Magdala Synagogue Table

This limestone “table” was found in the central area of the hall of the Magdala synagogue. The table measures approximately 24 × 20 × 16 inches (60 × 50 × 40 cm) and stands on four short legs. The Magdala synagogue is the only early Roman synagogue to have religious iconography, as evidenced in the designs carved in relief on the sides and top of the table. On the front, a menorah stands on a podium flanked by two amphorae (oil jugs). These are set within an arch supported on two columns. On the sides, three sheaves of wheat and a lamp are set within an arcade. The back has a pair of rosettes or wheels, which are also placed within separate arches. The top is carved with a large rosette flanked by two palm trees, with petals and other shapes filling in the blank space. Some scholars interpret these images as symbolic representations of the holy of holies and the divine chariot (assuming the motifs at the back are wheels rather than rosettes). The function of the table is debated. Some propose that it was used as a base for a wooden table for Torah reading.