Perhaps no time and place as had greater influence on human history than Judea in the period between the rise of the Herodian Dynasty and the destruction of the Second Temple. This era was witness to the birth of the Christian faith, and to the dream of Jewish independence, both of which have survived, even flourished, through the centuries. These two simple objects, a lamp and a coin, were in everyday use during that exciting age. The coin reminds us of mankind’s determination to live free from all oppression; the lamp is a symbol of hope against the darkness. Together, they provide an inspiring testament to the ongoing strength of the human spirit.