Star Cross

or Messianic Cross

The Star Cross is a hybrid and symbolises Christianity being central to Judaism. The symbol is used by Jewish Christians; a sect that retains its Jewish heritage yet believes in Salvation through Jesus, rather than through works.

Star Cross

The term 'Star Cross' could be applied to several designs and in heraldry a cross with pointed arms is called a Stellated Cross. Star crosses include the

On this page, we'll look at the Christian cross combined with the Jewish Star of David (Mogen Dovid).

The Star of David was considered to be a 'cross' in European heraldry. It is somtimes called a Jewish Cross but generally, this is a misnomer; 'emblem', 'medallion' or 'badge' is more accurate than 'cross'. Judaism denies that Jesus rose again as Christ, therefore the cross has no meaning for them. However, entering the Twilight Zone of logic, since Jesus was a Jew, then the cross used to crucify him could be referred to as a Jewish Cross. But we already have a name for that - the True Cross.

The Star of David comprises two triangles, representing the Greek letter for 'D' one upside down on the other, which happens to have been King David's royal cipher (since his name began and ended with a 'D'). The symbol represents the town of Bethlehem, first and foremost, the place of Christ's birth.

Like the Crescent Cross, the Star Cross is a hybrid and symbolises Christianity being central to Judaism. The symbol is used by Jewish Christians; a sect that retains its Jewish heritage yet believes in Salvation through Jesus, rather than through works. They join Protestant or Catholic churches.

People from another group are called Messianic Jews. These believe that Yeshua (Jesus) came as the Messiah, but they continue to worship in the synagogue.

There are many well-documented differences between Judaism and Christianity. However, the two religions also have significant similarities, such as ethical standards, sacred texts, and belief in the same God. It is not surprising therefore that some people decide to enjoy the best of both worlds.

In heraldry, a star-shaped cross is referred to as an Etoile Cross. This is usually a four-pointed star.

And if you fancy a puzzle, see if you can explain why the star is on this gravestone.

See also St. David's Cross and Ninja Cross