In this book, The Battle between The Menorah and The Magen David, Rabbi Dov Peretz Elkins examines the origin and background of these two symbols of Judaism – the Menorah and the Magen David. He also poses the question of which of these two symbols carries more weight in Jewish life – the Menorah or the Magen David?
In Part One, Elkins examines the Menorah’s connection to the ancient past of the Jewish people, beginning with God’s command in Exodus 25:31-40. The Menorah stood in the Tabernacle of Moses in the desert, as well as in both the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem.
In Part Two, Elkins examines the six-point star that was used by different cultures and how this star evolved into becoming known as “the Jewish Star” – the Magen David.
As part of Elkins’ presentation, he explains how these symbols found an honored place in modern times – one on the flag of the State of Israel, and one on the official emblem of Israel.