# Jew and Roman: can a friendship survive the weight of an empire?

> How long can a friendship endure oppression and suffering? Explore the divide between Judah and Messala under Roman rule in Ben-Hur.

URL: https://blog.univervideo.com/judeu-e-romano-pode-uma-amizade-sobreviver-ao-peso-de-um-imperio?lang=en
Idioma: en
Publicado em: 2026-05-28
Autor: Editorial team
Categoria: Ben-Hur

In the world of **Ben-Hur**, **Judah Ben-Hur** is a Jewish prince. Wealthy, respected by his people and faithful to his identity, he lives in Jerusalem under the rule of the Roman Empire.

As a prince, **Judah** has status and prestige among the Jews. Before the Roman government, however, he does not receive the same respect. The Romans rule through imposition: they levy heavy taxes, exercise absolute control and treat conquered peoples as inferior. Any sign of resistance is met with violence.

It is in this context of oppression that one of the story's dramas emerges: how can two friends remain united when they belong to opposite sides?

**The beginning of the friendship**

During childhood, **Judah** and **Messala** were friends. **Judah** sees in **Messala** the brother he never had and has never viewed him differently for being Roman. For a time, this friendship seems possible, but Rome's domination places them on opposing sides.

The Roman naturally carries the mindset of a conqueror and ruler: he represents the empire that won and demands total submission. The Jew, in turn, carries the weight of daily oppression.

![Messala photo](https://blog.univervideo.com/imagens/strapi-e18a80a4f24d57ba.jpg)

*| Rômulo Weber plays Messala.*

**The breaking point**

Over time, the pressure on **Messala** intensifies. As a Roman officer, he is constantly placed in situations requiring proof of complete loyalty to the Empire—above any personal bond or childhood friendship. For him, a man's worth is measured by the power he gains.

**Judah**, in turn, suffers constant humiliation. Even as a prince, to the Romans he merely possesses a title that makes no difference, since he remains a captive of Rome—someone who will never be treated as an equal before imperial power.

![Judah photo](https://blog.univervideo.com/imagens/strapi-e45c36effa221ae0.jpg)

*| Vinícius Redd plays Judah.*

One of the questions raised by the story of **Ben-Hur** is: how long can a friendship survive when one side oppresses and the other suffers the consequences?

*Ben-Hur* | In October 🐴