celebrating israel & the jewish world

THE FLAG OF ISRAEL

STAR OF DAVID

The Star Of David or Magen David as it is also known has been used to represent Judaism faith since as far back as the 3rd century (biblical times) and was also used as the symbol representing Zionism since the very first congress that took place in 1897 in Geneva Switzerland. Its significance and name win direct connection to King David himself. This striking blue hexagram is one of the key symbols of the Jewish faith. The flag itself is known as the flag of Zion and was adopted as the flag of Israel on 28th October 1948.

TALLIT

The stripes of the flag are based on the Tallit,this is the Jewish prayer shawl worn by males. It is a striped shawl, rectangular in shape and has black or blue stripes with fringes. The Tallit or (Tallithim, Tallith) as it is also knowing worn in accordance with the service. It is commonly worn by men in the mornings for "Shaharit". During significant periods such as "Yom Kippur" The Tallith will be worn fir all five services. A Jewish man will often be buried wearing his Tallith.

BLUE & WHITE

As well as the significance of the blue stripes which relate to the Tallith, the Jewish prayer shawl, the blue also refers to the special dye used by the Israelites during the Iron Ages called "Tekhelet". The striking blue shade also represents God's divinity, purity, severity & glory whilst the white backdrop represents God's benevolence. The flag of Israel has always held a special place with Jews due to the significance and poignancy of the meaning behind the beautiful design.

emblems of the jewish state

COAT OF ARMS

HATIKVAH ANTHEM

The Israeli Coat of Arms features the Menorah, surrounded by olive branches. The menorah is a symbol of universal enlightenment, whilst the olive branches represent lasting peace. Below are the words ISRAEL in Hebrew. The emblem can appear in different colours depending on which national body is using it.

HATIKVAH ANTHEM

Originally penned as a poem in the late 1800's. Hatikvah means Hope. This moving melody is complimented by inspirational lyrics of of the hopes and dreams of the Jewish people over thousands of years to their right to freedom and self determination in the land of Israel.

THE OLIVE TREE

HATIKVAH ANTHEM

THE OLIVE TREE

The olive tree has an important role in the history of Judaism & is a major symbol of the many values in Jewish life both today and yesterday. From the roots of the olive tree firmly forming the foundations of the land, to the eternal symbol of peace. The Olive branch also appears on the national emblem.

CYCLAMEN FLOWER

THE OLIVE TREE

The Cyclamen is a beautiful flower that represents the nation of Israel perfectly. In Hebrew it is called 'Rakefet' also a popular girls name. The flower is synonymous with the region and has officially represented Israel since 2007.

CANAAN DOG

CYCLAMEN FLOWER

HOOPOE BIRD

The beautiful Canaan dog breed was declared the national dog of Israel over fifty years ago after having been unanimously selected. The dog has been synonymous within the region for thousands of years.

HOOPOE BIRD

CYCLAMEN FLOWER

HOOPOE BIRD

The Hoopoe bird is beautifully elegant with ornate markings and distinctive crown. The bird was adopted as the national bird of Israel following an overwhelming public consensus and declared by Shimon Peres.

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