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.

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

Jewish symbols Collection The Israel Museum, Jerusalem Photo © The Israel Museum, by Dr. Jean-Luc Pilon, Canadian Museum of Civilization

New symbols appear

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