Jacob called for his sons and said, “Gather, and I will tell you what will happen to you at the end of days. Gather and listen, sons of Jacob, and listen to Israel, your father . . .” All these are the twelve tribes of Israel; each man, according to his blessing, he blessed them. (Genesis: 49:1–2, 28)

Jacob lies on his deathbed as his children gather around for his final words. Light seeps out of the darkness as Jacob lifts his hands to bless his sons, the 12 tribes of Israel. He bestows upon them blessings in which lie the destiny of the Jewish people. The light of these blessings illuminates the darkness with golden hues, a poignant metaphor for the mission of the children of Israel in their exile. The subtlety and gradation in the shadows represent each tribe’s unique journey.