hebrew art
Ayin
Illuminated Hebrew Letter
©2006 Adam Rhine
Watercolor and Colored Pencil on Paper
The eyes of all look to You with hope, and You provide them with their food in its proper time." (Psalm 145:14)

Ayin is the sixteenth letter, and its numerical value is 70. There are 70 Names of G-d (according to the Baal HaTurim). During the time of Moses, the Torah was inscribed on stones in 70 different languages before the Nation of Israel crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land. There are also 70 Holy Days during the year on the Hebrew Calendar.

Ayin is also a word that means “eye.” Eyes are our conduit to perceiving the wonders of G-d’s creation, and giving us insight into its workings. Additionally it refers to the “Eye of G-d” which sees all as he cares for his Chosen People.