New mosaic found at Huqoq synagogue

Detail of dead Philistine soldier in the Samson Carrying the Gate of Gaza mosaic,

The excavations in Huqoq, Israel at a 5th century synagogue have revealed numerous mosaics and other finds. Most recently, a mosaic related to the Samson story has been discovered. Below are some of the other mosaics and historically significant finds:

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  • A Hebrew inscription surrounded by human figures, animals and mythological creatures including putti, or cupids. 
  • The first non-biblical story ever found decorating an ancient synagogue — perhaps the legendary meeting between Alexander the Great and the Jewish high priest. 
  • A panel depicting two of the spies sent by Moses to explore Canaan carrying a pole with a cluster of grapes, labeled “a pole between two” from Numbers 13:23.
  • Another panel showing a man leading an animal on a rope accompanied by the inscription “a small child shall lead them” (Isaiah 11:6). 
  • Figures of animals identified by an Aramaic inscription as the four beasts representing four kingdoms in the book of Daniel, chapter 7. 
  • A large panel in the northwest aisle depicting Elim, the spot where the Israelites camped by 12 springs and 70 date palms after departing Egypt and wandering in the wilderness without water referenced in Exodus 15:27. 
  • A portrayal of Noah’s Ark. 
  • The parting of the Red Sea. 
  • A Helios-zodiac cycle. 
  • Jonah being swallowed by three successive fish. 
  • The building of the Tower of Babel. 

   

https://www.unc.edu/posts/2023/07/10/unc-chapel-hill-led-archaeological-dig-in-galilee-uncovers-mosaics-of-samson-and-commemorative-inscriptions/