SYMBOLS/MYTHS/LEGENDS-LEPRECHAUN

SYMBOLS/MYTHS/LEGENDS
LEPRECHAUN
A leprechaun n Irish folklore was, a little sprite, or goblin.
The name leprechaun may have derived from the Irish leath brogan or shoemaker, though its origins lay lie in laucharma’s Irish for pygmy.
These apparently aged, diminutive men are frequently to be found in an intoxicated state, caused by home-brew poteen. However they never become so drunk that the hand which holds the hammer becomes unsteady and their shoemaker’s work affected.
Leprechauns have also become self-appointed guardians of ancient treasure, burying it in crocks or pots.
If caught by a mortal, he will promise great wealth if allowed to go free. He carries two leather pouches. In one there is a silver shilling, a magical coin that returns to the purse each time it is paid out. In the other he carries a gold coin which he uses to try and bribe his way out of difficult situations. This coin usually turns to leaves or ashes once the leprechaun has parted with it.
The leprechaun ‘family’ appears split into two distinct groups – leprechaun and cluricaun. Although the leprechaun has been described as Ireland’s national fairy, this name was originally only used in the north Leinster area. Variants include lurcahmain, lurican, lurgadhan.
The legends of Ireland are rife with mentions of the charming, impish Lepechaun. If you are curious about the lore and history of your ancestral home, you may be interested in learning more about the leprechaun and his origins in the myths, folklore, and verse of the Emerald Isle.
The leprechaun is traditionally viewed as a mischievous little creature, who spends his days crafting shoes and storing his profits in the proverbial pot of gold. Legend has it that you can find the pot o’ gold if you listen closely for the hammering sounds the tiny fairy makes as he does his work.
Catching a leprechaun is hard work. They are inclined to resist contact with human beings, according to legend, and they are crafty. The leprechaun will share his secrets with you if you are lucky enough to find him. According to the tales of old, a leprechaun will lead you to his pot of gold and bestow his riches upon you, if you are clever enough to meet him.
The classic leprechaun of Irish folklore stands a mere 24 inches in height, and he will have a glint of mischief in his sparkling eyes. He will greet you with a bright, happy expression that may mask some element of trickery. Leprechauns enjoy their own prankish nature, and they will relish playing tricks to fool the people who seek them out.
Your leprechaun may have an appetite for fine malt whiskey and tobacco from a pipe. They are also rumored to be able to drink you under the table, despite their diminutive size! These pleasure seeking fairy creatures carry many secrets, and they will take pains to protect their treasure from prying eyes.
There are no female leprechauns. These elfin beings have inhabited the Emerald Isle for thousands of years, before the Druids practiced their Pagan faith in Ireland. In order to capture one of these elusive fairies, you must maintain eye contact with him. He cannot flee as long as you stare at one another. However, if you turn away from him, he will seize his chance and disappear.
Beware of the many hidden powers of the leprechaun. He may have the ability to hypnotize you, and his power will allow his to escape. Keep watch for his bright red coat, and his distinctive, pointed cap. He will be a sharp dresser, with many rows of decorative buttons upon his cloak.
The legend of the leprechaun is one of Ireland’s most charming tales. There are many symbols of Ireland, and the little limp who cobbles shoes and hides his riches in a pot of gold is just one example of the Irish story-telling tradition.
If you enjoy Irish symbols and folklore, you will find other examples on today’s Irish jewelry designs, which echo the tales of the Irish people. Shamrocks and Claddagh symbols all tell a story of centuries past, and they are a fine way to celebrate the gifts of story and verse that are a hallmark of the Irish people.