The temple of the Syrian Goddess (1)

Text
pseudo-Lucian, De Dea Syria 9-10:
These then are the ancient and great sanctuaries in Syria. But even if they are like this, it seems to me that none of them is greater than those in the Holy City, nor could any other temple be more sacred nor any other region more holy. In the temple are many expensive artifacts and ancient offerings, many marvelous things and statues befitting the gods. Moreover, gods are readily manifest to the inhabitants. For the statues among them sweat and move about and give oracles, and a shouting often occurs in the temple when the sanctuary is locked, and many have heard it. Certainly in regards to wealth it is foremost among the places which I know about. For many treasures come to them from Arabia, Phoenicia, and Babylonia and still more from Cappadocia. The Assyrians as well as the Cilicians bring some. I saw also what is secretly stored in the temple, much clothing and other items separated into silver or gold. For in the matter of feasts and festivals, among no other people have so many been designated.

Source (list of abbreviations) (source links will open in a new browser window)
pseudo-Lucian, De Dea Syria 9-10

Bibliography

Amar Annus

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