Bible Lands Museum Jerusalem – July 2016
Lectures, tours, and special events at the Museum in the month of July
Jezreeli Kabbalat Shabbat
Fridays | July 1st and July 22nd | 12:00 | Free for museum guests
Jewish hymns and Israeli songs together with a taste of the weekly Torah portion, to elevate the spirit. The songs will bring together the old and the new – Lekha Dodi, Adon Olam, Shalom Aleichem and more… In between songs we’ll talk about the parasha of Korah (July 1st), about the head scientist Moses, who plans an experiment with two groups involving censers and incense. We’ll talk about the meaning of refusing an order in biblical times – “And Moses sent to call Dathan and Aviram, the sons of Eliab, who said, We will not come up…” – and about collective punishment – “shall one man sin, and wilt Thou be wroth with all the congregation?”.
The parasha of Pinhas (July 22nd) will bring us to the subject of jealousy and perhaps its cure – “Behold, I give to him my covenant of peace” A wonderful and ageless woman carries some deep secrets – Serah bat Asher, one of the leaders of the biblical feminist movement.
The unique Kabbalat Shabbat will take place in the museum halls against a backdrop of ancient relics and exhibits. An open tour of the Museum with special highlights related to the Parasha will begin at 11:00.
Musicians: Korin Shavit – percussion, Shraga Broyer – keyboard, Michael Ben Naim – guitar and singing.
For tickets: purchase in advance at – 02-5611066, limited number of seats.
Travelling Museum – A tour for hikers in Tel Zafit led by Professor Aharon Meir, director of excavations
Wednesday | July 13th | 8:00
In honor of the opening of the exhibition “In the Valley of David and Goliath “, the Traveling Museum series returns with special tours to key sites of the Shfela area . The tours will provide participants a chance to discover for themselves the secrets of the Judean Lowlands, and meet world renowned archaeologists at the site during excavation season and experience the excavation experience and the excitement of discovering findings, through their eyes. Tours will be accompanied by Yehuda Kaplan, curator at the Museum and certified guide. In addition, all participants will enjoy a first glimpse of the new exhibition, “In the Valley of David and Goliath”.
Tel Zafit tour. The biblical Gath of the Philistine was the largest and most important of the five Philistine cities. During the tour we will discuss the significance of Gath’s location and its importance in the geopolitical framework as well as get a chance to see the city’s gate, recently unearthed and considered to be one of the most impressive gateways found in Israel. We will see the city walls and the residential areas as well as learn about the siege system of the city which is the most ancient of its kind discovered in Israel. We will find evidence of the great destruction that descended on the city during ninth century BCE.
Advance registration is required. Limited number of seats.
Single tour price: 170 ₪; Members: 150 ₪
We’ll meet at the Museum at 8:00 and return in the afternoon.
For details and tickets: 02-5611066
ISIS in the Lands of the Bible
Friday | July 15th | 11:00
A journalist, researcher and curator are brought together to talk about the Islamic State organization (ISIS) and the destruction of World Heritage sites across the Middle East.
Why do ISIS soldiers target archeological sites? Where does the ideological basis of the organization come from? Is ISIS a new phenomenon in the landscape of the history of the Middle East?
Panel participants are journalist Zur Sheizaf, Prof. Meir Litvak of the Hebrew University, and Museum curator, Yehuda Kaplan.
Opening lectures:
The Rise of Radical Islam – from the Muslim Brotherhood to ISIS, Prof. Meir Litvak
Lynching at Faluja – the first days of ISIS in Iraq, Zur Sheizaf
Yehuda Kaplan, curator at the Bible Lands Museum, will lead the panel.
Before the panel of experts begins, at 10:15, take a tour of the Museum with special informative stations, highlighting sites and cultures that have reached the headlines recently due to ISIS’ activities.
Tickets: purchase in advance at tel: 02-5611066, limited number of seats.
Special Museum Tour – Summer Gems
July 8th | 11:00 | Free for museum guests
A journey into the mysteries of human civilization: from its inception, with permanent settlements and the birth of cities, mankind’s greatest inventions, through the peoples and places that laid the foundations of our lives today – on a special tour of the permanent exhibition which will take you through the development of cities, writing and commerce. We will continue the journey through the temporary exhibitions. “DIONYSUS: Wine & Divine” deals with the god who humans the gift that removes cultural and social pretenses and reveals the primal instincts waiting to be exposed. Through his worship the practice of theatrics developed, which involves pretending, dressing, exposing, and masking. The new exhibition “Behind the Mask” includes masks gathered from private collections with fascinating ancient traditions from around the world – carnivals and ceremonies, ritual and popular culture, plays and more. At the Roman frescos room we will find beautiful frescoes from the suburban villas of Pompeii, which were decorated with magnificent paintings that give us a glimpse into the way of life of 1st century Rome in the first century. We will finish the tour at the Classic Gems exhibition, which deals with the material culture.
Tickets: Advance purchase is required, at tel: 02-56110066, limited number of seats.
Special Museum Tour – Cultural Landscapes
July 29th| 10:30| Free with museum admission
A different tour of the Museum which captures the stories, big and small, reflected in the exhibits of the permanent exhibition and the “Behind the Mask” exhibition. We’ll try to follow the creators of the artefacts, the period they belonged to and even the people who collected them.
We will connect the dots between the items kept by private individuals and museum exhibits. And of course, we will be left wondering about masks and the cultures in which they were created: what were they used for? What do they reveal? And what do they hide?
Tickets: Advance purchase is required, at 02-56110066. Limited number of seats.
Lectures
Wednesdays | 19:30 | Free with Museum admission
06.07.2016 – Samson in Stone: New Discoveries in the Ancient Synagogue at Huqoq, Prof. Jodi Magness, University of North Carolina. (English)
13.07.2016 – A mysterious Structure in the City of David: Was it a Crucifixion Site from the Second Temple Period? Dr. Eyal Meiron, lecturer and academic consultant for historical and archaeological projects. (Hebrew)
20.07.2016 – To be announced
27.07.2016 – The Camp of the Roman Legion in Judah – Findings of the Excavations at the Hill of the Legion’s Camp. Dr. Yotam Tepper, Haifa University. (Hebrew)
Storytime – Mythologies of the Ancient World
Wednesdays | July 2016 | 16:45
A unique and magical Storytime will take place at the Bible Lands Museum galleries once a week starting June 1st, running until the end of August. Children and parents are invited for an hour inside the ancient and secret world of Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, Horus and Seth, Pegasus the flying horse and many other characters from the mythologies of the ancient Near East. The ancient kingdoms of the past of Mesopotamia, Canaan, Egypt and Greece will come to life amongst an array of authentic archeological Museum exhibits, which will provide a perfect and enchanted backdrop for the experience. Cross-legged on the carpet, sitting between thousand year old exhibits, Rebecca Shabtay the storyteller will carry us safely away into a world that no longer exists through the help of our imagination. The Storytime will take children, through quality family activities which include a tour and craft activities inspired by ancient stories, on a journey of emotions and challenges involving love, sibling rivalry, shame, responsibility, friendship and more.The series is designed for children between the ages of 4 – 8.
Price: Museum admission for kids is free! The cost per meeting is 22 NIS per child, three kids at a special price of 55 NIS. 50% discount off adult admission.
Tickets may be purchased in advance at 02-56110066. Limited number of seats.
“The Code” – for inquisitive kids! Deciphering riddles from ancient times
Wednesdays | July 2016 | 18:00
The Bible Lands Museum presents an unforgettable detective experience for the whole family – deciphering riddles from ancient times created by prophets, priests, wise men and warriors of ancient cultures. The riddles will lead the participants between the galleries of the museum and will reveal to the group a fantastic world from times gone by. The group has only 60 minutes to crack the code… Or they will fail at their important task… Are you ready for the challenge?
Designed for children ages 8-12, duration: approx. 1 hour. Museum admission is free for children! Price: kids: 22 NIS, price for 3 kids/members: 55 NIS. Adults: 50% discount on museum admission. No double discounts. Tickets should be purchased in advance at: 02-5611066. Limited number of participants.
Lost at the Museum – Self Guided Activity for the Whole Family
July 2016
A fascinating family activity in search of treasures of the ancient world.
Royalty and wizardry invites you on a spectacular journey in search of lost heirlooms! Using an Adventure Book and a special map, we will look for shiny jewelry and hunting tools that have disappeared in the Museum and discover ancient spells and mysterious papyrus writings. But beware of the lurking demons that are trying to throw you off the trail!
We will meet Shireen the Persian Princess who has many talents – she plays music, sings and dances; she’s a master of martial arts and leads the army when she’s called to defend the kingdom, and she’s also a famous mosaic artist. But alas, the princess’ hunting tools have disappeared along with her jewelry and royal musical instruments! Help the princess find her belongings with the help of hints and tools. Follow the “adventure book” and a map that will guide you on your path to finding the lost heirlooms and solving the mystery!
At the Magic Hut we will help the wizard find his magical artefacts! Special seals which he made into talismans, demon traps for protection, ancient incantations and papyrus scrolls hidden away in the museum and reveled through encrypted writings and secret missions. Join the journey of the wizard in search of his lost artefacts!
Tickets: Museum admission is free for kids! Price for activity: 25 NIS.
Celebrate your next event with us!
Weddings, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, Conferences, Corporate Events and Receptions
Hold your next event at the Museum and enjoy a unique atmosphere and a once in a lifetime experience including private tours of the Museum and excellent catering. Exclusive use of the Museum, auditorium, reception halls and the Biblical Garden can all be made available just for you.
Special Programs for Bar/Bat Mitzvahs:
King for a Day – The young Bar/Bat Mitzvah guides family and guests in a special tour, tailored according to the Parashah.
Linking the Chain of Generations – A new program which includes an enchanting activity for kids and fascinating tours for adults. An adventure tour with challenges and costumes.
After the Kotel – Enjoy a series of creative activities based on Bible stories, Jewish holidays and more.
For further information and reservations: events@blmj.org
The best museum shop in Jerusalem
Unique and original gifts by leading Israeli designers
Gifts for the holidays * Jewelry * Judaica * Games * Unique replicas of museum exhibits * Catalogues and book * Gifts for homes and offices
Contact us: shop@blmj.org | www.blmj.org/catalog/ | www.facebook.com/BLMJ.Shop
Exhibitions – July 2016:
Permanent Exhibition
The Bible Lands Museum Jerusalem houses one of the most important collections of ancient Near Eastern artifacts, from the dawn of civilization to the period of the Talmud. The exhibits shed a light on the world of the peoples of the Bible.
Classic gems
Classic works of art which illustrate the influence of Hellenistic culture on Italian art, during the classic period.
Roman Fresco Room
A collection which is the only one of its kind in Israel, displaying classic Roman Frescos originating from the villas of the suburbs of Pompei, Italy. Viewing by request only.
DIONYSUS: Wine & Divine
A brief encounter with the god of wine, intoxication and ecstasy, and his frenzied entourage in this display of enchanting artifacts, many of which are being exhibited for the first time.
Exhibition: ‘Behind the Mask’ – The “Community Curates” project
A new exhibition opens at the Bible Lands Museum Jerusalem titled ‘Behind the Mask’, made up entirely of masks belonging to private individuals. For the first time in history, the public will showcase their personal treasures in this museum. The exhibition is part of a new initiative at the BLMJ, the “Community Curates” project, which invites the public to dust off their treasures and put them on display. Behind the Mask features masks from all continents, ancient and modern, from collectors all over Israel, and will be accompanied by special tours and activities.
Self-guided activities at the “Behind the Mask” exhibition, during July and August
Self-guided activity pages and board games for kids will accompany the exhibition. Activities will invite kids on a magical journey in the footsteps of masks around the world. Game tables will be made available to museum guests at all times.
Price: 22-44 NIS. Tel: 02-5611066. Address: 21 Stephen Wise, Museum Row, Jerusalem.
- Daily guided tours of the Permanent Exhibition, free with admission:
Sunday – Friday English 10:30, Hebrew 11:00
Additional tour on Wednesdays English 17:30, Hebrew 18:00
Saturday Hebrew 11:30
- Audio guides of the Permanent Exhibition in Hebrew and English, for self-tours of the Museum
- Reserve tours in additional languages and for groups in advance: contact@blmj.org
General Information
The Bible Lands Museum Jerusalem (BLMJ), located on Museum Row in the heart of the modern cultural center of Jerusalem, is a museum of archeology and history. The museum is considered to be the only one in the world designed according to a biblical perspective, displaying the history of lands and nations mentioned in the Bible, such as the Babylonians, the Persians and the Egyptians. The permanent collection houses thousands of artefacts which reveal thousands of years of history, from the dawn of civilization to the Early Christian Era, making up one of the most important and fascinating collections in the field. Founded in 1992 by the late Dr. Elie Borowski and his wife Batya, the Bible Lands Museum’s extensive collection of ancient art and archaeology helps visitors gain a more intimate understanding of biblical history and the heritage of the Bible. BLMJ has earned international acclaim as a universal center for cultural and educational programming. It leads innovative tours for school children, presents weekly lectures, and offers a variety of courses for adults. The Museum is a vibrant cultural institution offering creative programs for families, changing exhibitions and a rich array of activities throughout the year.
21 Stefan Wise St., Museum Row
| Opening Hours: |
| Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 9:30 – 17:30 Wednesday 9:30 – 21:30 Friday, Saturday, Holiday Eves 10:00 – 14:00 Jewish Holidays Closed
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| www.blmj.org | 02-5611066
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- Admission fees – Adults: 44 NIS. Child (5-18)/Student/Soldier/Disabled/New Oleh/Senior Citizen: 22 NIS. Senior Citizen (non-Israeli): 35 NIS.
Wednesdays from 4 PM and Saturdays – free admission for kids! Curtesy of the Friends of the Museum.
- Please note: Parking arrangements have been changed in the shared parking lot of the BLMJ and the Israel Museum – only visitors to the museums will be allowed to park and will be asked to present museum entrance tickets upon leaving the parking lot.
- Enjoy special discounts on museum entrance fees. Bring your paid ticket receipt from the BLMJ to the Israel Museum or the Bloomfield Science Museum, to receive discounts on entrance within the same week.
All Museum programs are subject to change.
