For Brides, Pilgrims, and a Certain Angel: The Wreath as a Jewish Decoration and Symbol
Shavuot / Symbols / Weddings

For Brides, Pilgrims, and a Certain Angel: The Wreath as a Jewish Decoration and Symbol

Wreaths are not a major motif in Judaism, but Jews used wreaths as holiday decorations and wedding accessories even in antiquity, when the Temple stood in Jerusalem. Although today wreaths are strongly associated with Christmas, Jews made wreaths for Shavuot and other festive occasions before the birth of Jesus. And as a symbol, the wreath … Continue reading

Embroidering Sacred Texts – A Book of Judaic Needlework Designs from Rachel Braun
Books / The Arts / Embroidery

Embroidering Sacred Texts – A Book of Judaic Needlework Designs from Rachel Braun

This month, when so many students are going back to school, seems like the perfect time to highlight Rachel Braun’s book, Embroidery and Sacred Text: New Designs in Judaic Needlework, in which Rachel draws on principles of mathematics to develop needlework designs that explore Jewish spirituality. Rachel teaches high school math and statistics, and she’s … Continue reading