Q&A: Reading a Book of Greek Mythology
Originally published:
This is an English translation (via GPT-5.4). Read the original Hebrew version.
Reading a Book of Greek Mythology
Question
Hi Rabbi,
Is it permitted to read a book that entirely revolves around Greek mythology—gods and idolatry?
It’s important to clarify that the gods and all the idolatry really get into your head, even if you decide it’s just a book.
I’d appreciate a quick answer.
Answer
I didn’t understand what you mean by saying they “get into your head.” And what does it mean to decide that it’s just a book? What else would it be, if not just a book?
I don’t see any prohibition in reading this. Today it is a very central part of the cultural foundations within which we live, and it has no connection at all to actual beliefs.
Discussion on Answer
I don’t see any problem with that.
By “gets into your head” I mean, for example, that people use it in expressions, talk about it seriously, think about it, etc.
Usually, when we read a book, we really enter into it and imagine ourselves in all kinds of situations from the book.
A book whose whole plot revolves around idolatry—for example, before every meal they throw the best food into the fire for the gods, and so on.