by arrangement with the Sir Asher Joel Foundation, to be presented by world authority on the social and cultural history of the Jews in Hellenistic and Roman periods and Jewish Christian relations, Professor of Ancient History and Director, AHRB Greek Bible in the Graeco-Roman World Project,

Professor Tessa Rajak

In bringing the renowned Professor Rajak to the next Luncheon Club, the Council aims to build on current understanding of religious interaction in the Roman Empire and on the broader question of hybrid identities. The primary focus will be on Jewish-Christian interaction: What does religious multiculturalism mean in an ancient context? What becomes of categories such as "Jew" and "Christian" and how does the interpretation of sacred texts proceed in such a situation? How exemplary is the case of the Empire's Jewish communities? What are the politics of religious contact and boundary-manipulation in the Roman Empire? What is the role of collective memory?
These are some of the questions Professor Rajak will address.
Come and be challenged! Join in the questions and discussion!

This Luncheon Club meeting will be held on Thursday, 3 September 2009, at 12.30pm at the Sydney Great Synagogue Hall, 162 Castlereagh Street (between Park and Market Streets). Admission is free (Gold Coin donation requested).

RSVP William Szekely President of CCJNSW on 0418-464056; 9290.3222 or by email: szeklex@szeklex.com.au