This window is centered on the prophet Elijah being taken up to heaven in a fiery chariot. The story from the second book of kings (2:9-12) reads as follows: When they had crossed over, Elijah said to Elisha, ÒAsk for whatever I may do for you, before I am taken from you,Ó Elisha answered, ÒMay I receive a double portion of your spirit.Ó
Ò You have asked for something that is not easy,Ó he replied.
ÒStill if you see me taken up from you, your wish will be granted; otherwise
not.Ó As they were walking on
conversing, a flaming chariot and flaming horses came between them, and Elijah
went up to heaven
in a whirlwind. This
incident of two of the greatest early prophets of Israel tells of the transfer
of gift and power of prophesies from Elijah to Elisha.
Above the central image is the great shema given to Israel by Moses to
worship the one true God with all their heart, mind and strength. Below the
central image is the Holy Name of God
(YHWH),
written in Hebrew letters, which translates in I AM WHO AM. This
name was given to Moses by God himself at the burning bush