Mapping the Journey
"Spiritual Maps"-Exploring the "I" of Israel
Dream Map of Israel, David Moss
Mapping is the attempt to condense a reality into graphic form. We usually think of this as shrinking geographical features to scale. But mapping can also be viewed metaphorically as means of translating non-physical states into images.
We suggest exploring the personal meaning of Israel and the significance of this trip, using imaginative maps as a form of expression. As the group assembles, we will study sources on the Land of Israel and our unique relationship to it through poetry, midrash, art and pilgrimages. We will showcase artistic maps of Israel through the ages and show how physical geography merges with the spiritual. Then we will introduce the idea of imaginative, non-literal mapping . How can the design of a map reflect one's vision, dreams or values? What place does Israel have in your life and in what sense can your journey here be considered a pilgrimage? We will then help each participant create his/her own artistic map reflecting their personal connections to the land.
We suggest exploring the personal meaning of Israel and the significance of this trip, using imaginative maps as a form of expression. As the group assembles, we will study sources on the Land of Israel and our unique relationship to it through poetry, midrash, art and pilgrimages. We will showcase artistic maps of Israel through the ages and show how physical geography merges with the spiritual. Then we will introduce the idea of imaginative, non-literal mapping . How can the design of a map reflect one's vision, dreams or values? What place does Israel have in your life and in what sense can your journey here be considered a pilgrimage? We will then help each participant create his/her own artistic map reflecting their personal connections to the land.
