Urim & Tumim
Urim & Tumim 5, Acrylic on canvas, 20 x 16 inches
Urim & Tumim 7, Acrylic on canvas, 20 x 16 inches
Urim & Tumim - Yehudah 12, Acrylic on canvas,
Urim & Tumim - Ascher, Acrylic on canvas, 22 x 28 inches
Urim & Tumim - Joseph, Acrylic on canvas, 24 x 22 inches
Urim & Tumim - Gad 2, Acrylic on canvas,
Urim & Tumim - Gad 3, Acrylic on canvas, 20 x 22 inches
Urim & Tumim - Yehudah 2, Acrylic on canvas,
Urim & Tumim - Shimon 1, Oil on canvas, 24 x 24 inches
The Urim and Tumim were objects used in the ancient Middle East as tools for decision-making during times of war or crisis. Set with twelve gemstones they were consulted, with answers revealed through the stones’ appearance, possibly by glowing letters. The term “Urim and Tumim” translates to “Light and Truth,” and they were likely a small parchment placed within the breastplate.
Used to settle major disputes, like territorial boundaries, they could only be consulted by high-ranking figures for the public’s benefit.
These contemporary artworks, including six collaborative pieces with Katarzyna Kozera, highlight their historical role.. Other paintings depict the stones’ inner light and tribal names, often in ancient script.