Graven Images: Prohibitions against Image Making and the Art of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam

The Abrahamic traditions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam,) all support the making of art that conveys sacred truths. At the same time, all three traditions have passages in their sacred texts that forbid making graven images. Within each of the three traditions there are competing interpretations of the relevant texts, resulting in a variety of artistic practices among devotees of each tradition. Looking at art from the three traditions, we will come to a greater appreciation of the variety of ways art and faith intersect, while noting similarities and differences among the Abrahamic faiths.

Rev. Hougen will be joined by both a Jewish and Muslim presenter TBD.

About the Art of Interfaith Understanding:

All programs will be guided by Rev. John B. Hougen, PhD, a consultant with Interfaith Philadelphia and a volunteer guide at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.  These programs are co-sponsored by Interfaith Philadelphia & the Philadelphia Museum of Art's Division for Community Engagement.

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Due to current restrictions on group tours at the Philadelphia Museum of Art all upcoming tours will be offered virtually.

Interfaith Philadelphia offers a sliding scale fee structure for our programs in order to welcome all from our community who wish to attend.  Please click here for guidance that will help you determine the right fee for you, between $10-$50, with $20 as the adjusted standard cost.