Ner Tamid Mezuzah
Across
the heavens are the sun, moon and stars of the universe, held aloft by a
rainbow arc, a powerful symbol for the covenant which spreads a canopy of peace
over the earthly world below. Beneath the rainbow is a pattern of eagle
feathers, which represent the strength of the spirit world to Native Americans.
In the
center of the mezuzah is the Ner
Tamid -- תמיד נר-- The "Eternal Light"
that burns in front of the Torah ark in every synagogue around the world. Symbolizing the universal presence of G-d, is
it also a symbol of Hanukkah, when a single day of oil in the Ner Tamid burned
for eight days to rededicate the Temple. The lamp hangs
over the mezuzah parchment,
framed by spiral posts of a gateway carved in Southwestern style, which is both
reminiscent of the Torah ark and represents the mystical threshold that
separates the earthly world from the divine.
The
Hebrew word Shaddai -- שדי-- rests just below. Considered the most complete and powerful
name of G-d, this word traditionally carries with it special power to bring
safety and protection, which is why it is often written on the outside of a
mezuzah parchment or case.
The mezuzah
scroll is flanked on both sides by overflowing grapevines, symbols of abundance
and bringing joy to the home and family surrounded by the wonders and spirit of
G-d.
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