Rabbi Aviner Acknowledges Sources Supporting the Star of David Symbol

Rabbi Shlomo Aviner, president of Ateret Yerushalayim Yeshiva, recently acknowledged the presentation of several traditional Jewish sources referencing the Star of David symbol. Previously, Rabbi Aviner had stated that the Star of David lacked any source in the Torah, Mishnah, Talmud, or Kabbalistic texts. However, this week, a questioner in the 'Olam Katan' publication cited various sacred texts that mention the term or shape of the Star of David.

The questioner referenced sources including commentaries on the "six points" such as Ramban's commentary on Song of Songs, Rabbi Moshe David Valle's "Likutim," and the Vilna Gaon's writings on Song of Songs. Additionally, the book "Maor VaShemesh" on Hoshana Rabbah was cited, which states "Your shield of help is the Shield of David," as well as Rabbi Yehonatan Eybeschitz's phrase, "A shield you need in your hand, this is the Shield of David."

In response to these citations, Rabbi Aviner briefly replied, "Yishar Koach" (well done), thereby acknowledging the validity of the sources presented. This exchange highlights a nuanced discussion regarding the historical and textual origins of the Star of David within Jewish tradition.