The Jordanian Ensign: A Tapestry of History, Culture, and National Identity

The flag of Jordan, a proud symbol of the Hashemite Kingdom, stands as a testament to the country's rich history, cultural heritage, and unwavering national identity. With its vibrant colors and intricate design, the Jordanian flag embodies the spirit of this vibrant nation and its people.

Historical Roots and Evolution

The Jordanian flag has undergone several iterations throughout its history, reflecting the changing political and social landscape of the region. Its origins can be traced back to the Great Arab Revolt of 1916, when Arab forces under the leadership of Sharif Hussein ibn Ali rose up against Ottoman rule.

The revolt's banner, known as the flag of the Arab Revolt, featured three horizontal stripes of black, green, and white, representing the three major dynasties that had ruled the Arab world: the Abbasids, the Fatimids, and the Umayyads. On the left side of the flag was a red triangle, symbolizing the Hashemite Royal Family.

In 1921, when the Emirate of Transjordan was established under British mandate, the flag of the Arab Revolt was adopted as the official flag of the new state. However, a white seven-pointed star was added to the center of the red triangle, representing the seven holy verses of the Qur'an.

The flag underwent a minor modification in 1946, when the Emirate of Transjordan gained independence and became the Kingdom of Jordan. The white seven-pointed star was replaced with a gold seven-pointed star, symbolizing the unity and prosperity of the kingdom.

Symbolism and Significance

The Jordanian flag is a powerful symbol of national identity and pride. Its colors and design carry deep meaning and significance, reflecting the country's historical, cultural, and religious heritage.

Black: Represents the Abbasid dynasty, the first Islamic dynasty to rule over the Arab world.

Green: Represents the Fatimid dynasty, a Shiite dynasty that ruled over Egypt and North Africa.

White: Represents the Umayyad dynasty, the first Sunni dynasty to rule over the Arab world.

Red Triangle: Represents the Hashemite Royal Family, who have ruled Jordan since its independence.

Gold Star: Represents the unity and prosperity of the Kingdom of Jordan.

Construction and Specifications

The Jordanian flag is constructed according to strict specifications laid out by law. It is a rectangular flag with a width-to-length ratio of 1:2. The flag's colors are arranged in three horizontal stripes of black, green, and white, with a red triangle on the left side. The gold seven-pointed star is placed in the center of the red triangle.

The dimensions of the flag vary depending on its intended use. The official state flag measures 100 x 200 centimeters, while the civil and mercantile flags measure 60 x 120 centimeters.

Usage and Display

The Jordanian flag is flown on all official government buildings, including schools, hospitals, and embassies. It is also flown on military installations, ships, and aircraft. Private citizens are encouraged to display the flag on their homes and businesses on national holidays and other special occasions.

When the Jordanian flag is flown alongside other flags, it should be placed in the most prominent position. If displayed vertically, the flag should be hung with the red triangle facing right.

Respect and Protocol

The Jordanian flag is a symbol of national pride and should be treated with the utmost respect. It should never be defaced, dragged on the ground, or used for commercial purposes. When the flag is worn out, it should be disposed of properly by burning or burying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are several common mistakes that should be avoided when handling the Jordanian flag:

• Displaying the flag upside down or backwards
• Flying the flag in bad weather conditions
• Using the flag for advertising or promotional purposes
• Defacing or damaging the flag in any way

Facts and Figures

• The Jordanian flag was adopted on April 16, 1928.
• The flag's official dimensions are 100 x 200 centimeters for the state flag and 60 x 120 centimeters for the civil and mercantile flags.
• The red triangle on the left side of the flag represents 2% of the total surface area.
• The gold star in the center of the red triangle has seven points, representing the seven holy verses of the Qur'an.
• The Jordanian flag is one of the oldest flags in the Arab world.

Tables

Table 1: Historical Evolution of the Jordanian Flag

Table 2: Dimensions of the Jordanian Flag

Table 3: Color Representation of the Jordanian Flag

FAQs

• What is the official size of the Jordanian flag?
  • The official state flag measures 100 x 200 centimeters, while the civil and mercantile flags measure 60 x 120 centimeters.
• When was the Jordanian flag adopted?
  • The Jordanian flag was adopted on April 16, 1928.
• What do the colors of the Jordanian flag represent?
  • Black: Abbasid dynasty
  • Green: Fatimid dynasty
  • White: Umayyad dynasty
  • Red triangle: Hashemite Royal Family
  • Gold star: Unity and prosperity of the Kingdom of Jordan
• What is the significance of the seven-pointed star on the Jordanian flag?
  • The seven-pointed star represents the seven holy verses of the Qur'an.
• How should the Jordanian flag be displayed?
  • The Jordanian flag should be flown on all official government buildings, military installations, ships, and aircraft. Private citizens are encouraged to display the flag on their homes and businesses on national holidays and other special occasions.
• What is the penalty for defacing the Jordanian flag?
  • Defacing the Jordanian flag is a crime and can result in fines or imprisonment.

Call to Action

The Jordanian flag is a symbol of national pride and unity. It is important for all citizens to respect and honor the flag, and to display it properly on appropriate occasions. By doing so, we can show our love and support for our country and its people.