Moshav Nov's Aron Kodesh: Inspired by the Golan
As part of my mission to provide you with the latest updates in the world of synagogue design, I am pleased to present you with the following photo essay by renowned Aron Kodesh designer Jeremy Kimchi:
“As background information for designing the Golan Renaissance Torah ark, or Aron Kodesh, in Moshav Nov, I received a guided tour of the nearby ancient synagogue Umm el Kanatir, now undergoing reconstruction in a state of the art, computer chip documented process. The unearthed remains reveal several unusual and intriguing examples of stone carving, among which both the menorah and the grape vine can be seen around the raised dais of the ancient Aron Kodesh.
My goal in designing synagogue furniture is to touch the congregants deeply and enrich their synagogue experience. Noting the sense of connection that the modern residents of Nov feel towards the ancient synagogue, I decided to incorporate modern interpretations of some of its symbols in the design for the new Aron kodesh. For instance, at the top I placed a wooden representation of the stone menorah with its tripartite support.
I also wanted to celebrate the ancient Golan tradition of wine culture, as represented in the carved stone grape vines of the ancient Umm el Kanatir synagogue, and continuing with today’s internationally acclaimed Golan vineyards. Aside from its refined taste, wine plays a central role in many Jewish rituals and holidays. I chose to hand-carve my own version of grape vines on the fixed panels on either side of the ark.
I included another element in the Nov Aron Kodesh to resonate with the ancient synagogues of the Golan. A hallmark of these ancient structures was the massive stone beam spanning the entrance to the sanctuary.
As seen in the above photo, the cross beam is bisected by an organic form upon which the menorah rests. This form represents a cornucopia, signifying the fertility of the land. The cross beam is deeply grooved, representing the many deeply cut ravines in the Golan’s plateau. Finally, the cross beam fanning out from the center alludes to the cherubs’ wings spread over the ark of the covenant, as described in the Torah.
I hope I’ve been able to show in this essay how as an artist I strive to touch people on the emotional level. In the case of Nov Aron Kodesh, it was also an opportunity to revive ancient Jewish themes.”
(Republished with permission from Jeremy Kimchi.)
