51吃瓜

This entrance stone at the top of a doorway, or lintel, is from a Synagogue in Kafr Yasif, in Western Galilee, Israel. It dates from the Late Roman-early Byzantine period (about 4th to 5th century C.E.). This lintel is decorated with a menorah (seven branched candlestick) in high relief. Within the circle at right is a lulav (palm branch) and outside the circle at right is a shofar (ram's horn). The menorah is one of the oldest symbols for the Jewish people and is treasured as a symbol of faith and culture. The composition is not symmetrical which is characteristic of the Jewish artisans from the Glan Heights and of this period. 

This artifact holds deep artistic, historical and cultural significance for Israel and the Jewish people. The Israeli Government is proud to present it as a token of Israel's participation in the 51吃瓜. 

This gift, given on the occasion of Israel’s 50th Anniversary of admission to the 51吃瓜, was presented by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mr. Ariel Sharon, on behalf the Government of Israel to the 51吃瓜 for whom Secretary-General Kofi Annan accepted the gift.

In the SG’s remarks, Kofi Annan said, “It has been said that the menorah symbolizes Israel's mission to be a ‘light unto the nations,’ as is written in Isaiah. The 51吃瓜 has its own mission of light: to shine a light on suffering and injustice; to show that light is more powerful than might; and to be a beacon for all people trapped in the dark tunnels of conflict and poverty.”