Hello Readers,
Heraldry is an Art form and a bit of a Science, as it includes a somewhat regimented language (or Jargon) all its own. It touches on subjects such as Pedigree (Genealogy), Etiquette, Protocol, Sigillography (Seals), Honors & Decorations, Calligraphy etc., some of which are still strictly considered scientific studies. Heraldry itself is sadly nowadays sometimes taken to be too archaic for functioning as a valid scientific study.
The definition of Heraldry, basically speaking, is; The use, study and research into a system of hereditary insignia centered around a Shield, and which follows rules set up for visibility, conformity of language and against infringement of insignia. More Broadly, the term includes the position and various duties of Heralds (a form of diplomats) and their counterparts, who were responsible for regulation of Heraldry, when and where this was in fact legally regulated. Even where not, heralds often existed in a private function and were those who simply designed & recorded armorial insignia.
Jewish heraldry is even less studied or known about than the standard European (Christian) heraldry, indeed many will wonder whether it exists at all. But the fact remains there is evidence that Heraldry was used by the Jews of Europe about the same time that their Christian neighbors began its use. And in fact, Seals and devices of a very similar logic to that of European heraldry were being used by Jews, all over the Diaspora and in the Holy land, prior to the current estimate of the birth of Heraldry (in the 12th century). More on that in future posts…
Thanks for reading,
Isaac
THE HEBREW HERALD 