Moses Striking the Rock from a set of the Life of Moses 1645 - 1655

This tapestry, "Moses Striking the Rock," was woven in wool and silk in the 17th century by Agostino Melissi. At its heart lies Moses, staff in hand, a conduit for divine intervention. The act of Moses striking the rock—repeated across centuries—is a potent symbol. Water gushing forth is not just a miracle of provision, but a recurring motif of life-giving force. Consider its echo in ancient Near Eastern art, where divine figures control the flow of rivers, emblems of fertility and power. We observe how this motif transcends religious boundaries, mirroring pagan myths where gods unleash elemental forces. The emotional resonance of this image persists. It touches a primal chord within us. This scene taps into our deepest needs and expectations of leadership. It evokes a sense of wonder and profound, ancient hope.