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Choosing an Irish Dictionary For Beginners

Monday, July 27th, 2009

The Irish language, often known as Irish Gaelic outside of Ireland, is usually simply referred to as “Irish” in Ireland. The language is beautiful to listen to, and encompasses the rich traditional culture of Ireland through the ages.

Once widespread throughout the country, the language suffered greatly over the last few hundred years. Today, about 3% of the population of 4 million people use Irish as their main community daily language.

While this may sound unfortunate, the language has put its worst years behind it. Indeed, there is a new energy felt by the speakers of the language. It has shaken much of its stigma that was attached to it even only fifteen years ago. Many young people now have an interest in the language, much helped by media entertainment now available through the language.

The language is also growing outside of Ireland. Online communities such as Daltai.com and IrishGaelicTranslator.com show us that there are hundreds of people actively learning the language. This is the case even for people with no direct ancestry to be found in Ireland.

If you’re setting off on learning to speak the language, an essential tool for any serious learner is an Irish dictionary. There is a limited range of dictionaries available to the user, but yet there is a rich mix of strengths and weaknesses to the dictionaries that are available.

As a learner, you don’t want to be overcome by the grammatical detail of a dictionary, but you also need a dictionary that covers a wide range of every-day Irish speech. You’ll also want a two way dictionary (both English-Irish and Irish-English).

As a learner, you don’t need anything too fancy to start learning, which is why I suggest Foclóir Scoile. This dictionary is edited by an Irish state-owned publishing company. The title literally means “School Dictionary”. It features a relevant mix of every-day speak for the Irish language. As a plus, it’s quite compact and easy to get a hold of.

As a bonus tip, I suggest watching Irish language television (TG4) and listening to Irish language radio (Raidió na Gaeltachta) to get a real taste of the beautiful rhythm of the language.

This article has been written by Eoin of Irish Dictionary . The Irish dictionary is a collaborative effort by the Irish language community. It is a fast easy to search dictionary where user submissions are welcome.

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7 Reasons to Be Proud to Be Irish

Monday, July 13th, 2009

Sometimes with all the financial scandals we are currently hearing about we lose sight of our true Spirit. Whether this is Irish, American, English, Scottish or whatever, it is important to remind ourselves of our true Spirit which is far greater than any recession and far deeper than any surface financial storm. In fact perhaps this very financial storm is the catalyst for realigning us with our true Spirit and values. What might some of these values be? What do you think they are? What top three values would you like your nationality to have?

Here’s some important values which make me proud to be Irish:

1. Generosity of Spirit - “when I’m hungry give me someone to feed” is what I believe Mother Theresa said. Perhaps because of our history, in particular the famine 1847, when 1 million Irish people died and 1 million had to emigrate (a quarter of the Irish population at the time) we’ve been very generous in giving to causes around the world and many Irish people have dedicated their whole lives to helping the much less well off. Lets show the world that our generosity far surpasses any greed that has been highlighted in recent times.

2. Friendliness - “Cead Mile Failte”, this of course means 100,000 welcomes. The Irish have been known as a very friendly race and indeed it has been an attraction for many tourists over the years. Let us open our hearts once more to welcome everyone into this island of ours and let them experience true Irish friendliness, fun and great value!

3. Family Values - “The strength of a nation derives from the integrity of the home” - Confucius. The future of the human race is in our children, not our property or share portfolio. Most of all we MUST give our children our love and our time. In giving them our time, a resource which none of us will ever get back we demonstrate at a deep level how important they are to us and how much we love them. Up to quite recent times the Irish were known to be quite laid back and we had a lot more time for our families and other people. Let us give more time to our families and as a society lets reward this rather than rewarding those who sell unscrupulous financial investments. We must learn to teach our children well because the very future of humanity depends on it.

4. Sporting Values - the Irish play sport all over the world whether its gaelic football, soccer, rugby, boxing, athletics, cycling and so on. And there’s one thing for sure, we are known for having a lot of fun around it. We bring music and “craic” to it all whether we win or lose. Lets keep celebrating this!

5. A deep sense of History - there’s literally millions of people around the world, in particular in the USA that claim Irish decent, far more than there are Irish people!!! Over the centuries the Irish influence has spread far and wide and there is much to be proud of. We were once even called the “Isle of Saints and Scholars”. Lets remind ourselves of the great people that once walked this land, our Mothers and Fathers, our writers and poets, our sports people, our true visionaries, our musicians, our economists and business people who built their careers with integrity and a sense of service, the mainstream clergy who’s intention was to educate us in mind and Spirit, our medics, our teachers, our true Politicians and the millions more who gave of their lives in the greater service of the Irish people and indeed all of humanity. It is because of their sacrifice and vision we enjoy all the blessings we have today. The question we MUST now ask ourselves is - what blessings will we leave for our children?

6. A Spiritual Connection - “Be Still and Know”. The Irish have always had a Spiritual tradition in fact we’ve had a few and have often fought about them! However no matter what religion or even non-religion we have aligned ourselves with, the Irish have always felt a strong connection to the divine. There are countless historical sites around Ireland echoing this spiritual wisdom from our ancestors. Let us not get caught up too much in the “doingness” of life that we do not have time to enjoy the journey of “being” and connecting with this divine invisible presence that is always with us. Indeed this very presence constantly offers us guidance on our lifes journey, should we take the time to listen.

7. Peace prevails in Ireland - for approximately 800 years there has been trouble in Ireland, in the main with our closest neighbours the English. In 1998 a peace agreement was signed and at this stage even the IRA have disarmed. Yet how much celebration has there been about peace? How much do we hear about the positive developments since the peace deal was signed? How much have we got to offer to the many other places of conflict around the world to help peace be realised there? Peace in the main has been realised in Ireland, lets at least put as much energy into spreading this amazing news as we do to bombarding the world with bad news!

Given these seven values I for one am proud to say I’m Irish. Of course I’m sure there are many more reasons to be proud to be Irish and I invite you to share yours in the comments below. I also invite you if you’re from any other nationality to share reasons why you are proud of your nationality. As the Chinese say “Its better to light a candle than curse the darkness”

Here’s another verse from an appropriate song to finish this article.

When Irish hearts are happy,

All the world seems bright and gay.

And when Irish eyes are smiling,

Sure, they steal your heart away.

by Sean M Kelly
http://www.seanMkelly.com

Sean M Kelly is an international professional speaker, musician and author. Living in his native land Ireland he has travelled widely delivering his own unique style of professional and personal development talks and training. His current book “A Pipers Tales - Celtic Wisdom to Nourish the Soul” is already selling well across the globe. Sean is always interested in sharing stories and music which inspire people to live greater lives.

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The Celtic Cross - An Irish Symbol of Faith and Hope

Monday, July 6th, 2009

In the holy ground of the churchyards of Ireland, simple stone crosses rest in remembrance of those who have passed. For centuries, these ringed crosses, known as Celtic Crosses, have been used as symbols of faith and hope, along with other crosses, such as High Crosses. A true Celtic Cross will always include a central ring, which is thought to be borrowed from Pagan rituals of yore, representing the Sun. The four points of the Celtic Cross represent the four directions, north, south, east and west.

When Celtic Crosses first appeared in Ireland, they were often decorated with Runic symbols, and sometimes with zoomorphic images of animals as well. While they may have been considered Pagan symbols back in the day, Celtic Crosses have become potent symbols of Christianity in Ireland.

The Insular Art movement produced many fine examples of Celtic Crosses, throughout Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Insular Art is complex, symbolic, and somewhat mysterious. The art movement gained its name from the fact that is was impossible to ascertain exactly where the art may have been made. Often, art treasures and metalwork was moved from one country to another.

It is certain that many Celtic Crosses were made in Ireland, rather than simply brought there, but others have a hazier origin. The Insular art movement began after the Romans retreated from Celtic lands, and grew stronger as the Celtic people embraced Christianity.

Irish master artists have a long tradition of expertise with metalwork and stonework, and, in past centuries, they added real beauty and meaning to Celtic Crosses. Unlike the Crucifix, which features painful and sad images of Jesus in his suffering, the Celtic Cross is more decorative and less graphic. For example, the Celtic Cross often features carved symbols and intricate knot work that symbolize life-force and the eternal nature of all things. Irish master craftsmen sought out many small variations to the Celtic Cross, adding a rich, three-dimensional quality to the simple structure.

Some other examples of decoration used to enhance the beauty of stone and metal Celtic Crosses are whorls and spirals, popular symbols used in many Celtic designs of the Insular Art period. Some symbols remain wrapped in mystery, years later, but their frequent use in Celtic art and design speaks to spiritual meanings, and to the notion of eternity. The spiral, in particular, is thought to represent growth, and the journey through life.

When the first High Crosses appeared in Celtic lands during the ninth century, they were often adorned with zoomorphic, or animal, symbols…but why? Some people feel that many aspects of Celtic and High Crosses were borrowed from the Druids, who worshipped the natural world.

The addition of complex, richly-detailed animal symbols such as wolfhounds, birds, and other creatures, may have been passed down from the Druids. Zoomorphic symbols faded in popularity over the years, and Celtic Crosses continued to evolve into their modern variations.

Today, master craftsmen still embrace the beauty and meaning of Celtic Crosses, and many Irish families still place a Cross on the grave of a loved one, to symbolize their faith in a higher power. Today, Celtic Crosses can also be found in jewelry designs such as pendants, and they are crafted of gold, silver, and often precious stones such as emeralds and diamonds. The pleasing lines and intricate knot work of modern Celtic Cross jewelry designs have made them popular choices for many wearers who wish to honor their Celtic heritage.

If you travel to Ireland, you will find ancient and modern examples of the Celtic Cross in churches, churchyards, and other landmarks. It is thought that some Celtic Crosses were placed in the ground in order to guide travelers on their journey.

The timeless nature of the Celtic Cross ensures that each generation discovers its meaning and history, decade after decade. The crosses are a touching symbol of the past, and an important way to remain in touch with the beliefs and spirit of Christianity. Celtic Crosses will always remain an integral part of Irish art and culture, whether they are worn as pendants, or placed in remembrance upon the final resting place of a loved one.

The fascinating history and meaning of Celtic Crosses is often steeped in mystery, but there is no doubt that the love of God prompted their creation. For this reason, they will always retain their appeal, and represent the special, unique nature of the Celtic people.

Leigh Maher researches and writes about Celtic jewelry, and specialises in Celtic wedding rings, engagement rings and bridal jewelry. Click here for more information about Celtic cross jewelry

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Irish Jewelry and Its Romantic Symbols

Monday, June 29th, 2009

Irish jewelry is a timeless reminder of the cultural traditions of the Irish people. Its symbols and meanings are powerful ways to connect with your family ancestry. If you are searching for the perfect Irish ring, pendant, or earrings, you may be curious about the romantic symbols that give these pieces their charm and depth.

We’ve compiled a list of the most common designs found on today’s exquisite, handcrafted pieces. You can browse our list and read about the stories and histories that lay behind the intricate spirals, knot work, and other ancient symbols of Ireland.

Familiarizing yourself with the art and history that is an important part of your heritage will allow for a richer appreciation of your Irish jewelry. You will enjoy learning about the spiritual significance of the designs, and the way they reflect thousands of years of Irish faith and loyalty.

As well, many symbols carry a romantic aura that comes from the Irish storytelling tradition. There are wonderful tales of love and devotion that are an integral part of today’s rings, earrings, and necklaces. Here is our guide to the romantic symbols of Irish jewelry:

Claddagh Symbols - The story of the first Claddagh ring is simple, but profoundly romantic. Richard Joyce worked as a fisherman in Moorish lands, far from his native Galway. During his travels, he was kidnapped by pirates and forced to work for a goldsmith. Joyce became a skilled craftsman, crafting jewelry out of precious metals. During his slavery, he never forgot his one true love, Margaret, who also waited for him to return.

He crafted a special ring in her honor, which features two tiny hands, gently holding onto a crowned heart. These symbols were meant to illustrate his love and his continued loyalty to her. When Joyce was freed, years after being kidnapped, he returned to Galway, Ireland, and reunited with Margaret. She wore her special ring and remained together for the rest of their lives.

Interlace - During the sixth century, the master artisans of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales created a new art movement, that relied on the use of symbols such as Interlace. The Insular Art movement gave rise to many powerful works of art, and it showcased the unparalleled skill of metal work created by Irish masters.

Interlace is delicate knot work that appears in many forms of Celtic art. It can be found on High and Celtic crosses in Irish churchyards. It can also be found in historical treasures such as the Book of Kells, an illuminated text that depicts stories from the gospel. On today’s jewelry designs, interlace is often found in the form of Trinity Knots. The distinctive, trefoil design of a traditional Trinity Knot is meant to represent the Holy Trinity, and it is also a symbol of faithfulness and love everlasting.

Spirals - The gentle, curving whorls that adorn today’s Irish jewelry designs are a symbol of the physical and spiritual journey through existence. They are meant to represent a sense of balance that is universal and eternal. The spiral radiates outward from the center, just as we radiate out to the world around us, from our own spiritual center.

Whorls are symbols of life force and of the many phases of a human being’s journey through life. Each new circle represents a new step on the quest towards spiritual fulfillment and peace. Whorls that feature clockwise turns are believed to be remnants of Pagan Sun worship. Spirals that feature a counter clockwise direction were once thought to be to a part of Pagan magical rituals.

Shield/Warrior Symbols - The most famous examples of Celtic shield symbols are found on the Irish Ardagh Chalice. These symbols are meant to be expressions of protection and strength. The Ardagh Chalice featured the same shield symbols you will find on today’s Irish wedding rings and other pieces.

Today, the Ardagh Chalice is one of the finest examples of 8th century metal work in the world. Choosing warrior/shield symbols for your own Irish jewelry will reflect the brave, proud spirit of the Irish Warriors of that time period.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this look into the symbols of Ireland, with their romantic meanings and their timeless appeal. Whatever you choose, you can be sure there are thousands of years of cultural tradition in the symbols found on your jewelry design.

Leigh Maher researches and writes about Celtic jewelry, and specialises in Celtic wedding rings, engagement rings and bridal jewelry. Click here for more information about Irish wedding rings.

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All About the Irish

Monday, June 15th, 2009

Dublin, the largest city and capital of Ireland, is a fast-growing city at the mouth of the River Liffey. Dublin is a cultural and economic center for all of Ireland and has a long and rich history that dates back to A.D. 140.

The geopolitical names for the region have changed over the centuries, but Dublin has acted as the capital of Ireland from the twelfth century on. During the period from 1171 to 1541, the area was known as the Lordship of Ireland. Until 1800, it was the Kingdom of Ireland. From 1801 until 1922, it was part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. The Irish Republic of 1919 to 1922 was then partitioned into the Irish Free State, which it remained until 1949. Dublin is now the capital of the Republic of Ireland.

The Easter Rising of 1916 destroyed parts of the city center and the Anglo-Irish War and Irish Civil War destroyed much more. For most of the early 20th century, Dublin remained untouched by time. It was often called the 19th Century City of Europe. The film industry took notice of Dublin’s unique architectural situation and realized it was an excellent venue for historical films. The Oscar(r) winning film My Left Foot was filmed in Dublin.

Filmmaking became a prominent industry in Dublin and the city began to see increased prosperity. Many of its historic buildings were restored and new, modern buildings began to spring up.

Dublin is perhaps best known for its literary history. George Bernard Shaw, William Butler Yates and Samuel Beckett are all native Dubliners. Other famous Dublin writers include Oscar Wilde, Jonathan Swift and Bram Stoker. The most famous, of course, is James Joyce. Ulysses, his most celebrated work, is set in Dublin.

Today, Dublin is home to several theaters, which specialize in a variety of productions including plays, opera, dance and film. The world-famous Abbey Theater provided a venue for the works of George Bernard Shaw among others. Many current and well-known actors hail from Dublin including Gabriel Byrne, Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson.

The Irish arts community thrives in Dublin. Many fine museums and collections are located within its borders. Rare books, public art, modern art, drawings, prints and decorative arts are well represented in the galleries and museums of Dublin.

Dublin’s young population base (possible 50% under age 25) lends itself to a vibrant nightlife and club scene. Live music is available in many popular bars, and the city is proud of the internationally famous bands to come out of their city. Superstars such as U2, The Boomtown Rats and Sinead O’Connor are all native Dubliners.

There are three universities in Dublin, including the University of Dublin, which is the oldest university in Ireland.

Croke Park, the fourth largest stadium in Europe is located in Dublin and it hosts football and hurling games as well as concerts and performances. Rugby is played at Lansdowne Road Stadium.

As the city struggles to manage growth and historic preservation, Dublin continues to expand. Major retail shopping malls have been completed within its borders and several redevelopment projects are planned.

For more information on Dublin, Ireland visit http://dublinmicroblog.com and http://irelandmicroblog.com

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20 Interesting and Fun Facts About Ireland

Monday, May 25th, 2009

Famous symbols of Ireland…

The harp, also known as the national symbol of Ireland, the Celtic cross, the shamrock and the Irish wolfhound are all well known Irish symbols.

Religion…

The majority of the Irish population are Roman Catholic (88%).

National language…

Gaelic is Ireland’s national language. Only in the Gaeltacht (Irish speaking) areas of Ireland will you find that Irish is used as the everyday language. In all other parts of Ireland, English is the spoken language.

Music…

Ireland’s most famous musical export would have to be U2, closely followed by The Boomtown Rats, Thin Lizzy and more recently Boyzone and Westlife.

Hollywood factor…

The cream of the crop includes Richard Harris, Pierce Brosnan, Cillian Murphy and Colin Farrell.

The world of literature…

To our credit, Ireland has produced Bram Stoker, James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, William Butler Yeats, Maeve Binchy and Celia Aherne.

Patron Saint…

Saint Patrick, who brought Christianity to Ireland in around 430. St Patrick’s Day is celebrated in Ireland, and indeed all over the world, on March 17th.

Our capital - Dublin…

Dublin was founded by the Vikings in 988 and was originally called Dubh Linn (which means Black Pool in Irish).

First Saint Patrick’s Day parade…

Boston was the proud host with an event organised by the Charitable Irish Society in 1737.

The White House…

James Hoban, a Kilkenny born architect, won a competition to design the original White House.

Famous outlaws…

Grace O’Malley (Queen of the Pirates) operated off the west coast of Ireland and Ned Kelly (son of an Irish convict) was an infamous Australian outlaw.

Highest mountain…

Killarney, County Kerry is home to the highest mountain - Carrantouhill, part of the mountain range the McGillycuddy Reeks.

Longest river…

The river Shannon rises in County Cavan and is approximately 240 miles long. It contains 3 lakes, Lough Allen, Lough Ree and Lough Derg.

Irish delicacies…

Drisheen is a type of pudding made from cow’s, pigs or sheeps blood. White pudding is a mixture of pork, cereal, bread, fat and suet. Periwinkles are sea snails boiled in salted water.

Guinness…

To trip to Ireland would be complete without sampling a pint of the black stuff! It’s said that no matter where you go in the world, only in Ireland will you be served the most velvety, and creamiest pint of the “black stuff”.

Bailey’s Irish Cream…

This hugely popular liquor has been around since the ’70’s.

Irish pubs…

Stumble upon a “trad night”, throw in the customary singsong, a bit of Irish dancing and you’re in for a crackin’ evening!

A sporting nation…

Irish people are very passionate about Gaelic games - football, hurling, rounders, handball and camogie. Rugby and soccer are also very well supported in Ireland.

The great outdoors…

The Cavan Way, The Dingle Way and The Kerry Way are just some of the country’s scenic walking routes that offer a great opportunity to sample Ireland’s breathtaking countryside.

Sense of humour…

There’s nothing like the Irish sense of humour, wit and play with words. Have a look at the below examples:

“not backwards in coming forwards” - means a person is not shy.

“no flies on him” - means a person is not easily deceived.

“she has a tongue that would clip a hedge” - means a person who gossips.

“come for a day and stay for a week” - means someone outstaying their welcome.

Just a few facts to ponder over - for a small island we certainly have a lot going for us!

Mairead Foley writes for the Ireland travel and accommodation website http://www.GoIreland.com

Heading to Ireland in the near future? Then check out GoIreland.com for everything you need to know before your visit. You can also check out our quality Ireland accommodation.

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