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Home / Exhibits / Special Exhibits
The Birth of Christianity:
A Jewish Story
Walk through the Exhibition
Photographed by Gaby Laron, Institute of Archaeology, Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
To understand the nature of Christianity, it is important to understand the influence of Judaism. The Birth of Christianity: A Jewish Story explores this relationship through five sections, which are arranged in chronological order beginning with the Hellenistic Period, the late fourth century Before the Common Era (BCE).
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Ring Oil Lamp, 1st century BCE
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| Over seventy objects, including coins, oil lamps, juglets and amphorae—all showing the Greek influence on Jewish life after Alexander the Great conquered the Near East (332 BCE)—are featured in the first section. Next, the exhibition shifts to the Roman period, specifically King Herod. Gaze at beautiful glass objects; lamps; and some of the finest table ware of the time known as Terra Sigillata; as well as a large bath tub.
Then, the story turns from a historical period to an extraordinary theme—the burial practices of the Jews who were living in or around Jerusalem. Here, behold sixteen ossuaries, some with decorative carvings and others with inscriptions that allow visitors to reconstruct how the people who were buried in them related to one another. The fourth section chronicles the Judean Desert around the Dead Sea, the Jewish War against the Romans, and the Roman army. Discover the story of the Roman occupation of Masada, including numerous objects that depict daily Jewish life, such as bowls and pots, a sandal and a comb.
Finally, The Birth of Christianity: A Jewish Story concludes with an examination of the time before the Common Era – as it turns into the Christian era. At this point, the exhibition juxtaposes Jewish and Christian objects.
Most of the Jewish objects on display include one of the original Dead Sea Scrolls; many have the menorah on them, the earliest symbol of Judaism. The Christian objects consist of several New Testament manuscripts written on papyrus along with oil lamps and other artifacts.
In addition, view amazing artifacts brought together specifically for this exhibit from Israel, Europe and North America: including excerpts from The War Scroll; as well as ancient manuscripts from the British Library in London, with a section of the Epistle to the Hebrews in which the author refers at some length to some of the major figures in the Old Testament, thus arguing for the deep roots of the Christian faith in Judaism; plus more.
Purchase tickets to experience The Birth of Christianity: A Jewish Story. Or, Become A Member and receive discounts on all the Museum’s exhibits. Groups of 20 or more may also qualify for a discounted ticket rate.
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