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The Origin of the Star of David as a Jewish Symbol

The Star of David, a striking six-pointed star, is synonymous with Jewish identity and culture. It appears in synagogues, on flags, jewelry, clothing, and in art. Not just a symbol of heritage, it represents resilience and unity. But what is the origin of the Star of David? This article explores the earliest evidence of the Star of David from the 1st century onward.

The Ancient Origin of the Star of David

We don’t precisely know when the Star of David became a Jewish symbol, but we do know that it goes back to ancient times. Tradition has it that the star was emblazoned on the shields of King David’s soldiers. Rabbi Akiva used the symbol as a banner for Bar Kochba during his revolt against the Romans. The Star of David appears in several ancient locations and texts starting from the 1st century.

leningrad codex, origin of the Star of David history
Page from the Leningrad Codex

The Star of David in the Leningrad Codex

The Star of David appears in the Leningrad Codex, the oldest known manuscript of the Tanakh consisting of the Torah, Nevi’im (the prophets), and the Ketuvim (the writings). Additionally, this ancient book offers a sample of Jewish art from the Middle Ages. Ornamental geometric designs highlighting textual passages appear on several pages.

Made in Cairo around the 1st century, it’s called the Leningrad Codex because in 1863 it was housed in the National Library of Russia, and remains there today.

Synagogue of Capernaum and the Star of David

The synagogue of Capernaum, built around the 4th-5th century, boasts the clearly recognizable star in it’s stone carvings.

Star of David , capernaum synagogue, origin of the Star of David
Star of David, Capernaum synagogue

Ancient Everyday Tools Using the Star of David

The Star of David also appeared as a motif on practical items such as this ancient clay stamp seal shown below.

ancient stamp seal with Star of David, origin of the Star of David history
Ancient Stamp Seal with the Star of David, Eastern Mediterranean, 6th-10th century

The Middle Ages and the Star of David

Furniture of the Old New Shul showing the Star of David, origin of the Star of David history
Furniture in the Old New Shul in Prague showing the Star of David. Image by Øyvind Holmstad

During the Middle Ages the Star of David appeared in Jewish art and synagogue architecture. The symbol was featured in decorative motifs on the walls, in stained glass windows, on furniture and ritual objects.

Conclusion

The origin of the Star of David begins from ancient times, first appearing on buildings and manuscripts. The Middle Ages saw a marked increase in the use of this iconic star as a symbol for Jewish identity. From the Middle Ages onward, the Star of David became more common as an insignia for anything Jewish. And the rest is history…

The 7 Fruits of Israel watercolor painting, buy on Saatchi
The 7 Fruits of Israel, watercolor painting, © Rhonda Roth, All Rights Reserved. Buy on Saatchi.

More on the Star of David – Judaica in Art: The Star of David in Modern Jewish Art


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