Q&A: Classical Studies
Classical Studies
Question
Hello,
I am currently considering beginning classical studies alongside my philosophy studies—that is, the history of Greece and Rome.
I am someone who is interested in different religions and cultures. So I have a few questions regarding foreign idolatry that may come up during the course of study.
First, is reading mythology permitted? (The Jerusalem Talmud apparently permits reading Homer.)
Would visiting archaeological sites that were used for idolatrous worship be permitted?
And of course, is it appropriate to study Greece and Rome in general? After all, their enormous influence on Western culture is obvious.
I would be happy to receive a few sources. Thank you,
Harel
Answer
I don’t deal in sources, and I assume you can find some by searching online. In my opinion this is permitted, since there is no concern that you will fall into idolatry. This is a cultural and intellectual pursuit with no connection to worship. Many people study history and art, and it is impossible to do so without studying Christian sources, and quite a few halakhic decisors have permitted this. Maimonides himself studied writings of actual idol worshippers, and of course also Greek and Muslim philosophers, and many other fine scholars did the same.
Discussion on Answer
https://www.kipa.co.il/%D7%A9%D7%90%D7%9C-%D7%90%D7%AA-%D7%94%D7%A8%D7%91/%D7%98%D7%99%D7%95%D7%9C%D7%99%D7%9D-%D7%91%D7%9B%D7%A0%D7%A1%D7%99%D7%95%D7%AA%D7%9E%D7%A0%D7%96%D7%A8%D7%99%D7%9D-%D7%97%D7%A8%D7%91%D7%99%D7%9D/
Thank you very much, Rabbi, for the quick answer.
The concern is not idolatry but casting off the yoke.
What about visiting archaeological sites that were used for worship purposes?