Jewish prince Judah Ben-Hur (Heston), a successful and wealthy merchant who lives in Jerusalem. But the arrival of the Roman army in the region, the announcement of a major political change. Among them is the important military commander and an old family friend Ben-Hur, Messala (Boyd). At first Judah and Messala greeted as long-lost brothers, but the harmony does not last long. Their political differences and richness of Judah are the first cause of disputes between Messale and Jude.

During the parade, led by the governor, breaks off the tile with the house of Judah and almost kills the governor. Messala, although certain of the innocence of Judah, Judah condemned to exile and hard work on the Roman galleys and his mother and sister thrown in jail. A furious Ben-Hur swears revenge.