Synagogue Panel

View of the sixth and seventh panels of the synagogue floor.

The sixth panel is divided into three "windows."  In both the right and left windows are representations of the menorah (seven-branched candelabra; with flames on them! and notice the tripod bases).  To the left of them are representations of the four species associated with the Festival of Succoth (fall of the year).  To the right of the menorahs are representations of the ram's horn (shofar) and tongs used to manipulate the coals on the altars.

The major portion of the central "window" is taken up with a representation of the "ark" in which the Torah scrolls were kept.  This "ark" has a closed two-part door, each part of which is composed of three small panels.   Below the "ark" is a representation of the incense shovel that was used in conjunction of both the tabernacle and the temple.

In the top, seventh, panel a central circular garland donor inscription (partially preserved, in Greek) is flanked (right and left) by two lions, both of which have their front paws on the heads of bulls.

Beyond the seventh panel, in the extreme upper left of the image, are modern stones that have been placed where the central platform (bema) of the synagogue would have been.

For a brief description of the synagogue at Sepphoris Click Here.