The short answer: the trinity knot, or triquetra, is a symbol made of three interlaced arcs. Since the 19th century it has most often been read as the Holy Trinity, and more broadly as a symbol of three things bound together for ever: love, family or faith. Because it can be drawn as one unbroken line, it is also seen as a sign of eternity.
What is a trinity knot?
The trinity knot is a triangular figure formed by three interlaced arcs. Its formal name, triquetra, comes from the Latin triquetrus, meaning “three-cornered”. In Irish and Celtic art the arcs weave over and under each other, so the design reads as the simplest possible knot. In jewellery it is often called the Irish trinity knot or the Celtic trinity knot.
Where does the trinity knot come from?
Three-arc designs are very old. Similar shapes appear on decorated pottery from Anatolia and Persia from around the 4th century BC. The interlaced form we think of as Celtic became common in Insular art, the art of early medieval Ireland and Britain, from about the 7th century. It appears in metalwork, on carved high crosses and in illuminated manuscripts such as the Book of Kells. Versions of it also appear in Scandinavia, on rune stones and on an 11th-century Norwegian coin.
What does the trinity knot mean?
The Holy Trinity
The best-known reading is Christian: the three arcs stand for the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, united in one shape. This interpretation became popular during the Celtic Revival of the 19th century. The original meaning the early medieval artists gave it is not known, which is why other readings exist side by side.
Eternity and unity
The knot has no beginning and no end. For many people this makes it a symbol of everlasting love, friendship or family ties, which is why it is a popular choice for wedding bands and anniversary gifts.
Groups of three
Modern interpretations link the three points to many triads: past, present and future; mind, body and spirit; or, in Celtic Reconstructionist belief, land, sea and sky. These readings are modern, but they explain why the symbol speaks to so many people.
Trinity knot and claddagh
The trinity knot and the claddagh are often combined in Irish jewellery, with the knot worked into the band of a claddagh ring. Together they bring two promises into one piece: the claddagh’s friendship, love and loyalty, and the trinity knot’s unbroken bond. Read more about the meaning of the claddagh.
Trinity knot meaning: FAQs
Is the trinity knot a religious symbol?
It can be. Many Christians wear it as a symbol of the Holy Trinity, but it is also worn simply as an Irish or Celtic design, or as a symbol of lasting love.
Is the trinity knot pagan?
The design is older than Christianity in Ireland, and some modern pagan traditions use it today. There is no evidence of what it meant to the earliest Celtic artists who drew it.
What is a trinity knot gift for?
It suits weddings, anniversaries and family occasions, and any gift meant to say “always”.
Discover Celtic designs in our Celtic cross necklaces and claddagh necklaces.