Priestly Blessing Print

The Birkat Kohanim is an ancient prayer found in the Torah. Aaron and Moses used it to bless the people of Yisroel. Different communities recite the Birkat Kohanim in different ways, and it continues to epitomize the idea of blessing as a concept. In the synagogue, a Kohen or healer blesses their community with these words, often while holding their hands in the shape of the Hebrew letter “Shin” (think Spock on Startrek). In the home on Shabbat, it is a custom for parents to bless their children with this blessing.

8”x8” archival print made with hand painted watercolor and digital collage.

In English, the text says:

May G-d bless you and guard you,
May G-d’s face shed light upon you and
be gracious unto you,
May G-d’s face lift up to you and give you
peace.