#Biblical Archaeology

[girlactionfigure]

Rebel Jewish coin dating to anti-Roman revolt discovered in Israel.

A rare half-shekel coin dug up in the Ein Gedi nature reserve was inscribed with the words “The Holy Jerusalem” in Hebrew.

The coin, dated to 66/67 CE when the Second Temple was destroyed in Jerusalem, was found in the Judean Desert Survey led by the Israel Antiquities Authority together with the Heritage Ministry and the staff officer of the Civil Administration Archaeology Unit in Judea and Samaria carried out over the last six years with the aim of retrieving these ancient finds before the antiquity looters. 

Recently, in the course of examining every cave and crack in the rock, Israel Antiquities Authority inspectors reached a cliff in a wadi near En Gedi when they came across the coin on the ground at the entrance of one of the caves.

More here: Source

[hebrewbyinbal]

As a girl from the bustling streets of Tel Aviv, each visit to the Old City of Jerusalem felt like stepping into a magical, distant land. The contrast couldn't be more profound—swapping the contemporary for the timeless, the familiar for the mystical. Despite the geographical proximity, arriving in Jerusalem always felt like going on an enchanting vacation abroad, where each corner held a story older than time itself.

Navigating the narrow, winding alleyways of the Old City is an adventure in its own right. I could never quite map its ancient contours in my mind, finding myself delightfully lost more times than I could count. But being lost in Jerusalem was always an invitation to discover hidden courtyards and secret passages, each turn revealing a piece of history or a burst of everyday life that seemed to exist in a bubble away from the rest of the world.

The charm of the Old City lies not just in its monuments but in its atmosphere. The air buzzes with the mingling scents of spices, freshly baked bread, and the faint hint of incense drifting from the doorways of centuries-old churches. The soundscape is just as rich, with the calls to prayer echoing off the stone walls, blending with the chatter of shopkeepers and the shuffle of pilgrims' feet.

One of my most cherished memories is the time I visited during the Light Festival. As night fell, the Old City transformed before our eyes. The ancient stones, which had witnessed the passage of millennia, were suddenly awash with vibrant colors and patterns. Light installations lit up the darkened alleys, turning paths into mysterious, glowing labyrinths. Walking with friends, we were all but spellbound. The majesty of it all was overwhelming, as if the city itself had sprung to life, whispering ancient secrets in the language of light.

Jerusalem, with its layers of history, faith, and culture, always leaves me with a sense of wonder, a reminder of the endless stories it holds, waiting to be rediscovered with every visit.

[peacefuldwellings]

[freebiblestudies]

Biblical Archaeology Lesson 02: The New Testament

In our previous study, we examined ten archaeological discoveries that demonstrated the historical accuracy of the Old Testament.  Today, we will examine ten archaeological finds with relevance to the New Testament.

Let’s read together Acts 13:6-12.

Sergius Paulus inscription

A Roman proconsul was a governor or military commander of a province.  Sergius was the proconsul of Cyprus under the reign of Claudius Caesar from 45 to 50 AD.  A stone with a Greek inscription dating to 54 AD was found in northern Cypress.  The inscription referred to an event that happened earlier than 54 AD and referenced a “proconsul Paulus.”  It is very likely this inscription is speaking of the same Sergius Paulus who encountered Paul the Apostle in Paphos.

Let’s read together John 9:1-7.

Pool of Siloam

The pool of Siloam was a freshwater reservoir in the time of Jesus.  It was at this pool where Jesus miraculously cured a man of his blindness.  It was accidentally discovered in 2004 by workers doing sewage pipe maintenance in the old city of Jerusalem.  The discovery of the pool of Siloam shows that the book of John is not a purely theological book.  Rather, it is grounded in history.

Let’s read together Acts 19:22; Romans 16:23; and 2 Timothy 4:20..

Erastus inscription

A stone with a Latin inscription dating around 50 AD was found in Corinth.  The inscription translated in English reads: “Erastus in return for hisa aedileship laid (the pavement) at his own expense.”  (An aedile was a Roman magistrate in charge of public works.)  This discovery points to the historicity of Erastus, an evangelist and a socially elite individual mentioned by Paul the Apostle.

Let’s read together Matthew 26:3 and John 18:13-14.

Caiaphas ossuary

An ossuary with the engraving “Joseph son of Caiaphas” was discovered in a burial cave in the old city of Jerusalem.  The skeletal remains inside the ossuary were of a 50 year old.  This ossuary is very likely the remains of the priest who presided over the trial of Jesus.

Let’s read together Acts 21:27-30 and Ephesians 2:14.

Temple warning inscription

The Jewish historian Josephus wrote of a partition in the Jewish temple with a stone inscription forbidding foreigners from entering the temple upon penalty of death.  A complete stone inscription with such a warning was found in Jerusalem in 1871.  Interestingly, there were traces of red paint in the stone inscription, meaning it was meant to be very visible to people.

This inscription correlates with the story in Acts 21:28-30 where the Jews accused Paul of bringing in Greeks into the temple and defiling it.  Paul may have also referred to this barrier in Ephesians 2:14.

Let’s read together Leviticus 23:24 and Matthew 24:1-2.

Trumpeting place inscription

A stone with the Hebrew inscription “to the place of trumpeting” was discovered in Jerusalem, dating to the first century.  It is thought this stone was atop the southwest corner of the temple of Jerusalem before it was cast down.  This is evidence for the existence of the second temple of Jerusalem, which was destroyed in 70 AD.

Let’s read together Matthew 28:11-13.

Nazareth inscription

This stone inscription contains an edict from Caesar proclaiming the death penalty for those caught stealing bodies from tombs.  This is a rather unusual decree as grave robbers normally would steal items from tombs, but not the bodies.

It is quite possible this inscription was written by Claudius Caesar in response to hearing Christians sharing the story of Jesus’ resurrection.  Claudius would have considered Christians a dangerous anti-Roman movement.

Let’s read together Acts 18:12.

Gallio inscription

This is a collection of nine stone fragments of a letter written by Claudius Caesar in 52 AD.  The Gallio inscription was found in Delphi, Greece, which is about 50 miles northwest of Corinth.  This inscription makes mention of Junius Gallio being proconsul of Achaia.  Gallio only served as proconsul from 51 to 52 AD.  The Gallio inscription is a fixed marker that allows us to date Paul’s ministry.

Let’s read together Matthew 27:1-24 and Mark 15:1-15.

Pilate stone

Pontius Pilate was a Roman prefect governing Judea from 26 to 34 AD.  He is mentioned by the historians Josephus, Tacitus, and Philo in addition to the Gospels.  The Pilate stone confirms the historicity of Pontius Pilate.

Let’s read together John 18:31-33.

P52 fragment of John 18:31-33

This is a papyrus fragment dating to 125 to 175 AD.  This is the oldest known fragment of the New Testament Gospels.  The significance of this fragment is that it was written within 100 years of the events of the Gospels.

There has not been an archaeological find that contradicts the Bible.  The historical events recorded in the New Testament are factual.  The archaeological discoveries mentioned in this lesson should increase our trust in the Bible.

Friend, will you trust what the Bible says about historical things?  Will you trust what the Bible says about spiritual things?

[christiangittingsblog]

Biblical artefact described as 'Israel's most important archaeological find EVER' to go on display in US

// Interesting article about the Tel Dan Stele, the earliest known archaeological evidence of King David

[mindfulldsliving]

Archaeology and the Book of Mormon: Fuente Magna Bowl - A Possible Link Between Ancient Sumaria to the Jaredites

The potential discovery of the Fuente Magna bowl offers the tantalizing prospect of linking Ancient Sumaria and the Jaredites of the Book of Mormon. This connection could reshape historical narratives and validate religious beliefs.

Imagine finding artifacts, inscriptions, or other tangible proof showing that these two cultures interacted or that the Jaredites’ civilization truly existed. Such evidence would not just validate the historical claims of the Book of Mormon but also force a reevaluation of how we study and understand ancient civilizations. Critics would have to confront the possibility that they were wrong, and…

[if-you-fan-a-fire]

"BIBLE CONFIRMED BY RECENT FINDS EXPERT BELIEVES," Niagara Falls Review. May 9, 1934. Page 2. ---- Authority says "Higher critics" and their conclusions being discredited ---- SECRETS ARE BARED ---- By Thomas T. Champion, Canadian Press Staff Writer LONDON, May 9 (CP) - Sir Charles Marston, authority on Biblical archaeology, speaking to the Victoria Institute at Westminster, declared the whole trend of Biblical archaeology tended to confirm the Old Testament narrative.

During the past eight years the study and classification of the pot sherds or broken pieces of earthenware with which the ancient sites in Bible lands are littered and impregnated, has enabled excavators to assign dates to the sites and to the various strata of occupation lying beneath them.

"The knowledge thus acquired was used by Professor Garstang in his excavations of Jericho," Sir Charles said. He assigned a date of about 1400 B.C. for the ruins of the city destroyed by Joshua. The wall fallen flat outwards because of an earthquake and the burnt but untouched foodstuffs inside the houses and storehouses testified to the substantial correctness of the Bible narrative.

"It had been very generally assumed that the Exodus from Egypt took place during the reign of the Pharaoh Menepthah, about 1220 B.C. Between that and Garstang's date of 1400 B.C. there was a discrepancy of more than 200 years. So serious doubts began to be cast on the pottery dating."

But the cemetery, or necropolis, in which the inhabitants of Jericho buried their dead, was discovered, and in the tombs Professor Garstang found quantities of unbroken pottery. There were Egyptian Pharaohs whose dates were known. This dated pottery verified the dates of the broken pottery in the burnt city.

Sir Charles said the so-called higher criticism and its conclusions were becoming discredited. How desperate the position has become," he added, "may be judged from the attempt of some authorities who still cling to its conclusions to place Moses after Joshua."

[biblicalarchaeology1]

Unveiling the Ancient Landscape: Exploring the Kingdom of David Map

In the realm of biblical archaeology, few discoveries evoke as much intrigue and fascination as the Kingdom of David map. This ancient cartographic treasure offers a captivating glimpse into the geographical landscape of ancient Israel, shedding light on the territories and landmarks that once defined the legendary kingdom of King David. The map not only serves as a historical artifact but also as a vital tool for scholars and enthusiasts alike, offering invaluable insights into the political, social, and religious dynamics of the time.

Central to the Kingdom of David map is Kiriath Jearim, a significant site mentioned numerous times in the Hebrew Bible. Located on the outskirts of Jerusalem, this ancient city played a pivotal role in the biblical narrative, serving as a religious center and a strategic stronghold. Its inclusion on the map underscores its importance in the context of David's kingdom, providing valuable geographical context to biblical accounts.

As we traverse the intricacies of the map, other notable locations come into focus, each bearing its own historical significance. From the map of Babylon in the Bible, a symbol of captivity and exile, to the map of Haran, a pivotal stop in the journey of Abraham, these landmarks offer a multi-dimensional understanding of the biblical narrative. They serve as tangible reminders of the complex tapestry of events that shaped the ancient Near East and influenced the course of history.

One of the striking features of the Kingdom of David map is its depiction of natural boundaries and waterways, such as the map of the Arnon River. These geographical elements not only delineated territorial borders but also influenced trade, migration, and warfare. By analyzing these features in conjunction with historical texts, scholars can reconstruct the geopolitical landscape of David's kingdom with greater precision, unraveling the mysteries of the past.

Moreover, the Kingdom of David map serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of biblical archaeology, offering a tangible connection to ancient civilizations and their stories. It provides a platform for further exploration and research, inviting scholars and enthusiasts to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of the biblical world.

In conclusion, the Kingdom of David map stands as a testament to the power of archaeology to illuminate the past. Its intricate details and historical significance offer invaluable insights into the world of ancient Israel, enriching our understanding of biblical narratives and cultural landscapes. As we continue to unravel its mysteries, the map remains a beacon of discovery, guiding us through the annals of history with each new revelation.

Source URL: https://biblicalarchaeology1.blogspot.com/2024/05/exploring-rich-history-of-jezreel.html

[ufosightingsfootage]

Edmonton Alberta Video Footage of Apocalypse Sounds

The hum, the apocalyptic sounds or trumpet sounds heard around the world. Try Edmonton Alberta Canada and it's more bizarre than ever. #strange #ufo #apocalypse #sounds #thehum #biblical #bible

[biblenewsprophecy]

[peacefuldwellings]

[freebiblestudies]

Biblical Archaeology Lesson 01: The Old Testament

There are many skeptics who believe the Bible is a book of legends, myths, and even fairy tales.  However, the Bible speaks of real people, real places, and real historical events.  How can we be so sure of this?  The answer lies in biblical archaeology.

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, archaeology is “the scientific study of material remains (such as tools, pottery, jewelry, stone walls, and monuments) of past human life and activities.  Biblical archaeology is a historical discipline that uses relevant archaeological discoveries to shed light on the historical and cultural setting of the Bible.

Let’s examine ten fascinating archaeological discoveries with relevance to the Old Testament of the Bible.

Let’s read together 2 Kings 17:5-23.

The Assyrian Limmu List (also known as the Assyrian Eponym List)

The Assyrian had devised a calendar system where they named each year after a prominent Assyrian official.  The Limmu List is a clay tablet with a list of those names in chronological order, dealing with years 858 to 699 BC.  The Limmu List is important because it establishes the chronology of Assyrian kings, which can be used to cross-reference and reconstruct the chronology of the kings of Israel.

Let’s read together 1 Kings 16:29-33.

Kurkh Monolith of Shalmaneser III

This is an Akkadian inscription on limestone.  It speaks of the military campaigns of the Assyrian King Shalmaneser III.  One campaign of note is the battle of Qarqar in 853 BC.  There is a reference to “Ahab the Israelite.”  This may be a reference to king Ahab of Israel who reigned from 874 to 853 BC.

Let’s read together Daniel 1:7; 2:49; 3:12-30; 2 Kings 25:8-9; and Jeremiah 39:9-14; 52:12-26.  

Nebuchadnezzar II prism

This is an eight-sided clay cylinder with inscriptions on each column (side).  The prism has an inscription telling of its completion in 598 BC.  Only six columns are preserved.  Column six is a list of Babylonian officials.  Nergal-Sharezer and Nebuzaran, two Babylonian officials mentioned in the Bible are on this list.  More notably this list also has the names of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, the Babylonian names of Daniel’s friends Hananiah, Azariah, and Mishael!

Let’s read together Numbers 21:29; 2 Kings 3:4-5; and Jeremiah 48:46.

Moabite Stone (also known as the Mesha Stele)

This is a stone inscription written by Mesha king of Moab around 840-860 BC.  It confirms the Moabites worshiped the god Chemosh. It also mentions Mesha winning a victory over Omri, king of Israel.

Let’s read together 2 Chronicles 36:22-23 and Ezra 1:1-8.

Cyrus Cylinder

This clay cylinder is a propaganda account of Cyrus’ conquest of Babylon created around 539 BC.  In addition to establishing Persian rule, the Cyrus cylinder proclaims deported people may return to their homelands.  This proclamation gives credence to the Bible’s claim the people of Israel were allowed by Cyrus to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple.

Let’s read together 2 Kings 24:8-20.

Jerusalem Chronicle

This describes the history of the kings of Babylon from 605 to 594 BC.  It records the first deportation of the Jews in 605 BC.  It also mentions the second deportation of the Jews in 597 BC, the destruction of the Jewish temple, the capture of Jehoiachin, and the appointment of Zedekiah.

Let’s read together 2 Kings 18:13-25 and 2 Chronicles 32:9-10.

Lachish Relief

This is a gypsum wall panel relief dating to 700-681 BC.  It depicts Sennacherib’s victory over the kingdom of Judah at Lachish.  This relief is significant in that the kingdom of Judah was formidable enough for Sennacherib to commission the relief in the first place.  Secondly, it is telling that the relief does not depict the defeat of Jursalem, meaning Sennacherib never conquered it, just as the Bible declares in 2 Kings chapter 18 and 19.

Let’s read together 2 Samuel 2:1-4; 5:3 and 2 Kings 8:25-29.

Tel Dan Stele

This stele was erected by an Aramaic king dating to approximately 900-801 BC.  The inscription boasts of the king’s victory of “the king of Israel” and “the king of the house of David.”  The significance of the Tel Dan stele is that it testifies to the historicity of King David in the Bible.

Let’s read together Psalm 12:6-7.

The Dead Sea Scrolls

This is the most well-known biblical archaeology discovery.  Fragments of all the books of the Bible (except for the book of Esther) have been found in the caves of Qumran in Israel.  These fragments date from roughly 250 BC to 68 AD. The Dead Sea Scrolls prove that the Old Testament we read today is the same Old Testament Jesus read over 2000 years ago.

Let’s read together Numbers 6:24-26.

Ketef Hinnom Silver Scroll

This is the oldest record of the Scriptures.  It records the blessing in Numbers 6:24-26.  The Ketef Hinnom scroll predates the Dead Sea scrolls by hundreds of years, dating to approximately 600 BC.

There are so many more archaeological findings of relevance to the Old Testament.  If you are interested, you can look up the Obelisk of Shalmaneser III, the Merneptah victory stele, Hezekiah’s tunnel inscription, the Lachish Letters, the Nabonidus Cylinder, the Berlin Pedestal, and the palace of Sargon.

These biblical archaeological discoveries show that the Bible is not a book of legends, myths, and fairy tales.  These archaeological finds show that we can trust the Bible when it speaks of historical things.  If we can trust what the Bible says about historical things, then we can trust what it says about spiritual things.

Friend, are you willing to put your trust in the Bible?

[mt1820today]

Revealing the Buried Treasures of the Temple Mount