7- Metal Relief ‘Revelation’
Originally installed as entry doors to building, 1986
Relocated as entry doors to sanctuary, 2004
Mounted in sanctuary, 2019
Designed and Built by Israeli Artist Perli Pelzig, z”l
Medium: Cast aluminum
Gift of Sheila and Merrill Wynne
These imposing doors mounted above the entry doors to the sanctuary depict the moment of revelation at Sinai when the people of Israel received the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20). The two engraved Hebrew words – Na’aseh v’nishmah – also found in Exodus (24:3 and 24:7) constitute the response given by the Israelites when they were presented with the commandments: “We will do and we will hear.” This dramatic scene in which the Torah is given serves as a timeless, spiritual complement to the ark and Torah scrolls at the front of the sanctuary.
Reflection from Rabbi Bradley G. Levenberg, PhD:
Leading services while facing the mounted doors never fails to ground me. The image of Moses receiving the Ten Commandments is more than just beautiful art—it’s a reminder that we’re part of something ancient and alive. Looking upon this striking relief, I feel connected to our people’s story and to the sacred work unfolding in the room. It’s as if the doors are a mirror, reflecting what happens when a community gathers with purpose: we listen, we wrestle, we seek meaning together. And sometimes, sometimes, we even glimpse something divine.
