OLD TESTAMENT WINDOW #3
MOSES
AND GOD WILL BE WITH YOU.
In this window are symbolized three occasions of the power of God touching Moses. At the bottom of the window is the burning bush a symbol of God's call to Moses to lead his people from slavery. It is in this symbol of fire and light that indicates God's power, presence, and guidance.
At the center of the window is the rock which was struck by Moses and out of which flowed water. This is another symbol of God's presence to His people and His concern for their welfare. This symbol of water in the Old Testament window is carried over into the New Testament as the symbol of life and vitality which we as Christians receive at our Baptism. At the top of the window are the tablets of the law symbolic of the law given by God to Moses. In the same section is a cherub. The cherub in the Jewish tradition is an attendant of God. They are symbols of the power which supported and guarded the presence of God. They, therefore, are symbolic of God's immediate presence. They also were usually represented in the art of biblical times as winged creatures.
Rising up from the water and rock and enveloping the cherub's head is the Shekhinah represented by the flame. The Shekhinah is the majestic presence or manifestation of God. It is the light which signifies His presence. Together the cherub and the Shekhinah represent the personification of the Spirit of the Lord, and it is a symbol of great power and beauty.
