Symbols
Judaism uses symbols to express and remind the ideas and ideals for its followers. Some Examples are:
Star of David
The Star of David
The Magen David (Shield of David, or as it is more commonly known as the Star of David) is the symbol most commonly associated with Judaism today, but it is actually a relatively new Jewish symbol. It is supposed to represent the shape of King David's shield or the emblem on it, but there is really no support for that claim in any early rabbinic literature. The symbol is not mentioned in rabbinic literature until the middle ages, and is so rare in early Jewish literature and artwork that art dealers suspect forgery if they find the symbol in early Jewish works.
The symbol has many different meanings depending on who you talk to. For many it is a protecting symbol as David used it on the battle field to keep him safe. However some people believe that the two triangles represent the good and the evil in humanity and that the star could protect them from evil spirits. Others believe that the triangles point to God and earth, while other believe that the 12 sides on the star represent the the Twelve Tribes.
The Magen David (Shield of David, or as it is more commonly known as the Star of David) is the symbol most commonly associated with Judaism today, but it is actually a relatively new Jewish symbol. It is supposed to represent the shape of King David's shield or the emblem on it, but there is really no support for that claim in any early rabbinic literature. The symbol is not mentioned in rabbinic literature until the middle ages, and is so rare in early Jewish literature and artwork that art dealers suspect forgery if they find the symbol in early Jewish works.
The symbol has many different meanings depending on who you talk to. For many it is a protecting symbol as David used it on the battle field to keep him safe. However some people believe that the two triangles represent the good and the evil in humanity and that the star could protect them from evil spirits. Others believe that the triangles point to God and earth, while other believe that the 12 sides on the star represent the the Twelve Tribes.
The Yarmulke (Kippah)
Yarmulke (Kippah)
This is one of the most know Jewish symbols. The word Yarmulke is also know as the Yiddish. The word Yiddish comes from the Tartar word meaning skullcap. Even though it is one of the more know symbols of judaism it has very little religious meaning.
The Yiddish was originally used in prayer by the older Jews, and was a custom to wear the skullcap around with you. The reason for the use of the skull cap is to show respect for God, just as people would take off their hat for people that they meet, in western societies. In ancient times servants had to wear caps to show that they were a servants, thus, the Jews wear the skullcap to show that they are servants to God. In mediaeval times the skullcap was used to remind them that God was always above them.
The Kippah is not a command but a custom. Although it is practice to wear the Kipper at all times it is to a religious mandatory. Jews can take off the skullcap for work, or if they thing they will get more out of a situation from not wearing the skullcap.
This is one of the most know Jewish symbols. The word Yarmulke is also know as the Yiddish. The word Yiddish comes from the Tartar word meaning skullcap. Even though it is one of the more know symbols of judaism it has very little religious meaning.
The Yiddish was originally used in prayer by the older Jews, and was a custom to wear the skullcap around with you. The reason for the use of the skull cap is to show respect for God, just as people would take off their hat for people that they meet, in western societies. In ancient times servants had to wear caps to show that they were a servants, thus, the Jews wear the skullcap to show that they are servants to God. In mediaeval times the skullcap was used to remind them that God was always above them.
The Kippah is not a command but a custom. Although it is practice to wear the Kipper at all times it is to a religious mandatory. Jews can take off the skullcap for work, or if they thing they will get more out of a situation from not wearing the skullcap.
Mezuzah
On the doorposts of traditional Jewish homes, you will find a small case like the one pictured at left. This case is commonly known as a mezuzah, because it is placed upon the doorposts of the house. The mezuzah is not, as some suppose, a good-luck charm, nor does it have any connection with the lamb's blood placed on the doorposts in Egypt. Rather, it is a constant reminder of God's presence and God's mitzvoth.
The commandment to place mezuzot on the doorposts of our houses is derived from Deut. 6:4-9. In that passage, God commands us to keep His words constantly in our minds and in our hearts by writing them on the doorposts of our house. The words of the Shema are written on a tiny scroll of parchment, along with the words of a companion passage, Deut. 11:13-21. On the back of the scroll. The scroll is then rolled up and placed in the case, so that the first letter of the Name is visible. Or more commonly, the letter Shin is written on the outside of the case.
The commandment to place mezuzot on the doorposts of our houses is derived from Deut. 6:4-9. In that passage, God commands us to keep His words constantly in our minds and in our hearts by writing them on the doorposts of our house. The words of the Shema are written on a tiny scroll of parchment, along with the words of a companion passage, Deut. 11:13-21. On the back of the scroll. The scroll is then rolled up and placed in the case, so that the first letter of the Name is visible. Or more commonly, the letter Shin is written on the outside of the case.
Menorah
One of the oldest symbols of the Jewish faith is the menorah, a seven-branched candelabrum used in the Temple. The Kohanim lit the menorah in the Sanctuary every evening and cleaned it out every morning, replacing the wicks and putting fresh olive oil into the cups. The illustration at left is based on instructions for construction of the menorah found in Ex. 25:31-40. The Menorah is used to symbolise the 7 days of creation.
It has been said that the menorah is a symbol of the nations of Israel and our mission to be "a light unto the nations." The sages emphasize that light is not a violent force; Israel is to accomplish its mission by setting an example, not by using force. This idea is highlighted in the vision in Zechariah 4:1-6. "Not by might, nor by power, but by My spirit."
It has been said that the menorah is a symbol of the nations of Israel and our mission to be "a light unto the nations." The sages emphasize that light is not a violent force; Israel is to accomplish its mission by setting an example, not by using force. This idea is highlighted in the vision in Zechariah 4:1-6. "Not by might, nor by power, but by My spirit."