Thursday, April 09, 2009

Pesach & Maundy Thursday

Pesach & Maundy Thursday

Photo & Text Copyright 2009 Seattle Daily Photo. All rights reserved, including reproduction or republishing.

I came across this intensely red Oregon Grape leaf early in the morning while in the Eastlake neighborhood on the shore of Lake Union. I have loved seeing this Pacific Northwest plant in every season as it changes. It is in bright yellow bloom right now, but that is not what caught me for this shot. The rain on the bright leaf brought me an amalgam of thought about the significance of today, a holy day for people of many faiths around the globe. The deep red like lamb's blood on the lintel and posts, the beads of water like salty tears or water for hand washing or foot washing, or like ten drops of wine beaded on my plate, the thorny edges circling it all with a bitterness. Our family's observances this year include a traditional Passover Seder with friends and a Maundy Thursday Tenebrae service which ends in total darkness and silence. Unless you are familiar with these traditions they probably have no significance for you, in which case, here is a pretty Oregon Grape leaf with rain drops that I hope you enjoy seeing! :-)

10 comments:

brattcat said...

Perfect choice for today, Kim.

lavenderlady said...

This is a stunning photo. Thank you for sharing.

Virginia said...

This takes my breath, Kim. Thank you for this beautiful image. May your Good Friday be very meaningful.
V

Shell Sherree said...

Beautiful on so many levels, Kim. Wishing you a most special day.

Steve Harris said...

That's a beautiful photo... very nice!

Pat said...

Gorgeous, and so significant. Beautiful colors, and an overall terrific shot.

Jane Hards Photography said...

It is such an unusual image. So many textures and colours merging. Thoughtful post and very evocatively written.

Dawning Inspiration said...

I love everything about this post!
Happy Easter!

Maya said...

Wow! That shot just leaves me speechless.

Marie-Noyale said...

I enjoyed very much your picture and comments,as well as the explanation of both Seder and Holly Thursday.