MAGEN DAVID

Magen David: translation

(Shield of David)

A Jewish symbol. It appears on theflagof the state of Israel, as it did on the flag of theZionistMovement. It consists of two superimposed triangles that form a six-pointed star. Although an ancient symbol, it became widely used in Europe for the Jewish communities in the 16th and 17th centuries. In 1897, the first Zionist Congress chose it as the symbol of the movement and of theWorld Zionist Organization. It was employed by the Nazis during theHolocaustas a means of identifying Jews. The

Flag and Emblem Law of Israel of 24 May 1949 incorporated the Magen David into the official flag of Israel.