עברית
David D'Or: "Nothing in This World Truly Belongs to Us"
*Music and Meaning: Discovering the Divine Spark with David D'Or* - Join us for insights on his spiritual connections, childhood lessons on human kindness and cruelty, and an upcoming soulful Selichot performance featuring Amir Benayoun and Ishay Ribo.
David D'Or and Amir Benayoun (Photo: Ariel Besor)An Artistic Introduction
Meet David D'Or, 52, an accomplished musician and painter living in Givatayim, married with two children.
Echoes of Nostalgia
"There was a story I read as a child that still touches me deeply. It wasn't a famous fairy tale, but rather a less-known story about a special horse called 'Soset HaArava.' This incredible horse had unmatched racing talent, which made everyone want to own her. As a result, she was cruelly torn from her family in the plain and passed through many owners, each exploiting her ability for more race winnings. It all changes when an Indian who truly cares for her realizes that her talent is causing her suffering. Although he could profit greatly, he cuts a tendon in her leg, making her unfit for racing. She returns to her family and lives out her life in happiness.
"I vividly remember the emotions I felt reading that story—saddened by human greed, yet uplifted by the nobility of her savior. Even as a child, I understood the choice between good and evil. Humans are capable of wonderful, great deeds but can also fall to depths of cruelty."
The Light of Judaism
"Choosing just one point of light in Judaism is impossible; it's a spectrum of illumination blending into a grand light. I connect deeply with the spiritual interpretations of the Torah, the mystical teachings that reveal the profound meanings in every word, verse, or commandment.
"When I hear interpretations that move me, I feel an inner transformation, an overwhelming joy and connection to something greater than myself. I love soaring in thoughts, often finding clarity where I previously saw none."
A Spark of Inspiration
"The Baal Shem Tov inspires me. His vision for Judaism embraced love as a way of life, bridging practical and mystical realms. The Baal Shem Tov's foundational ideas opened a previously closed and conservative Jewish world.
"Thanks to him, many Jews found their place in Israel. His tales of wisdom continue to serve as guidance. Yet, I fear those who commercialize Kabbalah, spreading half-truths in Judaism's name. Finding a wise rabbi who knows what's teachable and what's not—understanding today's spiritual hunger—turns learning into sheer delight."
Expressing Through Action
"I'm currently working on a new album of original creations while continuing with the 'Shirat Rabim' project, recording traditional and contemporary melodies of Jewish texts with various artists. I'm also preparing a painting exhibition for Israel and New York.
"Faith is a strong presence in my music, sometimes indirectly or directly. Just a couple of years ago, performing our first Selichot concert in Caesarea was exhilarating. This Sunday, Amir Benayoun and I will share the stage at the Tel Aviv Culture Hall for a joint Selichot performance with the wonderful Ishay Ribo. Singing is a profound way to seek forgiveness; music speaks the heart's language, softening even the hardest of hearts."
Charity's Noble Cause
"Tzedakah—or charity—is a mitzvah close to my heart. Knowing we are one living human tapestry means when one is blessed, they should share with others, bringing joy through giving. True generosity sparks joy in both giver and receiver alike.
"I'm deeply aware that nothing in this world is truly ours, except for the mitzvot we've accomplished. Another's pain, far or near, resonates within me. This mitzvah connects to our humanity and compassion, cleansing the giver of ego and self-reliance, rewarding them with insight into their fortunes."
The Gift of Shabbat
"Shabbat is the crown; I anticipate it all week. As it arrives, the house fills with a pure, gentle light. The aroma of challah and meals permeate the clean home, immersing the family in a different ambiance. The Kiddush, Shabbat table, melodies, stories, and guests from near and far, each sharing their experiences and dreams, create a sublime feeling.
"My wife's cooking is unparalleled; no gourmet restaurant compares. The special family bond, sweeping away the week's concerns and connecting deeply at the Shabbat table, is true Shabbat delight."
Meet David D'Or, 52, an accomplished musician and painter living in Givatayim, married with two children.
Echoes of Nostalgia
"There was a story I read as a child that still touches me deeply. It wasn't a famous fairy tale, but rather a less-known story about a special horse called 'Soset HaArava.' This incredible horse had unmatched racing talent, which made everyone want to own her. As a result, she was cruelly torn from her family in the plain and passed through many owners, each exploiting her ability for more race winnings. It all changes when an Indian who truly cares for her realizes that her talent is causing her suffering. Although he could profit greatly, he cuts a tendon in her leg, making her unfit for racing. She returns to her family and lives out her life in happiness.
"I vividly remember the emotions I felt reading that story—saddened by human greed, yet uplifted by the nobility of her savior. Even as a child, I understood the choice between good and evil. Humans are capable of wonderful, great deeds but can also fall to depths of cruelty."
The Light of Judaism
"Choosing just one point of light in Judaism is impossible; it's a spectrum of illumination blending into a grand light. I connect deeply with the spiritual interpretations of the Torah, the mystical teachings that reveal the profound meanings in every word, verse, or commandment.
"When I hear interpretations that move me, I feel an inner transformation, an overwhelming joy and connection to something greater than myself. I love soaring in thoughts, often finding clarity where I previously saw none."
A Spark of Inspiration
"The Baal Shem Tov inspires me. His vision for Judaism embraced love as a way of life, bridging practical and mystical realms. The Baal Shem Tov's foundational ideas opened a previously closed and conservative Jewish world.
"Thanks to him, many Jews found their place in Israel. His tales of wisdom continue to serve as guidance. Yet, I fear those who commercialize Kabbalah, spreading half-truths in Judaism's name. Finding a wise rabbi who knows what's teachable and what's not—understanding today's spiritual hunger—turns learning into sheer delight."
Expressing Through Action
"I'm currently working on a new album of original creations while continuing with the 'Shirat Rabim' project, recording traditional and contemporary melodies of Jewish texts with various artists. I'm also preparing a painting exhibition for Israel and New York.
"Faith is a strong presence in my music, sometimes indirectly or directly. Just a couple of years ago, performing our first Selichot concert in Caesarea was exhilarating. This Sunday, Amir Benayoun and I will share the stage at the Tel Aviv Culture Hall for a joint Selichot performance with the wonderful Ishay Ribo. Singing is a profound way to seek forgiveness; music speaks the heart's language, softening even the hardest of hearts."
Charity's Noble Cause
"Tzedakah—or charity—is a mitzvah close to my heart. Knowing we are one living human tapestry means when one is blessed, they should share with others, bringing joy through giving. True generosity sparks joy in both giver and receiver alike.
"I'm deeply aware that nothing in this world is truly ours, except for the mitzvot we've accomplished. Another's pain, far or near, resonates within me. This mitzvah connects to our humanity and compassion, cleansing the giver of ego and self-reliance, rewarding them with insight into their fortunes."
The Gift of Shabbat
"Shabbat is the crown; I anticipate it all week. As it arrives, the house fills with a pure, gentle light. The aroma of challah and meals permeate the clean home, immersing the family in a different ambiance. The Kiddush, Shabbat table, melodies, stories, and guests from near and far, each sharing their experiences and dreams, create a sublime feeling.
"My wife's cooking is unparalleled; no gourmet restaurant compares. The special family bond, sweeping away the week's concerns and connecting deeply at the Shabbat table, is true Shabbat delight."
