Our Stained Glass Windows

The complete top of the Eastern Wall of our Temple contains the story of the twelve tribes of Israel etched into the windows.

The two-toned gray area in these first three windows form a chain link looped together. The breath of God sweeps through these windows parting the waters on either side of the Temple and breaking the chains of bondage.

The twelve banners each bear a symbol of one of the twelve tribes. Jacob fathered twelve sons. They are the ancestors of the twelve tribes of Israel and the ones for whom the tribes are named. Each occupied a separate territory, except the tribe of Levi, which was set apart to serve in the Holy Temple. These twelve banners flow towards the center to represent the Exodus.

The numerous stars in the sky surrounding these banners remind us of God's promise to Abraham... "I will multiply thy seed as the stars of heaven."

These are the emblems of the twelve tribes. Starting right to left:

1. The Banner of Reuben - Water - Jacob's first born
2. The banner of Simeon - The Sword - The instrument of war
3. The banner of Levi - The Breastplate - The protector of the Tabernacle
4. The banner of Judah - The Lion - Strength and consistency of purpose
5. The banner of Zebulun - The Ship on the Sea - His territory is described as a shore for ships to come in safety
6. The banner of Issachar - The Strong Ass with Two Burdens - Great physical power
7. The banner of Dan - The Serpent - A horned snake but highly venomous
8. The banner of Gad - Troop, Tent, and Spear - Commandos, raiders
9. The banner of Asher - Horn of Plenty - Delicacies fit for the tables of Kings
10. The banner of Naphtali - Hind - Swiftness and grace of movement
11. The banner of Joseph - The Fruitful Vine
12. The banner of Benjamin - A Wolf that Raveneth or That Teareth - Referring to the warlike character of the tribe

According to Hasidic legend, there have to be 36 righteous people on earth for the world to continue. These 36 tzaddikim are represented by the 36 jewels in the background of these three larger windows.