Yad Vashem

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Memorial in Jerusalem, Israel to those who died in the Holocaust, or Shoah, under the German Nazi regime 1933–45, and to those who saved lives, whether they were Jews or Gentiles (non-Jews). Founded in 1953, its central feature is a museum that gives a chronological history of the Holocaust. The main building is a bare room with a candle burning, and the names of the concentration camps inscribed on the floor. The Hall of Names registers over 3 million Jewish victims. Outside, the Avenue of Gentiles is lined with 2,000 trees, each with a plaque naming a non-Jew who aided the Jews; over 15,000 more are listed in the Garden of the Righteous among Nations. Yad Vashem also houses the International School for Holocaust Studies.

Other features include an art museum, library, and an archive collection of documents, photographs, and films.

The name Yad Vashem is taken from Isaiah 56:5. Translated literally it means ‘hand and name’, but it signifies ‘memorial’. It refers to God's statement that he will take to his side anyone who keeps his commandments, whether Gentile or Jew.

The arms show a Bible open at the Gospel of St John, a Trinitarian symbol. The white cross symbolizes faith. The arms appear on national and state flags. Effective date: 14 September 1863. >>