Chagall's Menorahs (Songs Abroad/Israel)

The presence of God is represented almost universally in light and flame. The 7 candle menorah depicted in most of Chagall's work is the traditional symbol of Judaism used year-round in the tabernacle. The 9 candle menorah is used specifically to celebrate Chanukah, 8 for each day of the Festival of Lights plus the shamash, the "helper" used to light the others. Jewish/Russian-born painter Marc Chagall (1887-1985) was one of the 20th century's preeminent artists, his brilliantly colorful work often suffused with the richness of Jewish history and ritual. Music: A Chazandl Oyf Shabes (A Cantor For The Sabbath), popular cantorial tale that recounts the story of a cantor who sings for a tailor, a blacksmith and a wagon driver. Each of the three contrasts the cantor's skill with his own, declaring "Oh, how he did sing!" Recorded & performed by Jan Peerce, Al Jolson and others.