( photo by Warren Lieb )

The Founding of Beth Elohim Mural

The mural on the south wall depicts “The Founding of Beth Elohim.” The building and flames shown in the left part of the mural represent the fire destroying the old 1794 synagogue. On the right side of the mural one sees the present temple. One six-branched menorah, representing KKBE’s early orthodox status and one seven-branched menorah, representing reform, are shown. The hands outstretched with divided fingers is the traditional way in which the priestly blessing is given.

( photo by Warren Lieb )

The Patriots of Beth Elohim Mural

The mural on the north wall, on the left, depicts “The Patriots of Beth Elohim.” The figure on the horse represents the young Revolutionary patriot and legislator, Francis Salvador, who was killed and scalped by Tory-led Indians. He was one of more than twenty Beth Elohim congregants who fought in the American Revolution, symbolized by the standing figure holding a Bible who represents Abraham Alexander, a Revolutionary officer and religious leader of Beth Elohim 1764—1784. The soldier with the broken sword and bowed head represents some 180 South Carolinians who served in the Civil War: the soldier on the left represents KKBE members who served in subsequent wars.

                                                                                                                                ( photos by Warren Lieb )

                                            The Willard Hirsch Sculptures

The two striking pieces of steel sculpture on the east wall were made by another of our well-known local artists, the late Willard Hirsch, a member of KKBE. “The Prophet of Hope and Consolation” is on the left and “The Prophet of Admonition” is to the right.