The hosts discuss the top 10 archaeological discoveries of 2023 related to the Bible, including the Hittites, the location of Sinai, and the preservation of the archaeological site of Hatushah. They also explore the misuse of archaeology in apologetics and the flood stories found in ancient civilizations. Lastly, they discuss the recent discovery of a well-preserved middle bronze building/fortress at Tel Shimeron in Israel.
The discovery of a tablet with the previously unknown language of Kalashma sheds light on the Hittite's interest in preserving diverse languages beyond their own.
The stela containing the oldest mention of Sinai predates the Israelites' presence in the region, highlighting the early recognition of its significance and providing insights into wider historical and cultural connections in the ancient Near East.
Deep dives
The Discovery of the Kalashma Language at Hatushah
At the site of Hatushah, the capital of the Hittite kingdom, an excavation unearthed a tablet with a previously unknown language called Kalashma. This discovery is significant as it provides insight into the ancient cultures and literature of the Hittites, revealing their interest in preserving languages beyond their own.
The Earliest Reference to Sinai
A stela from the 11th dynasty of Egypt was found, containing the oldest mention of the region of Sinai. This reference, dating back to around 2150 to 1990 BC, predates the Israelites' presence in the region. It sheds light on the early knowledge and recognition of Sinai, which is geographically linked to the biblical accounts and offers insights into the wider historical and cultural connections in the ancient Near East.
The Impressive Middle Bronze Age Building at Tel Shimron
Tel Shimron in the Jezreel Valley revealed the remains of a remarkable mud-brick building from the Middle Bronze Age. The well-preserved structure, covering a short lifespan before being buried, showcases advanced construction techniques and contains significant archaeological finds, such as seven cupped bowls. This discovery provides valuable evidence of the importance and prosperity of the region during the period of the Canaanites.
Summary of the Bronze Age Discoveries
These three discoveries from the Bronze Age shed light on various aspects of the biblical world. The Kalashma language tablet reveals the Hittite interest in preserving diverse languages. The earliest reference to Sinai indicates early recognition of the region's significance before the Israelites. The Middle Bronze Age building at Tel Shimron highlights the prosperity and advanced construction techniques of the Canaanite period.
Episode: In this three-part series - Chris and Kyle discuss the year’s top ten archaeological discoveries and stories related to the Bible. Part 1 discusses the most important finds related to the Bronze Age. We talk Hittites, the location and identification of Sinai, and much more!
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Photo Attribution: The Lion Gate at Hattusa - Photo by Carole Raddato from FRANKFURT, Germany - The Lion Gate flanked by two towers, located at the southwest of the city, the lions were put at the entrance of the city to ward off evil, Hattusa, capital of the Hittite Empire, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=123588439
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