An Ancient Gift The Greek Inscription at The Synagogue in Capernaum

An Ancient Gift

The Greek Inscription at The Synagogue in Capernaum

Nestled along the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee lie the ruins of Capernaum, an ancient fishing village known as the home base of Jesus during much of His Galilean ministry. Among its most impressive features is the large limestone synagogue, built in the 4th or 5th century A.D. atop the foundation of an earlier structure—quite possibly the very synagogue mentioned in the Gospels.

One particular column in the synagogue bears a Greek inscription that gives us a glimpse into the lives and faith of those who worshiped there centuries ago. The text reads:

ΗΡΩΔΗΣ ΜΩΝΙ

ΜΟΥΚΑΙΑ ΙΟΥΣΤΟΣ

ΥΙΟΣ ΑΜΑ ΤΟΙΣ

ΤΕΚΝΟΙΣ ΕΚΤΙ

ΣΑΝ ΤΟΝ ΚΙΟΝΑ

Translated, it says:

"Herod, son of Justus of Moukaias, with his children, erected this column."

It’s a simple dedication, yet it speaks volumes.

Here we see a Jewish man, Herod (not from the Herodian royal family), making a lasting contribution to the house of worship in his community. His name, along with those of his father Justus and his children, is etched into stone—not out of pride, but as a testimony to their faith and generosity. The use of Greek, the common language of the Eastern Roman Empire, reflects the cultural blend of Jewish tradition and Greco-Roman influence in Galilee during that era.

Why does this matter?

It matters because it connects us to real people who walked where Jesus walked—people who loved their faith community enough to leave their mark on it. This inscription is not just history; it’s a spiritual echo. Herod and his family participated in something larger than themselves. Just like we do when we give, serve, and worship together in our own churches today.

And think of this: it’s possible that this very synagogue was built over the one where Jesus taught, healed, and proclaimed the Kingdom of God. To stand in that place and read a name carved into stone reminds us that faith has always been about real people, real places, and real lives changed by God.

May we, too, leave a legacy of faithfulness.

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