The Ostracon
Elah Fortress in Khirbet Qeiyafa
(Where it was found)
By Brianna Howell An Israeli Archaeologist recently found a piece of pottery with text on it that dates as far back as 3000 years. This shard of pottery is about 6 square inches and contains 5 lines of text. Although the archaeologists cannot yet translate the text in its entirety, they are able to decipher such words as 'judge', 'slave' and 'king'. Because of these words, the archaeologists believe that this 'ostracon' is some sort of legal document. If this is true, this would be the first to provide such insight to Hebrew law, society and beliefs. The ostracon was found in the Elah Fortress in Khirbet Qeiyafa (20 miles SW of Jeruselum). It is where the Bible descibes the battle between David and Golliath. Only 4% of this Fortress has been excavated so far and it is believed that many more artifacts will be found. Archaeologists believe this ostracon as well as the other artifacts found in the Fortress would help to, "create a meeting point between mythology and history." |
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