Exhibit 7a- “Zikainim” Inscription. This is part of a plaque from the Bais HaMikdash. Most archaeologists think that the broken word that is visible is “zikainim,” or elders. The word “elders” usually refers to the scholarly leaders, more specifically the members of the Sanhedrin. The Gemorah (Yoma 18b) also refers to the “elders of the Priesthood.”
Exhibit 7b- More Inscriptions- The word “bayis/bais,” house of, is clearly visible.
