Starting at Passover, we count the 49 days leading to Shavuot. As we reach the halfway point in our count, we will create, relax, and explore how this period can offer us a personal journey through the spiritual wilderness. Following a teaching on Shir HaShirim and rabbinic midrashim, we will create Zentangle®-inspired art as our own creative interpretations of this passionate, poetic text.

The Zentangle® method is an easy-to-learn, fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. In Zentangle®, the focus is on the process of creation rather than on the end result. This meditative practice can reduce stress, increase focus and creativity, and offer a way to explore feelings and one's personal spiritual journey. In a Jewish context, Zentangle® can be used to create visual interpretations of sacred texts and explore our relationship with Jewish life.

Rabbi Ashira Stevens serves as the rabbi of Temple Emanu-El of Haverhill. She holds a Master degree in Jewish Studies from Hebrew College, where she was ordained in 2023. Prior to her ordination, she taught in Jewish communities in the Boston area, including spending nine years as Prozdor faculty. She is passionate about encouraging people to find their own unique connections to Jewish texts, traditions, and experiences. In 2015, she became a Certified Zentangle® Teacher and delights in using the Zentangle® Method as a powerful tool for exploring Jewish texts and themes.