Threads of Psalms: A Unique Handcrafted Edition by Israeli Women

A new exhibition showcases a touching and unique project: An ornate Book of Psalms entirely composed of embroidery, crafted by 154 Israeli creators from the center and periphery, spanning the political spectrum, both secular and religious.

These women came from across the country and political divides, each selecting a chapter that resonated with her and embroidering an artwork inspired by it. The embroideries were compiled into a book and launched in an exhibition opening at the Beit Berl College.

In the exhibition space, the works are displayed according to the order of the psalms in the book, with each embroidery accompanied by the psalm that inspired it. Each piece offers a personal interpretation of the content. Some are colorful, others in black-and-white; some depicted images from the text, while others crafted abstract creations.

As numerous as the women, so are the interpretations. Each hand that held the thread and needle wove a unique voice into the complete psalm, contributing to a harmonious and cohesive female choral.

Photo: Studio 'The Green Man' Oriyan and Amir Shavit

Photos: Ari Baltinshtar

Photo: Ari Baltinshtar

Merav Shaked, who conceived the initiative, shared: "In the Book of Psalms, one letter connects to another, forming a word, and the words become a psalm. Similarly, in 'RokemotHilim', stitch by stitch became a line, and line by line turned into a piece of art. All the personal embroideries united into one moving creation, and the whole became greater than the sum of its parts." Shaked further added: "I've always believed in the healing, unity, and creativity inherent in us, the women. Together we embroidered love and prayers into the fabrics, hoping to create a better society and heal the world. Since the war broke out on October 7, the importance of prayer has remarkably increased."

The Book of Psalms is considered one of the oldest books of poetry in human history, written by King David over two thousand years ago. The psalms are traditionally read anytime, whether in moments of goodwill, distress, or danger. The book's name is the plural form of the word "tehillah".

The project, which began in 2022 and continued through the recent war, gained renewed strength and significance.

Women of the community gathered and embroidered prayers and love into these creations, going a step further by embroidering personal prayers on pouches containing the Book of Psalms, which were then sent to soldiers fighting on the front lines.