Star of David Tattoo: The Meaning of an Ancient Jewish Symbol


Today we will talk about a sign that symbolizes the interaction of human nature with the divine. The meaning of the Star of David tattoo is often equated to the eastern yin and yang, which is the unification of energies of opposite strength to create harmony. However, in fact, there are many more interpretations of the symbol. For some, it is a protective amulet, for others it is the personification of the cardinal directions and elements. But most often, this mystical, intriguing symbol is associated with Judaism.

A person with such a pattern will always be under the protection of the Lord, but this does not mean permissiveness. On the contrary, this image imposes many obligations, because from now on, the bearer is always in sight, and for all bad deeds you will have to answer, sometimes even more severely than before.

You shouldn’t take risks and choose this sketch if you have nothing to do with religion. At best, they simply won’t understand you. At worst, a chance encounter with neo-Nazis will be remembered for a long time. For them, you are a “kike”, which means a new target. Believe me, they are not at all interested in what the Star of David tattoo actually means. Even Jews avoid this image for tattoos because of its specific energy and the shadow of the past.

In some circles, the meaning of the Star of David tattoo has a negative connotation. There is an opinion that black magicians often use this symbol in their practices. However, this statement is not entirely true. One thing is for sure - such an image has great power, and if you use it wisely, nothing bad will happen.

Description of the Star of David


Six-pointed Star of David.
The symbol looks like a six-pointed star - a hexagram. The triangles in it are turned one downwards, and the other upside down. As a result, they form a figure with 6 equal corners attached to the sides of the hexagon.

Interpretation

There are the following interpretations of the meaning of the symbol:

  1. Two beginnings . It is assumed that the hexagram can inextricably unite masculine and feminine. A triangle that points downward resembles a figure with broad shoulders and a narrow pelvis. It is considered a symbol of masculinity. The second triangle, on the contrary, is associated with a female figure with narrow shoulders and wide hips. Another interpretation is the unification of the earthly and heavenly principles, which strive for each other.
  2. Four . In ancient times, it was believed that the star symbolizes the 4 primordial elements. According to one version, the triangle, which faces up, represents air and fire, and the figure facing down represents earth and water. An alternative interpretation is that the upper angles represent air, water and fire, and the lower angles represent peace, mercy and grace. Another interpretation is related to God and his ability to regulate everything that happens in the world.
  3. Six . Rabbi Eliyag Essas suggested that the star symbolizes the 6 days of creation and represents a model of the universe. Two triangles reflect 2 directions. The figure, which is directed upward, indicates the Creator and his unity. Side angles mean Good and Evil. The lower corner of the second triangle symbolizes man. The lateral ones are associated with the goals of people’s existence, the unification of the ideas of the “left” and “right” sides of the world.
  4. Seven . According to Kabbalah, the shield reflects the 7 lower sephiroth. Not only the corners are considered, but also the central part.
  5. Twelve . The figure has 12 ribs, which are associated with the 12 tribes of Israel. It is believed that during the wanderings the tents of the tribes of Israel were placed so that they formed a six-pointed star around the Tabernacle. For this reason, the sign is considered as a symbol of the unity of the Jewish people.

As an additional interpretation, the version of the philosopher Franz Rosenzweig is highlighted. He proposed to perceive the symbol as a sign of the relationship between God, the universe and man. In his writings, Franz called the figure the star of salvation.

Application method

Previously, tattoos were made in prisons using a needle and a substance containing soot. The pigment was obtained from burnt boot soles. Understanding what the stars on the shoulders of convicts mean, it should be noted that the technology of application, as well as the meaning of the design itself, has changed over time.

Later they began to use ink from ballpoint pens as paint. For the image itself, a special stamp was used. The needles were stuck into a thick piece of rubber so that they protruded by 1-2 mm. They were dipped in paint and pressed into the skin in one motion, leaving a certain pattern.

Subsequently, special electric razor machines began to be used. Instead of a needle, they used guitar strings.

History of the origin of the symbol

There are several legends about the origin of the Star of David.

Legends about King David

First of all, the symbol is associated with King David. It is assumed that he ruled in the X-XI centuries. BC e. In his youth, David was a shepherd. He proved himself to be a brave and reliable person: more than once he fought with large predators in order to protect the herd.

When the first king Saul was rejected by God for his rebellion, David was anointed by the prophet Samuel as the future king. It is believed that at this moment the Spirit of God descended on David.

David served for a long time at the court of King Saul. He calmed him down in moments of anger by playing the kinnor. When David came to the army to visit his brothers, he accepted the challenge of the giant Goliath and killed him with a sling.

David quickly gained fame among the Philistines and became friends with the king's son. This angered Saul. As a result, the king tried to kill David.

Subsequently, the latter had to run and hide in a shelter. Despite his long wanderings and the need to evade persecution, David did not kill Saul, although he was given such an opportunity twice.

When David was proclaimed king of the Jews, Judah separated from Israel. This was followed by a war that lasted 2 years. It ended with the victory of David.

It is believed that his troops used shields in the shape of a six-pointed star, thanks to which they were under God's protection.

Russian version

Some researchers adhere to the version about the Russian origin of the six-pointed star. Vyacheslav Meshcheryakov was most interested in this theory.

He was doing archeology and one day discovered a symbol that resembled the shield of David. It was made of silver and applied to stone. In new books on paganism, such a sign is called the Star of Veles.


Image of a star on the Basilica of Santa Croce and the Church of St. Mark.

Babylonian

In ancient Babylon, the hexagonal star was a symbol of the goddess Astarte or Ishtar. In the Bronze Age, local residents used such a seal during rituals. Signs were used by sorcerers and magicians. Stars of David are found at excavation sites of ancient temples.

Medieval sources

The symbol of a six-pointed star is mentioned in medieval chronicles. This symbol was given a negative meaning. It was used by sorcerers and witches when performing occult rituals.

For the uninitiated, contact with the seal caused a state of mild shock. Stars with 6 ends were left on witch bottles. By the 18th century The sign began to decorate the graves of wealthy people.

Christians, on the contrary, believed that the symbol was endowed with positive energy. Temples were decorated with a star. The mold was used to make amulets and amulets.

Meaning in different religions

The meaning of the symbol may vary depending on religion. However, scientists still have not come to a consensus. For example, scientist Oleg Molenko claims that the Shield of David is primarily a Christian symbol, but at the same time at the same time calls it a sign of the devil.

In Judaism

In Judaism, the sign is primarily identified with the 6 days of the creation of the world. In the center is the Sabbath, i.e. the last seventh day. The symbol means that people should work for 6 days, and then rest for the day.


Image on the frieze of the synagogue in Kfra Nahum (2nd - 3rd century)

In Hinduism

According to Hinduism, the sign is associated with struggle and contradiction. It symbolizes the attempts of opposites to destroy and absorb each other.

Often one triangle is associated with a person, and the second with his dark side, the sins that he commits throughout his life. According to another version, the star is associated with 4 fundamental elements and the Higher powers that guide them.

In Christianity

In Christianity, the symbol is identified with the Star of Bethlehem and is also associated with the 7 days of the creation of the world. The Shield of David is considered a sign of Jesus Christ himself, in which the divine and human principles are united.

Islam

The star is a fundamental symbol in Islam. It is associated with belief in God, angels, scriptures and prophets. The remaining 2 angles are associated with the onset of judgment day and the existence of heaven and hell, as well as with the belief in predetermined fate. Another interpretation of the star in Islam is the desire for God and earthly things at the same time.

Who is the tattoo suitable for?

Sketches with a Star of David tattoo should only be chosen by balanced and serious people. Usually it is inflicted by believers who, by this act, demonstrate their readiness to go through all the difficulties of religion.

This philosophical symbol is of great importance for proud and purposeful people who respect traditions and believe in victory over evil. Admirers of this tattoo are fair and objective towards others and extremely demanding of themselves.

Men who have put the Star of David on their body are able to take responsibility for their loved ones; they are distinguished by courage and nobility. However, you should be careful: such a tattoo on the wrist usually means a representative of a non-standard sexual orientation.

For a girl, a tattoo with the image of a Star of David is a sign of femininity and fidelity. This is, as a rule, a homemaker with refined manners and excellent taste. A photo of this tattoo on a woman’s body can be seen in the gallery after the article.

Six-pointed star in different cultures

Outside of a religious context, Muslims consider the star a powerful amulet. It promises prosperity and wealth, protects the wearer from misfortunes.

In Eastern cultures, the hexagram is considered a balance between the masculine and feminine principles. The sign is analogous to Yin and Yang.

The hexagon became the sign of the Freemasons. He is depicted in black and white. The triangle on top represents Alpha, on the bottom - Omega.


Freemason star.

Number of rays

Five-pointed star - the desire for harmony. The inverted pentagram is often used by Satanists.

The seven-pointed star has a magical meaning, like the number 7 itself. This magic will stay with a person for a long time, just like the tattoo itself.

The eight-pointed star represents life in abundance.

The nine-pointed star among the ancient Celts symbolized health and prosperity. This image carries a similar meaning today.

However, the criminal “star” tattoo on the shoulders has a special meaning. Its meaning is always changing. However, the basic message can still be understood.

The meaning of the symbol in magic

Back in the Middle Ages, magicians endowed the symbol with the ability to protect the owner. They applied them to amulets and talismans. Presumably, the signs were required to soften the return energy blow after the rituals.

Adherents of occult sciences are sure that the star is a collection of secrets of the Universe. The sign was applied to silver pendants and distributed to initiates.

The talisman had to be worn under clothes and not shown to anyone. It was forbidden to remove the star from the body. Occultists argued that with prolonged contact, this makes it possible to remove the veil of secrecy between the future, past and present.

Psychics believe that the symbol promotes the development of hidden talents. At the very least, the Shield of David imparts knowledge and wisdom to the wearer.

Some magicians suggest that wearing a star for a long time improves the gift of clairvoyance.

Hexagrams were used not only by sorcerers, but also by warriors. They took amulets with them to war, believing that the amulets would protect them from death or destruction.

Esotericists use the symbol as a kind of personal trainer. It is believed that the amulet helps to stay on the path of self-development and helps maintain discipline.


Shield of David is a talisman for sorcerers.

Use as an amulet: what it helps with and who to wear it

The interweaving of triangles primarily symbolizes peace of mind and harmony. The hexagram, when used as an amulet, will help pacify sinful impulses.

It will become easier for a person to control himself and manage his emotions. He will find solutions and compromises faster. Getting rid of complexes and internal conflicts will cause a craving for self-development.

The amulet is able to protect against foreign magical influences. It is used as a talisman against damage and love spells.

If you wear the talisman closer to your body, it will protect against diseases and improve your health.

An amulet placed at home will strengthen your financial situation and alleviate conflict situations between family members. The talisman protects against energy vampires and ill-wishers.


Amulets for protection against magic.

Tattoo element

The tattoo will have the same qualities as the amulet, but enhanced, since it is not close to the skin, but under it. The meaning of the image will depend on the surrounding details.

Together with the pentagram, the hexagram can emphasize the coexistence of good and evil, balance and harmony. With a cross, the hexagonal star will take on a religious meaning.

For the symbol to work correctly, you need to start drawing it from the top triangle, from the very top vertex. After him the lower figure is depicted.

Start from the lowest point. To activate the talisman, the wearer must touch the inner central part and mentally set a program for the star. This could be a desire to receive protection, a request for a dream to come true, etc.

Most often, black, white and gray pigments are used when applying a tattoo. However, occasionally you can find multi-colored images. They are dominated by red, blue and yellow tones.


Black and white Star of David tattoo.

Who is it suitable for?

The tattoo will suit the following people well:

  1. For those who constantly take risks . First of all, these are rescuers, police and military personnel. In the case of gambling, the amulet will work worse, since the star does not support sinful intentions.
  2. For travelers . The symbol will protect them from disasters and failures on the road. It will help you avoid evil people and will only introduce travelers to kind, sympathetic interlocutors. If problems arise, it will be easier for a person to find help.
  3. Sick . Under the influence of the hexagram, a person’s recovery accelerates. This effect is enhanced if the patient prays often. The amulet slows down the development of diseases and prevents complications from occurring.
  4. Beginner magicians . A tattoo will strengthen your intuition and allow you to listen to yourself. A psychic will be able to develop his abilities faster.
  5. For businessmen . The Star of David attracts good luck and helps to make profitable deals. The talisman protects against financial losses. It provides a stable financial flow.
  6. For those who are susceptible to depression . The amulet will help you always feel in good shape. A person will be able to avoid the state of emotional burnout and chronic fatigue.
  7. For those involved in art . For representatives of creative professions, a tattoo gives inspiration. The risk of stagnation will be reduced. New non-standard ideas will arise.
  8. To inventors . The amulet will make the wearer stronger and help you present your developments more confidently.

Which part of the body should I stuff it on?

The choice of body part does not matter, but traditionally they try to hide amulets under clothing, and talismans are exposed. If the hexagram has a protective function, it is better to print it on the chest or back.

It is advisable to mark a talisman that attracts good luck and financial well-being on the hand or the back of the neck. A compromise option is the forearm. Such a tattoo can be either hidden under clothing or displayed.


Star of David tattoo.

Performance technique

Sketches with the Star of David are usually not large in size and look quite laconic, without unnecessary details. You can take one of the following styles as a basis: minimalism, dotwork, engraving or classic.

Fans of body painting in this case prefer a monochrome image, although sometimes red or blue is added to the composition. The symbol in the style of realism looks stylish thanks to the detail and clear drawing (see photo). Most often, the Star of David is tattooed on the arm, shoulder, forearm, neck, shoulder blade, and less often on the leg. Photos of interesting works with this ancient sign can be seen in the gallery.

Interesting video

Modern times

Nowadays, hexagonal stars are often used on flags and coats of arms.

Examples of modern images

The most striking example of the image of the Shield of David is the flag of Israel. You can find the sign on US state symbols. The hexagon is present in the coats of arms of some cities.

For example, it acts as a symbol for Hamburg, Herbstedt, Poltava, Energodar, Ternopil, Konotop, Krasnodar, etc.

The sign is present in the coat of arms of Croatia and the flag of Burundi. In the latter case, 3 hexagonal stars are identified with the national motto: unity, work and progress. The symbol is the unofficial flag of Northern Ireland.

Rating
( 1 rating, average 5 out of 5 )
Did you like the article? Share with friends:
For any suggestions regarding the site: [email protected]
Для любых предложений по сайту: [email protected]