A British Museum talk exploring the ancient kingdoms of Israel and Judah drew the largest audience of Jewish Culture Month, with around 4000 people joining in person and online.
The lecture, delivered by Dr Paul Collins, Keeper of the Department of the Middle East at the British Museum, explored how objects in the Museum’s collection illuminate the history of ancient Israel and Judah, offering insights into its cultures and societies. Artefacts from across the region bring to life the daily lives and political struggles described in the Book of Kings of the Hebrew Bible as well Assyrian and Babylonian chronicles. The ancient historical events illustrated through the artefacts shape Jewish culture and practice through to the present day.
The lecture, originally scheduled for May, was re-scheduled for 11 June to ensure it could take place in a respectful and secure environment, after it emerged that individuals planned to disrupt the event.
Following the event, Board of Deputies Acting President Adrian Cohen said: “For one of the world’s most renowned museums to host the highest-attended event of Jewish Culture Month is a significant moment.
“This afternoon’s lecture on Ancient Israel and Judah was a truly enriching experience. We have been delighted to see it enjoyed by so many people, both here at the British Museum and by those joining online, reflecting the strong public appetite for engagement with Jewish history and heritage. This is exactly the type of event we envisaged for Jewish Culture Month.
“Jewish Culture Month was created by the Board of Deputies to open up Jewish life, creativity, history, and culture to the widest possible audience – from lectures, exhibitions and concerts to food, family events, comedy nights, and community celebrations. Thousands of people have joined more than 150 events across the country.
“We are proud to work in close partnership with the British Museum and with a range of cultural and academic institutions to bring events like this to life. Collaborations such as these play a vital role in deepening understanding, fostering dialogue, and ensuring that the richness of Jewish culture and history is accessible to all.
“We look forward to continuing this important work together and to many more opportunities to share and celebrate our collective heritage.”
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