The Burnt Book and the Tallis

by Esther Newman-Cohen

Title

The Burnt Book and the Tallis

Artist

Esther Newman-Cohen

Medium

Photograph - Unaltered Photograph

Description

This photograph was taken at the Old Cemetery of Safed, Israel, May 2014. I found the burnt book at the gravesite of Rabbi Isaac (ben Solomon) Luria Ashkenazi and placed it on top of my father's tallis (Jewish prayer shawl). My father, Rabbi Max Newman (1913-2000), may he rest in peace, was not a mystic but was a very religious and spiritual person.
Rabbi Isaac (ben Solomon) Luria Ashkenazi (1534 – July 25, 1572), commonly known as "Ha'ARI" (meaning "The Lion"), was a foremost rabbi and Jewish mystic in the community of Safed in the Galilee region of Ottoman Palestine. He is considered the father of contemporary Kabbalah, his teachings being referred to as Lurianic Kabbalah. While his direct literary contribution to the Kabbalistic school of Safed was extremely minute (he wrote only a few poems), his spiritual fame led to their veneration and the acceptance of his authority. He dwelt on the soul and the spirit, redemption and the strengthening of the soul. The works of his disciples compiled his oral teachings into writing. Luria died at Safed on July 25, 1572 (5 Av 5332). He was buried in the Old Cemetery of Safed. Those who visit his gravesite claim to experience a unique mystical feeling. His grave is always surrounded by people who touch the tomb, kiss it and light memorial candles.

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August 26th, 2014

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