The Shamrock and all It Symbolizes in Ireland

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A three leaf clover, also known as a shamrock, is an Irish symbol that was used by Saint Patrick to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity. Saint Patrick was a missionary and bishop in Ireland during the 5th century. Saint Patrick died on March 17th. This day is celebrated for his remembrance through the well-known holiday called St. Patrick’s Day. Shamrock is a name that refers to the Irish word “clover,” which many people mistake for the four leaf clover. The use and belief of the shamrock goes back to the land of the Druids. The Irish have many traditions and beliefs that they follow in their normative society. Geert Hofstede, a physiologist known for developing the five cultural dimensions, categorized Ireland as a high individualistic, low power distance, and high masculinity culture.
The shamrock has been an Irish symbol since the eighteenth century and has become a national symbol due to its association with Saint Patrick. Saint Patrick, also known as the “Patron of Ireland,” was born in Scotland in the year 387. At a young age, he was taken from a raiding party and became a slave to Ireland for six years. During those six years, he was responsible for herding sheep in the land of Druids. Saint Patrick “learned the language and practices of the people who held him” (Catholic). He prayed every day to God for a helping hand through this rough time and God revealed to him how to escape though a dream.
After his captivity, Saint Patrick studied to become a priest under the guidance of Saint Germanus. Saint Germanus, the bishop of Auxerre, helped Saint Patrick prepare for priesthood for many years. When he was ordained bishop, he practiced his teachings in Ireland, where he converted many people to Christianity. “Patrick was a ...

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"St Patrick's Day Celebrations - Irish Traditions & Customs." St Patrick's Day Celebrations-
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"St. Patrick - Saints & Angels - Catholic Online." St. Patrick - Saints & Angels - Catholic
Online. N.p., 2013. Web. 19 Apr. 2014. .
"The Four Leaf Clover." The Four Leaf Clover. N.p., 2007. Web. 19 Apr. 2014.
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"THE HOFSTEDE CENTRE." Ireland. N.p., n.d. Web. 19 Apr. 2014.
hofstede.com/ireland.html

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