Ancient Mesopotamia was the cradle of some of the richest human civilizations. Emerging gradually as the first monotheistic religion, Judaism often rejected myths and beliefs prevalent in this region. Others, however, were too prevalent to be rejected all together, and were in fact incorporated and integrated into the new and evolving religion and culture.

In this series, we will follow such myths and traditions, echoing through the Bible and in Jewish customs. We will hear from some of the most interesting researchers exploring the overlap between Jewish traditions and regional epochs, read biblical texts in new ways, and identify similar influences shared by other religions in the area.

In partnership with HUC-JIR, coordinated by Liat Alon, PhD & Adjunct Lecturer at HUC-JIR