An extraordinary exhibition showcasing biblical artifacts has made its way to the United States, thanks to Israeli entrepreneur Oded Golan. His exhibit, titled “Discovering the World of Jesus: Ancient Treasures From the Holy Land,” opened on December 3 at Pullman Yards in Atlanta, featuring hundreds of ancient relics that illuminate the New Testameant
"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for people to witness items that are rarely seen," Golan shared with CBN News. The collection includes 350 artifacts, most dating back to the time of Christ, all discovered in Israel, each telling a story from the New Testament.
Golan emphasized the personal connection visitors can make with history, stating, “You’re almost touching the history.” Many items relate to Jesus’ family and the culture of his time, allowing attendees to explore life during the New Testament era.
Feedback from audiences has been overwhelmingly positive. Golan noted that while the exhibit doesn’t change faith or belief, it enriches how people perceive biblical narratives. “It changes how you feel and see the stories mentioned in the Bible,” he said.
Golan's journey into the world of archaeology began in childhood,
evolving into a passion that led to what he claims is the largest collection of biblical artifacts globally. Despite shifting career paths, his love for archaeology remained, driving him to gather relics throughout the Holy Land.
The exhibition focuses on items from the early first century AD, coinciding with the life of Jesus, as well as a few from the subsequent centuries when early churches began to emerge.
“It doesn’t matter what age you are or your beliefs; it’s a fantastic experience for everyone,” Golan remarked.
In 2012, Golan gained international attention during a trial regarding the James ossuary, a significant relic believed to contain the bones of Jesus’ brother, James. After a lengthy legal battle, he was acquitted of all serious charges related to the artifact, which features an inscription that many argue points to evidence of Christ’s brother.
Reflecting on his journey, Golan noted that he read the New Testament for the first time later in life, prompting a deeper understanding of the artifacts in his collection. He stresses the significance of the James ossuary within the exhibition, hoping it inspires visitors to contemplate the historical context of these relics.
“You’re touching history—almost physically,” Golan reiterated, highlighting the unique experience his exhibition offers. Following its run in Atlanta, he plans to take “Discovering the World of Jesus: Ancient Treasures From the Holy Land” to other cities across the U.S. Stay tuned for more updates on this remarkable journey.
