Odeh LaEl (Simu Lev El Haneshama), a 16th century North African piyut (liturgical poem), reminds us that every morning offers a new chance to examine our souls and rediscover the goodness and jewels within that might have become hidden during the long night. As we learned the beautiful melody to those words at services one Shabbat morning, I wondered how the poet imagined those amethysts and opals on God's throne. Perhaps, like people made in God's image, they were also a bit rough and unfinished on the edges, clinging to one another as each reflected the light from above that illuminated their search. Text: Odeh LaEl (Simu Lev El Haneshama), verses 1-4 Translation:Pay heed, pay heed to your own soul:Opal, amethyst and gold,As bright as is the sun's warm glow,Far brighter than the morning!I thank God who probes all heartsWhen stars sing in the morning.In this wilderness she roams,A gemstone hewn from God's throne,To redeem us from wrath's flameAnd light our way before morning.Awake! Awake! For every nightYour soul ascends to a place on highAnd there count for her deeds that dayTo the maker of night and morning.(The version with the English translation includes a short part of this text.) Listen to a beautiful rendition of the the piyut as sung by Rakefet Amsalem.This print is available in different sizes, in a white mat, and with or without an English translation. Please make your selections from the dropdown menus above to see the price for each option.
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