Zodiacs in Synagogues

Many tour groups have visited the site of Sepphoris 3.5 mi. north northwest of Nazareth and have marveled at the beautiful mosaic floor of the 5th century CE synagogue.

Is this purely a pagan symbol? Maybe, but if so, why are they found in numerous synagogue floors?

Walter Zanger’s article “Zodiac mosaics in ancient synagogues” examines all (including ones at Tiberias and Bet Alpha, etc.) of the examples found in Israel and proposes a very reasonable interpretation of them. This article is currently available free on the web site of the Biblical Archaeological Society.

The source of this article is quoted as the HolyLandPhotos’ Blog