We’re in the Hebrew month of Av– whose astrological sign is the Lion …. in the “mainstream” Zodiac, the Lion sign of Leo covers July 23-August 22 — and a “World Lion Day” is marked August 10…. so, as in previous years we’re posting images of lions used in Jewish ritual art and decoration.
This year, they are Lions that JHE’s Ruth Ellen Gruber encountered on a recent trip to Jewish heritage sites and communities in Romania.
Of course, as a symbol, the Lion — one of the most frequently mentioned animals in the Bible — plays a powerful role in Jewish tradition beyond the astrological symbol, and as such it figures frequently in the decoration of synagogues, Jewish gravestones, papercuts, and other items.
The lion is is the symbol of the tribe of Judah, and it represents strength, courage and majesty. Lions often can be found flanking representations of the Ten Commandments or the Crown of the Torah.
On gravestones, representations of the lion may refer to the name of the deceased, such as Arieh or Leib.
Here’s a selection from synagogues and Jewish cemeteries in several towns in Romania…
1 comment on “A Pride of Jewish Lions (in Romania) for the month Av — and World Lion Day, 2024”
What an incredible treasure …
Thanks so much for this … and for all you do to bring our rich visual traditions into sharp focus so all can appreciate their significance.