In Jerusalem, an ancient seal with an important message was found, but the text has not been revealed.

Ancient Inscription from Jerusalem

In Jerusalem, archaeologists have discovered an Assyrian inscription shedding light on events described in the Old Testament. This find, dated 2700 years ago, was made near the Temple Mount.

On a tiny ceramic shard, only 2.5 centimeters, researchers from Bar-Ilan University deciphered Akkadian cuneiform. The inscription is likely a complaint from the Assyrian Empire about a delayed payment from the Kingdom of Judah.

Historical Context

The text mentions the payment deadline — the 1st day of the 11th month according to the Hebrew calendar. This may relate to events described in 2 Kings 18 and 19, when King Hezekiah was forced to pay tribute to the Assyrian king Sennacherib.

Dr. Peter Zilberg noted that despite its small size, the fragment has significant historical importance. It is part of a royal seal used to authenticate official documents, indicating interaction between Assyria and Judah.

Archaeological Discoveries and Their Significance

Dr. Anato Cohen-Weinberger from the Israel Antiquities Authority emphasized that the shard was traced to Assyria. Petrographic analysis showed that the composition of the ceramic matches the geology of the Tigris basin region.

Although the inscription does not quote a specific biblical passage, it provides evidence of interaction between Judah and the Assyrian Empire. Researchers note that the existence of such an official communication indicates tension in the relations between the two states.

This find is the first of its kind, opening new horizons for understanding ancient diplomatic relations.