<P> Many Modern Orthodox synagogues, and many synagogues of other Jewish movements, have the Israeli flag with the Star of David prominently displayed at the front of the synagogues near the Ark containing the Torah scrolls . </P> <P> Magen David Adom (MDA) ("Red Star of David" or, translated literally, "Red Shield of David") is Israel's only official emergency medical, disaster, ambulance service . </P> <P> It has been an official member of the International Committee of the Red Cross since June 2006 . According to the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Magen David Adom was boycotted by the International Committee of the Red Cross, which refused to grant the organization membership because "it was (...) argued that having an emblem used by only one country was contrary to the principles of universality ." Other commentators said the ICRC did not recognize the medical and humanitarian use of this Jewish symbol, a Red Shield, alongside the Christian cross and the Muslim crescent . </P> <P> Since 1948, the Star of David has carried the dual significance of representing both the state of Israel, and Jewish identity in general . In the United States especially, it continues to be used in the latter sense by a number of athletes . </P>

What is the origin of star of david