Signs, Symbols & Sacred Objects
Jewish symbolism encompasses ancient biblical signs, kabbalistic diagrams, ritual objects, and iconic markers of identity. From the six-pointed Star of David to the mysterious Hebrew letters, these symbols carry deep spiritual meaning.
🔯 Primary Symbols
✡️ Star of David (Magen David)
The six-pointed star, iconic symbol of Judaism and the State of Israel.
Meaning: Shield of David, divine protection
Kabbalistic: Union of heaven (△) and earth (▽)
Modern: Jewish identity, Israeli flag
🕎 Menorah
The seven-branched candelabrum from the ancient Temple, symbol of divine light and Israel.
Biblical: Designed by God for the Tabernacle
Symbolism: Seven days of creation, divine wisdom
National: Emblem of State of Israel
🕎 Hanukkah Menorah (Hanukkiyah)
Nine-branched menorah for Hanukkah, eight lights plus shamash (helper candle).
Purpose: Commemorate Temple rededication miracle
Ritual: Light one additional candle each night
🖐️ Hamsa (Hand of Miriam)
Protective amulet shaped like an open hand, warding off the evil eye.
Name: Hand of Miriam (Moses' sister)
Purpose: Protection, blessing, good fortune
Design: Often features eye or divine names
🫓 Chai (Life)
The Hebrew letters chet (ח) and yod (י) spelling "chai" (life), representing vitality and Jewish survival.
Numerical Value: 18 (chet=8, yod=10)
Usage: Jewelry, donations in multiples of 18
🌳 Tree of Life (Etz Chaim)
Kabbalistic diagram of ten Sefirot showing divine emanations and spiritual pathways.
Structure: Ten spheres, 22 paths, three pillars
Explore the Tree of Life →
🔤 Hebrew Letters
Aleph (א)
First letter, silent, represents divine unity and transcendence. Numerical value: 1.
Symbolism: Divine oneness, beginning of all
Bet (ב)
Second letter, first letter of Torah (Bereishit). Numerical value: 2.
Symbolism: Duality, creation, house (bayit)
Shin (ש)
21st letter, found on mezuzot and tefillin. Numerical value: 300.
Symbolism: Shaddai (Almighty), fire, divine presence
The 22 Letters
All Hebrew letters are sacred, used by God to create the world. Each has numerical value, shape symbolism, and mystical meaning.
📿 Ritual Objects
Tefillin (Phylacteries)
Leather boxes containing Torah verses, bound on arm and head during weekday morning prayers.
Symbolism: Binding to God, dedication of mind and heart
Tzitzit (Fringes)
Knotted fringes on four-cornered garments, reminding of commandments.
Symbolism: 613 commandments (numerical equivalence)
Tallit (Prayer Shawl)
Four-cornered garment with tzitzit worn during prayer, symbolizing being wrapped in divine commandments.
Stripes: Often blue or black, recalling ancient techelet
Mezuzah
Parchment scroll in decorative case affixed to doorposts, containing Shema prayer.
Symbolism: Divine protection, Jewish home identity
Torah Scroll (Sefer Torah)
Hand-written parchment scroll of the Five Books of Moses, the holiest physical object in Judaism.
Creation: Written by trained scribe (sofer)
Reverence: Kissed, never touched with bare hands
Kiddush Cup
Special cup for blessing wine on Shabbat and holidays.
Symbolism: Sanctification, joy, blessing
Shofar (Ram's Horn)
Ancient trumpet blown on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, calling to repentance.
Biblical: Recalls Isaac's binding, Sinai revelation
Sounds: Tekiah, Shevarim, Teruah
Etrog & Lulav (Four Species)
Citron, palm, myrtle, and willow used during Sukkot, representing unity of Jewish people.
Symbolism: Different types of Jews united in service
🔮 Mystical Symbols
The 72 Names of God
Mystical three-letter combinations from Exodus 14:19-21, used for meditation and spiritual work.
Divine Name Permutations
Various arrangements and combinations of YHWH and other divine names used in meditation.
Related Across the Mythos
Christian Symbols
Cross, Chi-Rho