Saint Patrick’s day - All Snakes day

The truth about Saint Patrick and Irish paganism is often misunderstood. Contrary to popular belief, Patrick did NOT rid Ireland of the Druids, nor was he the first Christian to arrive. Palladius likely holds that distinction. In fact, Patrick’s influence on Irish paganism during his lifetime was minimal, and it wasn’t until centuries later that he became wrongfully identified as the mass converter of Ireland.

The Patrick most people know is a product of myths, shaped by legend and Church influence.

The reality is that Irish pagan traditions did not disappear with Patrick’s arrival (March 25, 433). They endured for centuries, showing up in Brehon Law texts and later hymns that protect against the “spells of wrights and Druids.”

The Druids evolved into the “filidh,” Poets highly esteemed in medieval Ireland, the fili were not only masters of poetry but also experts in prophecy, law, and genealogy. Their influence in society remained significant until the 1600s.

It’s time to reconsider the story we’ve been told about Saint Patrick. Rather than focusing on a myth, let’s remember the persistence of Irish paganism, the resilience of her people, and the rich cultural history that has always been part of the island’s identity. ☘️

‘Maybe it’s time to stop feeding energy into a Christian narrative about Patrick and his life that is not only false but actively harmful to us.’ -Morgan Daimler

It helps to acknowledge the complex history surrounding colonization and religion and their impacts on the pagan society, mythos, and legends of the native people of Ireland. While I respect the various beliefs and traditions that exist, I firmly believe that no belief system should cause harm to individuals or communities. The ongoing efforts to restore and celebrate the sacred sites and rich cultural heritage of Ireland are commendable and play a crucial role in honoring and preserving the identity of its people.

#SaintPatrick #IrishPaganism #DruidHistory #PaganTruth #CulturalHeritage #AllSnakesDay #PaganResilience #ancesterveneration

Sources:

Sufenas Virius Lupus, various writings on Celtic Reconstructionist Paganism and Irish mythology.

Ronald Hutton, Blood & Mistletoe: The History of the Druids in Britain.

The Irish Pagan School, resources and articles on the history of Irish paganism and the myths surrounding St. Patrick.

The Brehon Laws, ancient Irish legal texts

In summary, it's important to clarify that St. Patrick did not lead a massacre, and perpetuating this idea can be harmful to Irish stories and communities. It's perfectly fine to celebrate "All Snakes Day" in solidarity with pagans, even though it does not correlate to any truth other than what the myth of St. Patrick represents. We should also be mindful and respectful of the Irish people and their own traditions. Both celebrations can coexist, even if they are both rooted in mythos.