Thousands of years ago, King David (the one who beat the giant Goliath) reigned over the Kingdom Of Israel as a powerful warrior and leader. According to tradition, every time he would go to battle he carried a huge shield with a now famous symbol. This symbol a six-pointed star is known today as the “Shield of David” or perhaps more popularly the Star of David. Today, this symbol has become the most recognizable Jewish emblem adorning Synagogues, various Judaica and jewelry.
According to the Jewish mystical tradition of Kabbalah, the Star of David has multiple meanings. The star itself is comprised of King David’s name and he used it as his signature when signing important documents. In ancient Hebrew the letter “D” appeared as a triangle while the “V” has a numerical significance of the number six as in the six-pointed star. Another symbol of the six points is that the Creator rules and protects the entire world in all six directions which is why King David used this powerful symbol on his shield giving it its name. The triangles themselves represent the relationship between man and the Creator, symbolizing the give and take of goodness that humans are expected to give and the good we receive from above. 
In Hebrew the word “magen” also means to defend or protect and for the last five hundred years this symbol has been worn and used to protect places, people and holy objects. Traditionally, Stars of David have been given as Bar and Bat Mitzvah gifts. The Bar and Bat Mitzvah is one of the most significant times and is an important rite of passage marking the entrance into Jewish adulthood and the ability to uphold Jewish laws and be counted as an adult in the community. According to Jewish tradition children “protect” the faith.
In a famous quote from the Talmud, or Oral Torah, children are the builders and will bring peace to future generations. In Judaism, the concept of repairing the world is paramount and something every young person is taught. Part of becoming a B’nei Mitzvah includes involvement with charity and an overall lifelong commitment to helping people in need. The Star of David therefore is the perfect gift as it serves as a beautiful lifelong symbol to protect and defend justice.
