NIGHTBRINGER | The Arthurian Encyclopedia

Saint Patrick

Latin: Patricius
Irish: Pádraig
Welsh: Padrig
Born: c. 387
Died: 461

Saint Patrick, also known as the Apostle of Ireland, is one of the most well-known and revered figures in Irish history and Christian tradition.

Saint Patrick was born in the late fourth century, likely around 387 AD, in Roman Britain. At the age of sixteen, he was captured by Irish raiders and taken as a slave to Ireland. He spent several years in captivity, working as a shepherd, during which he developed a deep faith in Christianity.

Saint Patrick is claimed to have experienced a vision from God, urgin him to escape and return to his homeland. After his escape, he became a cleric and received education and training in the Christian faith. He later felt a calling to return to Ireland as a missionary to spread Christianity and convert the pagan Irish people.

He traveled extensively throughout Ireland, preaching the Gospel, establishing churches, and baptizing converts. His ministry spanned several decades, and he faced numerous challenges and opposition from both pagan rulers and other religious figures.

Several legends and symbols are asssociated with Saint Patrick. The most famous is the story of him using the three-leafed shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity. The symbol of the shamrock became closely associated with him and is now an emblem of Ireland. Another legend attributes the banishment of snakes from Ireland to him, although this is likely symbolic rather than literal.


See also
Dareca | The Legend of King Arthur


Note
The name Patrick means a ‘senator’, a ‘nobleman’.