Jewish SymbolsFrom Living Judaism

by Rabbi Wayne Dosick

Magen DavidO Star of DavidO Was on the shields of David’s

warriorsO Symbol on the Flag of the state of

IsraelO Used throughout the world as a clear

and unique identifying symbol of Jews and Judaism

Menorah

O Seven (or nine) branched candleholderO One of the oldest Jewish symbols—one of the

ritual objects described in the TorahO Today the nine branched menorah is used in

celebration of ChanukahO The seven branched menorah is the

authentic ancient symbol (one for each of the 6 days of creation and 1 for sabbath)

Chai O The Jewish symbol of lifeO Expresses the hope and prayer for

life, health and prosperityO Popular Jewish toast—L’chayim—To

Life

Mazal TovO Means good luck or congratulationsO Particularly used for significant life

events (ie. Bar Mitzvahs, weddings, birthdays, etc.)

AmenO Literally “So be it”O Means I agree/affirmO After a blessing it is customary for

those who have heard the blessing to say Amen

ShalomO Means hello/goodbye/peaceO Comes from root word shalem which

means whole/completeO Peace comes when there is

wholeness, completeness, unity.O Pease is the eternal Jewish prayer—

world peace, peace between people, inner peace, harmony.