Psalm CXIX 

Here we see Psalm CXIX, illuminated by the Limbourg brothers in the early 15th century. Dominating the image is the imposing castle, a potent symbol of refuge and spiritual strength, set against a star-strewn sky. This motif of the castle echoes throughout art history, from the fortified cities in medieval tapestries to the walled gardens of Persian miniatures. The castle, a sanctuary, a defense, a symbol of the soul’s yearning for divine protection, and the Virgin Mary, a safe harbor. This harkens back to the classical concept of the ‘temenos’, a sacred space set apart from the profane world. The kneeling figure, cloaked in blue, directs his gaze toward the fortress, in reverence. There is an emotional power at play, a deep-seated need for safety, for guidance, for transcendence. The image resonates with our collective memory, reminding us of the timeless human quest for solace. In the end, this symbol will continue its journey through time, each era interpreting its walls and towers, shaped by the ever-evolving human psyche.