Who Could Have Foreseen The Madness

2019, Oil on Italian Linen, 120 x 100cm

It was the ultimate temper tantrum. Just back from his one to one with God, carrying a bunch of new commands from the boss, Moses sees his trusty band of Israelites, newly free from Egyptian slavery, partying. Worshiping a golden calf.  The indignation. How dare they enjoy their freedom by celebrating as they see fit? 

In terrible rage he throws the newly minted stone tablets to the ground, smashing them. In this moment he becomes the Dark Knight, the lone crusader personally assuming moral guardianship of his wards. 

The first 4 commandments are needy demands for complete loyalty. But here’s a thought. Moses hadn’t even made it down Mt. Sinai before he’s already smashed them. The Israelites hadn’t read them. They weren’t to know.