The visual arts: An alternative lens through which to learn about Judaism

For centuries Christians believed Judaism to be a religious tradition which prohibited the representation of G-d (G-d used in deference to Jewish people who do not use the sacred name even in translation) and by extension prohibited all visual images. Such a limited view has skewed and restricted our interpretation of this ancient religious tradition. This article proposes that by studying Jewish art we will broaden and illumine our understanding of Judaism. Such a study may well yield rich data and open other avenues of historical inquiry. Contradictions and conflicts not identified in verbal and written texts may also come to light. The article will focus particularly on synagogue art and some of the works of Marc Chagall.