The Star of David is a Jewish symbol composed of two overlaid equilateral triangles that form a six-pointed star or hexagram: ✡. Its Hebrew name is Magen David, meaning “Shield of David.” It was not a commonly used symbol in Judaism in antiquity, and its first reference as “Shield of David” appeared in a work of Kabbala about 1300. It gradually grew in prominence in Jewish circles in Europe in Kabbala practice and as an emblem of Jewish communities, beginning in Prague. By the 19th century it had become a widespread symbol of Judaism and, since 1948, it appears on the flag of Israel.
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