What does the Star of David mean and why does it appear on the flag of the State of Israel?
The Star of David is inseparable with Judaism and Israel. The history of the symbol is recognized the world over and dates back millennia. Here’s its story.
Violence has erupted once again between Israel and Palestine after the terrorist group Hamas launched a surprise attack killing over a thousand people and injuring thousands more. Israel has vowed revenge and must weigh the fate of perhaps more than one hundred hostages taken into Gaza and the potential harm that will come to over 2 million civilians with the mission to invade and root out the perpetrators of the heinous crime.
Israelis reservists have been called up for the mission, including those who are living abroad, and the nation is rallying around its Blue and White flag with the Star of David at its center. However, many do not know the meaning of the symbol also know as the “Shield of David” or by Magen David, Romanized from Hebrew, one of the most important symbols in Judaism. It is made up of two overlapping triangles, forming a six-pointed star that symbolizes the power of God in the universe and its protection in all directions.
In this context, it is a religious and cultural symbol that has been associated with the Jewish people for centuries. This symbol in turn represents the union of opposites, such as heaven next to earth, as well as the connection between God and humanity. The choice of colors is not random, since the flag is a representation of the religious accessory called Tallit, which is traditionally white with blue stripes. Furthermore, this last color represents truth, loyalty, perseverance and justice.
Why on the Israeli flag?
According to the biblical texts, King David was a man placed by God on Earth, and his goal was to confront the giant Goliath to take the throne, become a warrior and conquer territories. He had a sacred shield with the star symbol, which was capable of protecting him from all types of spears and demons. That is why the name “Star of David” was coined.
This symbol was in common use during the occupation by the Romans in the current territory of Israel, although it was not attributed to Judaism until the 17th century, when it began to be drawn in the entrance of synagogues to identify the faith that was practiced by those inside. In this way, it was decided to be included in the Israeli flag when it was approved on October 28, 1948, five months after the establishment of the State of Israel.
Today, the Star of David has become a worldwide symbol of Zionism used in numerous cultural and religious contexts. It is a protective and decorative symbol, representing peace, balance and faith, associated with Judaism.