This painting takes its title from the Old Testament story of Moses and the burning bush, where Moses is called to lead the Hebrews out of Egypt, beginning in Exodus 3 “And Moses said, ‘I will turn aside to see this great sight, why the bush is not burned.’” (Exodus 3):3

Keith Haring often used familiar religious imagery not to promote specific beliefs, but because these stories were widely recognized and visually powerful. Raised in a Christian environment but later distanced from organized religion, Haring interpreted such narratives through his bold graphic style. Here, he turns a well-known biblical moment into a modern reflection on recognizing the moments that urge us to act, speak up, or do what is right.