When choosing the main elements for the main official symbol of the country, the Israelis relied on the centuries-old traditions of Christianity. Therefore, it becomes completely clear without long explanations why the coat of arms of Israel has the image of a menorah, the so-called seven-branched candlestick, known throughout the world.
Description of the coat of arms
The main symbol of the country has a restrained palette, only two colors are used - blue and white. The latter can be replaced with gold, as, for example, it can be seen on the passport of a resident of Israel. But on the presidential flag there is always only white. It is based on a French-type heraldic shield, that is, it is quadrangular, but has a pointed base.
The central place on the coat of arms of Israel is occupied by the image of a real seven-branched candlestick located in the Jerusalem temple. On both sides it is framed by branches of an olive tree, symbolizing peace in many countries of Southern Europe and Western Asia, the desire for a peaceful life, non-aggressiveness.
Winners are not judged
The coat of arms of Israel was adopted not so long ago. This important event for the state and its people took place in February 1949. A preliminary competition was announced to create the main symbol of the new country. The modern coat of arms is based on the project of the Shamirov brothers, Maxim and Gabriel, who came from Latvia.
The image was supplemented with details taken from other projects submitted for the competition. Therefore, the coat of arms of modern Israel is, rather, a product of the collective mind, the united dream of the new inhabitants of the new state.
Sacred lamp
The word "menorah" literally means a lampstand. The Menorah depicted on the coat of arms had a real prototype, a candlestick made of gold for seven candles. According to biblical stories, it was kept in the Tabernacle of the Meeting while the Jews wandered through the wilderness in search of the Promised Land.
Later, this sacred menorah was kept in the Second Jerusalem Temple as an important Jewish attribute of religion. The title of one of the most ancient symbols of Judaism and, in general, of the Jewish faith was assigned to it. Only the Star of David can be equivalent; today there are no more significant national and religious symbols.
Only virgin olive oil is suitable for lighting the menorah, since it is considered perfectly refined. In addition to the fact that the seven-branched candelabra is depicted on the emblem of Israel, it is a very popular souvenir that tourists take home (in coins, stamps, postcards).
