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AFTER THE DESTRUCTION OF THE SECOND TEMPLE
The Menorah and the Cross
Symbols of Hope and Protection
The menorah, the seven-branched candelabrum from the Temple
of Jerusalem, became one of the most powerful symbols of Jewish identity
after the Temple was razed. As an icon of the Temple itself, it represents
the Jewish people's hope for redemption, the rebuilding of the Temple
and the return of better days.
Similarly, the cross upon which Jesus was crucified symbolizes his
sacrifice for the redemption of all humanity. It also serves as a beacon
of hope in the Christian pursuit of eternal life and salvation.
In the synagogue
Although traditional Jewish law prohibits the use of figurative art,
the interiors of many synagogues were decorated with mosaics bearing
human figures, scenes from the Bible, or even the zodiac.
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In the synagogue
Collection of Israel Antiquities Authority, exhibited at The Israel Museum, Jerusalem
Photo © The Israel Museum, by Dr. Jean-Luc Pilon, Canadian Museum of Civilization
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Jewish symbols
Collection The Israel Museum, Jerusalem
Photo © The Israel Museum, by Dr. Jean-Luc Pilon, Canadian Museum of Civilization
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New symbols appear
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Christian symbols
Collection of Israel Antiquities Authority, exhibited at The Israel Museum, Jerusalem
Photo © The Israel Museum, by Dr. Jean-Luc Pilon, Canadian Museum of Civilization
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