Linocut – The Greatest Name
Printmaking is an artistic technique that involves drawing or carving an image onto a rigid surface, known as a matrix, and then transferring that image onto another surface, usually paper, through a printing process. It is one of the oldest forms of image reproduction.
Main characteristics of printmaking:
Matrix: can be made of metal (such as copper or zinc), wood, linoleum, stone, or even synthetic materials.
Inking: ink is applied to the worked matrix.
Printing: the image is transferred to paper by pressure, using a press or manually.
Multiplicity: allows for multiple copies of the same design, called prints or impressions.
“Yá Bahá’u’lláh” (يا بهاء الله) is an invocation meaning “O Glory of God!” or “O Bahá’u’lláh!”. It is a way to call upon and praise the founder of the Bahá’í Faith, Bahá’u’lláh, acknowledging His divinity and spiritual authority.
“ ‘Abhá” (أبهى) is an Arabic superlative meaning “The Most Glorious” or “The Most Radiant.” In the Bahá’í Faith, it is used to refer to the glory of God and also as a devotional greeting among Bahá’ís. It is often associated with Bahá’u’lláh’s name to express the highest exaltation.
The symbol combining these expressions represents divine light, glory, and the spiritual presence of Bahá’u’lláh, serving as a visual reminder of unity and spiritual elevation for believers.
“Yá Bahá’u’lláh” and “‘Abhá” also appear in Bahá’í calligraphy, jewelry, temples, and devotional objects. Hoda has therefore created linocuts using what we also call The Greatest Name.
