Image Details

Amihai Mazar and Nava Panitz-Cohen

PRAYING FOR HONEY. Unearthed near Rehov’s apiary—along with other ritual items—this altar might have been used in the context of the beekeeping industry. Measuring 1.5 feet high, this altar was constructed haphazardly, with scant attention to detail. Offerings were placed, and possibly burned, atop its fourhorned, palm branch-incised roof. Signs of burning that appear on other parts of the altar may reflect an intense fire in the surrounding building. The altar resembles a city gate, the significance of which remains unknown.