There is a very beautiful expression in the Hebrew language that's borrowed from spoken Torah... 'All is predicted, and permission is given at any point to change anything.' I think I live by this idiom in the sense that there is always a goal; there is always something to look forward to in life and my creative search, and that goal is there.

Neri Oxman’s quote draws from a Hebrew expression rooted in the spoken Torah, reflecting a philosophical interplay between destiny and free will. The phrase, “All is predicted, and permission is given at any point to change anything,” suggests a dual truth: while life may follow a certain trajectory or pattern, individuals retain the power to intervene and redefine their path. This viewpoint integrates a sense of divine foresight with human agency, allowing for both structure and transformation.

Oxman interprets this idiom as a guiding principle for her life and creative search. By acknowledging that “there is always a goal,” she points to the presence of purpose and aspiration, even in the midst of uncertainty or ambiguity. This goal—whether spiritual, intellectual, or artistic—acts as a constant beacon, anchoring her while she explores new ideas or ventures into uncharted territories.

The phrase also highlights the profound freedom to change, which is central to Oxman’s ethos as a designer and thinker. In her work, which often bridges biology, architecture, and technology, the notion that everything is changeable aligns with her drive to innovate and transcend conventional boundaries. The idea that one can evolve continually—despite predictions or expectations—opens the door to radical creativity.

The origin of this quote lies in Jewish philosophical teachings that balance predetermination with moral choice. By drawing on these ancient insights, Oxman reveals how timeless wisdom can shape contemporary thought and innovation. Her embrace of this expression illustrates a belief in the power of vision, adaptation, and the relentless pursuit of meaning.