Cynics might say Israeli archaeologists always “pull out” discoveries right before the holidays (just like last summer when we found a First Temple destruction clay sealing right before Tisha B’Av). But it turns out reality beats any timing!This past Sunday, Arbel Monnickendam and his family came to sift soil from the Temple Mount (don’t worry, we have a protected space), and they found a fragment of a clay sealings from the First Temple period. The sealing features distinct Egyptian symbols, including a winged sun (a symbol of rule under divine protection) and parts of a cartouche (an oval frame enclosing Egyptian names).
We can’t publish more details or a closeup photo just yet, as the artifact requires proper scientific research and publication before being presented to the wider public. But because of the amazing timing right before Passover night, we just had to share our excitement with you!
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