Young Girl Unearths 3,800-Year-Old Canaanite Amulet During Family Outing

A young Israeli girl made an astonishing archaeological discovery during a recent family trip, unveiling a piece of history that dates back nearly four millennia.

The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) announced on Monday that three-year-old Ziv Nitzan found a Canaanite amulet dating back 3,800 years this past March. The Canaanites, mentioned in biblical texts, were the original inhabitants of the Levant and regarded as descendants of Noah’s grandson, Canaan.

A Family Adventure Turns Historic

Ziv and her family were exploring Tel Azeka, a prominent hill in the Judaean Foothills, when the significant discovery occurred. The tell marks the historical site of the ancient town of Azekah, which is famously referenced in the battle narrative between David and Goliath in 1 Samuel 17:1.

Omer Nitzan, Ziv’s sister, described the moment when Ziv stumbled upon the artifact. “As we walked along the path, Ziv bent down and picked up an unusual stone. After she cleaned the sand off, we noticed it looked different from the other stones surrounding it. I called my parents to come and see our incredible find,” she recounted excitedly.

An Archaeological Treasure

This remarkable find, dated to the Middle Bronze Age, was promptly reported to the IAA. According to Dr. Daphna Ben-Tor, the amulet is a scarab, which might have served as a seal or a protective charm.

Dr. Ben-Tor elaborated, stating, “Scarabs were commonly found in various settings, including graves, public buildings, and private homes. They often carry symbols and messages reflecting both religious beliefs and social status.”

The Significance of the Scarab

Images of the scarab show it in excellent condition, bearing the iconic shape of a dung beetle, an insect revered in Ancient Egypt. The IAA notes that the scarab symbolized renewal and rebirth due to its association with the lifecycle of the beetle.

The IAA stated, “The dung ball created by the beetle serves as a nest for its eggs, symbolizing new life emerging. In the Egyptian lexicon, the scarab’s name derives from the verb meaning to come into being, reflecting their belief in its representation of divine creation.”

A Recognition for Young Explorer

Ziv Nitzan was honored with a certificate of appreciation from the IAA for her remarkable discovery. Professor Oded Lipschits from Tel Aviv University, who has been excavating Tel Azekah for nearly 15 years, expressed gratitude for the find. He said, “Excavation findings reveal that Tel Azekah was one of the most significant cities in the Judean Lowlands during the Middle and Late Bronze Ages. The scarab unearthed by Ziv adds to the extensive list of Egyptian and Canaanite artifacts discovered here, evidencing the cultural interactions between Egypt and Canaan during that period.”

An Exhibition to Celebrate the Discovery

In a public statement, IAA Director Eli Escuido commended Ziv’s family for their incredible find. He announced plans to showcase the remarkable amulet to the public. “Thanks to Ziv, the artifact will be accessible for everyone to appreciate. In time for Passover, we will present the scarab in a special exhibition organized by the Israel Antiquities Authority at the Jay and Jeanie Schottenstein National Campus for the Archaeology of Israel, along with other significant findings from the Egyptian and Canaanite eras,” Escuido stated.

He elaborated that the exhibition will feature an impressive array of artifacts, including seals from ancient pharaohs, Egyptian statues, and ritual vessels. He invited everyone to join these public tours, promising a glimpse into the rich tapestry of cultural heritage preserved at the site.

Looking Towards the Future

This discovery illuminates the historical significance of Tel Azekah and its role in the ancient world. The artifacts recovered from this region underscore the close ties between Canaan and Egypt, shedding light on the social and cultural dynamics of the time. Such discoveries not only spark excitement among archaeologists and historians but also deepen public interest in ancient history and heritage.

As more archaeological explorations continue in the region, the potential for uncovering additional artifacts remains high. Each find represents a remarkable connection to our shared past, teaching us about the civilizations that once thrived in these ancient lands. Ziv Nitzan’s innocent curiosity transformed a family outing into a moment that will inspire generations to come.