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Notable Sources
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A Lily Among Thorns
TANAKH
The speaker in the Song of Songs identifies themselves as a beautiful and cherished flower. The Song of Songs, a poetic dialogue between two lovers, is traditionally understood as a metaphor for the loving relationship between God and the people of Israel.
The Beauty of Lilies
COMMENTARY
The speaker in Song of Songs compares themselves to a daffodil of the Sharon and a lily of the valleys, highlighting their beauty and elegance. Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz's commentary on Song of Songs offers deep insights into its poetic and allegorical meanings, making the text accessible and engaging.
Shepherd Among the Roses
KABBALAH
In the Zohar, lilies symbolize profound spiritual truths. Just as a lily remains pure despite being surrounded by thorns, the Holy One, Blessed be He, guides His world from justice to mercy, transforming scarlet into white as snow, signifying the purification of sins.
The Lily and the Divine Presence
COMMENTARY
The lily symbolizes the shekhinah, the divine presence, with its six leaves representing the six boundaries of the shekhinah. Ezra ben Shlomo of Gerona, a 13th-century Kabbalist, offers a mystical interpretation of the Song of Songs, focusing on the divine presence.
Lily Capitals in Solomon's Temple
TANAKH
The intricate lily design on the capitals of the columns in Solomon's Temple is a testament to the architectural and symbolic sophistication of ancient Israel. The book of Kings I describes the detailed architectural elements of Solomon's Temple, including the lily-adorned capitals that stood 4 cubits high.
The Lilies of Solomon's Temple
COMMENTARY
The intricate design of the columns in Solomon's Temple, particularly their lily-shaped tops, is rich in architectural and symbolic significance. Rashi, the renowned 11th-century French biblical commentator, offers detailed insights into the dimensions and design of these columns, noting why they are not mentioned in the description found in Divrei Hayomim.
Among the Thorns
MIDRASH
Rebecca's righteousness and purity shine through despite being surrounded by deceitful people, likening her to a 'lily among the thorns.' The midrashic commentary Shir HaShirim Rabbah offers allegorical interpretations of the Song of Songs, connecting its verses to various figures and events in Jewish history.
Rejuvenation and Strength
COMMENTARY
The blossoming lily represents the rejuvenation and deep-rooted strength of Israel. Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz’s commentary on the verse from Hosea, read on Shabbat Shuvah, emphasizes themes of repentance and renewal.
The Adorned Menorah
TARGUM
The intricate design of the Menorah, with its branches adorned with calyxes, apples, and lilies, is a fascinating aspect of Jewish symbolism. The Targum Pseudo-Jonathan, an Aramaic translation and interpretation of the Hebrew Bible, provides a detailed description of the Menorah's design.
Solomon's Temple Symbolism
COMMENTARY
The architectural and decorative use of lilies in Solomon's Temple highlights their significance in Jewish history and religious practice. Rashi, the renowned medieval French rabbi, provides detailed commentary on the placement of lilies on the chapiters of the pillars in the Temple's vestibule, as described in I Kings 7:19.
Water Lilies, Helena de Kay, 1870–77
Water Lilies, Helena de Kay, 1870–77
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