Wise Hearted

Wise hearted men, wise hearted women
bring what you can, silver and linen
wool of crimson, and of blue
and the bodies I gave you

Build me a tent that I can dwell in
incense and oil and precious stones
and when you walk I’ll walk beside you
and where you live will be my home

Betzalel, guide them well
Build me a place to dwell

Melt down melt down your copper mirrors
to make a sacred bowl
and every day when you approach me
wash your bodies and your souls

Make me a lamp with seven branches
from a single piece of gold
seven arms like almond blossoms
in their fire your eyes will glow

Oholiav, fill them with love
Make me a place to live

Weave me a cloth with angels’ faces
just as fine as thread can sew
and when I see how they surround me
I will know that I am home

Wise hearted men, wise hearted women
Bring what you can, silver and linen

A love song about creativity and spirituality, in honor of the women – and everyone else – who brought their talents and gifts to create the Mishkan (Tabernacle). The melody and chords come from an American folk song, “Come All Ye Fair and Tender Maidens.”