Purity

A rare occasion, snow in Jerusalem is as much a cultural phenomenon as it is a meteorological one. The whole city catches its breath in anticipation when snowfall is expected, and pauses all activity to celebrate its arrival and revel in its presence. I shared in the delight, but as a photographer, there is also a palpable pressure to capture the essence of the scene. Adding to the challenge of this snow fall, rain followed fast upon the snow, and I found myself framing shots and then needing to wipe the lens of rapidly accumulating droplets before each exposure, all while the snow itself was getting washed away.

“Purify me with hyssop and I will be pure; wash me till I am whiter than snow." - Psalms 51:9

In spite of the difficulties, it was impossible not to absorb the peace of the white snow upon the golden glow of the stones of the holy city. Through all the urgency of the moment, I still found myself inspired to reflect and to strive for purity and equanimity.