Israel, Sepphoris(Tzippori) Ancient Synagogue

The synagogue appears to have been built in the first half of the fifth century. It was located on the northern side of the city, not far from the city center. Measuring 20.7 meters long and 8 meters wide, it is the narrowest ancient synagogue uncovered in the Land of Israel. The bimah was located in the western wall, not oriented towards Jerusalem as in other synagogues of that era. The Mishna describes Sepphoris as having had 18 synagogues at the time of the funeral of Rabbi Judah haNasi in the late second century CE. The mosaic floor is divided into seven parts. Near the entrance is a scene showing the angels visiting Sarah. The next section shows the binding of Isaac. There is a large Zodiac with the names of the months written in Hebrew. Helios sits in the middle, in his sun chariot. Next, there is a row of three panels depicting the offerings in the Temple at Jerusalem, including the “tamid” sacrifice, the showbread and the basket of first fruits.