״רחמנא״ — אוצרת: שקד אביב

 

The ability of humans to imagine themselves unchained is only an illusion. The soul is indeed free in essence, but as part of life in the material world it is imprisoned within one’s body, encompassed by an identity based upon one’s roots.

Of primary importance is one’s birthplace and residence with meaning that is rooted in one’s soul, which guide each individual throughout life. As a mother influences the development of her children, so to one’s surroundings influence thoughts and actions.

In many cultures planet earth is called "Mother Earth" - a phrase that teaches about the influence of the earth and surroundings on mankind. Kabbalah teaches us that this world and all that exists in it is called “The Lower Mother”, while the higher world of spiritual insights is called “The Upper Mother”.

The word Rachmana is a kind of "name of endearment" in the words of the Sages for the Holy One Blessed be He, and it expresses His leadership of the world with motherly mercy and love. It is not for nothing that the root of the word is "womb". The Creator created this world as a mother that gives birth, and continues to accompany her children throughout life. The world is a sort of "womb" of G-d, as Rashi interpreted the verse "Here is a place with me" - that G-d is the Place of the world and not the world its Place.

The exhibition "Rachmana (Mercifully)" seeks to reveal the effects our surroundings.

חני כהן זדה