Synagogue Complete

ID: 169

Building type: basilical synagogue

Context:

rural

Site:

Inscriptions:

263

Description:

The synagogue at Kafr Misr evolved through three principal phases. Phase I can likely be placed between the third century CE and the end of the fourth, Phase II operated during the fourth and early fifth centuries CE, and Phase III represents the final arrangement, in use from the fifth into the early seventh century CE. Phase I occupied a rectangular structure measuring approximately 13.50 by 17.50 meters. Within this space, eight square column bases were set in two parallel rows aligned north–south. The interior was fitted with bench seating along all four walls and had a floor composed of flagstones and plaster. The building appears to have included two doorways, a bema, and a drainage channel. Ceramic finds recovered from the building included sherds as early as the first century CE, although no architectural remains from that date could be associated with the synagogue at this stage. The second phase largely retained the external aspect of the earlier construction. Internally, however, a permanent installation for the Torah ark was introduced, possibly screened by a curtain (parokhet) separating it from the congregational hall. During this period the earlier plastered flooring was replaced by mosaic. Portions of Phase II were preserved on the northern side of the central area of the assembly and were incorporated into the mosaic pavement of the final phase. In Phase III the complex assumed its definitive form. An apse of limestone and mortar, about 2.80 meters in internal diameter, was constructed on the southern side. The eastern entrance was sealed, and a new door, approximately 0.85 meters wide, was opened in the western wall, supplementing the principal entrance on the north. The central zone of the hall received a new mosaic floor, now only partially preserved; subsequent building activity heavily damaged all mosaic pavements. Near the bema, a mosaic panel measuring roughly 1.20 by 4.30 meters combined floral ornament, Jewish symbols, and fragments of an Aramaic inscription. Further reading: - Milson, D.W. 2007. Art and Architecture of the Synagogue in Late Antique Palestine. In the Shadow of the Church, Leiden, 411–416. - Onn, A. 1994. The Ancient Synagogue at Kafr Misr, Atiqot 25, 117–134. - https://synagogues.kinneret.ac.il/synagogues/misr/