A temple ritual in Hierapolis (1)

Text
In the Syrian sources, “Sign” appears as Simi, the daughter of Hadad.

pseudo-Lucian, De Dea Syria 33:
Between the two statues (of the god and goddess) stands another golden image, not at all like the other statues. It does not have its own particular character, but it bears the qualities of the other gods. It is called “Sign” (σημήϊον) by the Assyrians themselves, and they have not given it any particular name, nor do they speak of its origin or form. Some attribute it to Dionysus, others to Deucalion, still others to Semiramis. Indeed, on its head stands a golden dove. For this reason, then, they say that this “Sign” belongs to Semiramis. Twice each year the statue journeys to the sea to fetch the water which I mentioned previously.

Source (list of abbreviations) (source links will open in a new browser window)
pseudo-Lucian, De Dea Syria 33

Bibliography

Amar Annus

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