Guide
Archisynagōgos and Archisynagōgissa
1st–6th Centuries
Related Primary Sources
Primary Source
Latin Inscription on Marble Plaque from Ostia, Italy
For Plotius Fortunatus the archisynagogos. Plotius Ampliatus, Secundinus [and] Secunda made [the monument] . . . , and Ofilia Basilia for her well-deserving husband.
Source:…
Primary Source
Greek Inscriptions from Rome
Here lies Euphrasis, archisynagogos, who lived a good life (?).
Here lies Poly . . . nis, archisynagogos of the synagogue of the Vernaclians, aged 53. In peace his sleep.…
Primary Source
Greek Inscription on Marble Tablet from Smyrna, Asia Minor
Rufina, a Jewess, head of the synagogue [archisynagōgos], built this tomb for her freed slaves and the slaves raised in her house. No one else has the right to bury anyone (here). If someone should…
Primary Source
Rufina Inscription, Smyrna
This Greek inscription from Smyrna, Asia Minor, refers to a woman named Rufina as the head of the synagogue, perhaps indicating that women could function as Jewish religious and community leaders…
Primary Source
Latin Inscription from Rome
To the well-deserving Stafylus, archon and archisynagogus, who held all the honours. Restituta his wife made (the monument). In peace your sleep.
Source: CIJ 1.265
Primary Source
Latin Inscription on Marble Tablet from Capua, Italy
Publius (?) Alfius Juda the archon (and) archisynagogos, who lived 70 years 7 months 10 days. Alfia Soteris, with whom he lived 48 years, made (the monument) for her incomparable, well-deserving…
Related Guide
Leadership of the Early Synagogue
1st–7th Centuries