Rediscover Chanukah as a battle of ideas — and see how ancient objects can illuminate an eternal story.
Who were the Ancient Greeks, what were they doing in the Land of Israel, and why did they pose an existential threat to Judaism? The Chanukah story is often told as a military or spiritual victory, but at its heart lies a deeper cultural conflict — between two great civilisations that were profoundly similar yet fundamentally different.
On this thought-provoking tour, we’ll explore Greek artefacts at the British Museum — from pottery and sculpture to the Parthenon itself — to uncover what the Greeks stood for, and how their ideas about beauty, wisdom and knowledge clashed with Jewish values. We’ll reflect on why olive oil became such a powerful symbol for both cultures, and how the struggle between Hellenism and Judaism continues to shape Jewish identity today.
To book the Family Chanukah Tour of the British Museum, taking place on Sunday 6 December, please click here.
Tour price: £25
If you have any further questions, please email joel.ucko@lsjs.ac.uk.