Ark Curtain and Table Cover by Siona Benjamin

This incredible Ark curtain was designed by world-renowned artist, Siona Benjamin. Ms. Benjamin drew inspiration for the Ark curtain from the complicated character depicted in the Biblical story of Joseph. Young Joseph is depicted as immature, entitled, and naïve, but he matures into a clever and plotting but ultimately benevolent adult. Reflecting Joseph’s complexity, the Ark curtain features a layered design that has numerous symbols embedded within it.

Accompanying the Ark curtain is a cover for the reader's table, which features two distinct sides; one visible to anyone standing and looking out at the congregation, and a second one, displayed for the congregation to enjoy from the pews. Both sides have meaning and reference the Ark curtain.

When standing at the Amud, one looks down at branches sprouting from a central point. The branches represent an extension of those on the Ark curtain to indicate that the Teachings found within the Ark extend to the table and then out to the congregation. The branches of the tree on the Amud grow into seven distinct “buds,” which are also flames forming a menorah.

The central image on the congregation side of the artwork is a blue lotus flower. It may evoke a connection to the Ner Tamid, the Eternal Light, located in a straight line above and behind the table. The light of the Ner Tamid, in a sense, becomes a flower that opens up and spreads beauty and joy all around. The lotus also represents the artist, Ms. Benjamin, and her Indian Jewish heritage. Despite growing up Jewish, she sometimes felt excluded from the “normative” Jewish community, especially in America. It reminds us of the centrality of diversity, unity, openness, and inclusion. All are welcome here, and all are part of our community.