I would like to pose another question to any Jewish posters out there. Again, as I learn more about my Catholic faith I am feeling a greater and greater appreciation for Judaism, whom throughout most of human history has been the sole true faith, and who are still the chosen people of God. Though I do believe that Jesus Christ is the Messiah, I have a deep appreciation for this common heritage, which my faith is completely dependent upon. So much so that in addition to my Crucifix and saint medals I have been considering adding to them the Star of David. I’ve even found some that have the Star of David and the Cross combined together. My question though is would a Catholic wearing either of these necklaces be perceived by Jewish people to be inappropriate in any way, particularly since I myself am not of Jewish descent? Thanks so much.
Hi there,
The star commonly referred to as “the Jewish star” or “star of David” is not used by the most religious Jews, because it is really not a Jewish symbol. In fact because the secular zionists have adopted it for their national flag, the most orthodox refuse to even place the star in their synagogues.
But most people do not know any of this, and do associate that star with Judaism, so you would probably be OK using it. (The only truly authentic Jewish symbol is the 7 branched menorah as was in the Temple in Jerusalem.)
But I digress from your question!
Personally, as a Jew I’d see no harm in you doing that, except that some might misunderstand and think you are a Hebrew-Christian (commonly known today as “messianic jew”), and since they are Protestant in theology, you might not want to be associated with that, as a Catholic.
Having said that, many years ago there was (is?) a group called The Edith Stein Guild, which worked for better relations between Jews and Catholics (the members were all Catholics, btw).
They had a rather large necklace which they gave to life members, which was a cross with a Jewish star inside of it, with the words on the back, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” I knew a woman who owned one, but she is now deceased.
The necklace was made by the Terra Sancta Guild, in the Holy Land. Maybe you can Google them and see if they still sell it?
