The Sepphoris synagogue : deciphering an ancient message through its archaeological and socio-historical contexts

xiv, 360 pages : illustrations (some colour) ; 32 cm. 'The present volume is the final excavation report of the Sepphoris synagogue. This comprehensive and multifaceted study presents a full description and thorough analysis of the archaeological data (architecture, mosaics, epigraphy, and small finds) as well as an extensive discussion of the evidence in its socio-historical context. The author maintains that the message in the central mosaic carpet of the prayer hall focuses on the main themes characterizing the Judaeo-Christian controversy at the time and, via its illustrative biblical motifs, serves as a response in which the Jews claim that they are are the Chosen People.'.