrival of Christianity, it was believed that the number 3 was a perfect number and had inherent mystical powers. No one is quite sure why they believed this but it is possible the number signified totality – past, present and future. The Celts attached great significance to the number and this is clearly expressed in their artistic symbolism.
St. Patrick, when he set out to convert the Celtic inhabitants of Ireland, used the significance of the number three, and, according to legend, he used the plant to illustrate the Christian concept of the Trinity.
About the Harp:
Based on the ancient lyre, the Irish harp is one of the world’s oldest instruments. The ancient Irish kings employed harpists to entertain them.
At one sad point in Irish history, conquering invaders made it illegal to possess an Irish harp, and set out to burn every harp in Ireland in an attempt to kill the “Irish spirit”. Greatly honoured, the harp is the national emblem of Ireland.
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