Twelve Stones, One Blessing

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In this painting, I brought together two deeply symbolic and sacred elements of Jewish tradition—the Berkat Kohanim (Priestly Blessing) and the Choshen (the breastplate worn by the Kohen Gadol). The Berkat Kohanim is painted in the colors and shape of the Choshen, which was adorned with twelve sacred stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. These stones, placed in the breastplate of the Kohen Gadol, were inscribed with the names of the tribes, and it is said that miracles occurred through the Choshen, particularly when the Kohen Gadol wore it in the Holy Temple.

While the names of the twelve tribes are absent in this painting, I’ve replaced them with the Berkat Kohanim, the words of blessing and protection given by the priests. The vibrant colors of the twelve stones are reflected in the richness of the painting, where each color represents a different aspect of spiritual significance and connection. The Choshen itself was a powerful symbol of unity and divine guidance for the Jewish people. In this painting, the blessing itself takes on this sacred role, providing an aura of divine light and protection.

Through this painting, I aim to connect the ancient power and significance of the Choshen to the timeless and universal message of the Berkat Kohanim. Just as the Kohen Gadol wore the breastplate to bless and guide the Jewish people, this painting seeks to encapsulate that same power of blessing, bringing together the spiritual and the physical realms. The Choshen and the Berkat Kohanim are both emblems of Jewish faith, strength, and connection to Hashem, and through this piece, I have woven them together in a modern expression of Jewish tradition.