Star of David

views updated May 29 2018

Star of David (Shield of David) Six-pointed device formed by opposing two equilateral triangles. Known in Hebrew as Magen David or Mogen David, it was used as an emblem or magic sign by pagans, Christians, Muslims, and gradually found its way into Judaism as a cabbalistic sign. It appears on the flag of the modern state of Israel.

World Encyclopedia

Star of David

views updated Jun 27 2018

Star of Da·vid • n. a six-pointed figure consisting of two interlaced equilateral triangles, used as a Jewish and Israeli symbol.Also called Magen David.

Star of David

The Oxford Pocket Dictionary of Current English

Star of David

views updated May 14 2018

STAR OF DAVID

Hexagram formed by two equilateral triangles opposed at their base and interlaced, figuring in blue on white background on the Israeli flag. This six-pointed star surfaced for the first time in a Kabbalistic text. In the sixteenth century, under the name "seal of Solomon," it became the symbol of Judaism. It is called in Hebrew Magen David, or "David's shield."

Dictionary of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict