When Is a Menorah a “Menorah”? Text and Realia from Asia Minor

Abstract Menorahs found at sites in Asia Minor have been a primary indicator of the presence of Jewish communities in its cities. Menorahs were found in all three of the structures identified as synagogues in Turkey. This article addresses the following question: When is a menorah a “menorah”? It first discusses a translation conundrum related to a well-known text addressed to Jesus’ followers in seven cities in western Asia Minor by John, the author of Revelation. It then provides an extended discussion regarding menorahs and symbols identified as menorahs at sites in Rough Cilicia in southeastern Asia Minor. Finally, it assesses each one so as to determine whether it could properly considered a menorah.