[An ancient "table" excavated in the building] bears the ancient Greek inscription for synagogue and has been named one of the world's oldest synagogues and the oldest synagogue outside Israel by experts. ...Regarding the inscription, The Greek Reporter has more in World’s Oldest Synagogue Outside Israel Discovered in Russia (Abdul Moeed):The archaeologists initially thought they had discovered an ancient Christian church, but as they dug deeper they discovered objects with Jewish symbols. Among other things, the remains of three remarkable marble menorahs and a stone lid of a charity box were uncovered. The building, with a total area of 140 square meters, included two rooms: a prayer hall, with three rows of benches, a platform, and a small room. The second room was probably used for meals and community meetings.
Next to the synagogue was a winery, where kosher wine was made, and a building where food for community meals was stored. There was also a garden behind the building which probably served as the mikveh. The archaeologists also located clay barrels for irrigation, residential buildings, and a water supply system. Copper coins were discovered in excavations on the floor of the synagogue. Some of them were placed near the platform and the benches. Additional coins were found near the lid of the charity donation box. A total of 58 copper coins were found at the site.
One tablet features the Greek word “synagein,” which means synagogue, leading experts to recognize it as one of the oldest synagogues ever discovered and the oldest outside Israel.The Greek word synagein (συναγειν) is an infinitive meaning "to gather together, assemble." It does not mean "synagogue." It could fit into a Jewish, Christian, or other context. That said, the material culture assemblage does sound Jewish, the menorahs especially.
What are these "tables" or "tablets?" A decorated stone table of comparable date was excavated several years ago near Beit El. But we also know of inscribed stone plaques or tablets that may have been associated with synagogues. The Samaritan decalogue is one example. There is also the Kursi inscription and an inscribed plaque excavated in Turkey. But all of these are from late antiquity, so later than this object. Either "table" or "tablet" seems possible with current information. A photo would be nice.
We look forward to hearing more about this important site in Phanagoria.
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