Mesha Stele

Overview

The Mesha Stele, also known as the Moabite Stone, is a limestone inscription discovered in 1868 at Dhiban in modern-day Jordan, providing a crucial Moabite perspective on the political dynamics of the 9th century BCE Near East. The inscription, dating to approximately 850 BCE, was erected by King Mesha of Moab to commemorate his victory over the subjugating power of the Kingdom of Israel. The text details Moab's rebellion against Israelite domination and includes references to the 'House of David' (bytdwd), which has been the subject of scholarly debate regarding its interpretation. While some early scholars questioned the reading of this phrase, the consensus among modern researchers strongly supports the interpretation that 'House of David' refers to the dynastic house of King David, indicating that the Moabite king recognized the significance of this Israelite dynasty. The stele provides invaluable insights into the complex geopolitical landscape of the region, revealing the intricate relationships between the kingdoms of Israel, Judah, and Moab. The text describes Mesha's military campaigns, including the conquest of cities and the destruction of agricultural infrastructure, offering a vivid account of the conflicts that shaped the ancient Near East. The significance of the Mesha Stele extends beyond its historical context, as it also contains the earliest known reference to the name 'Israel' in an inscription outside the biblical tradition. This discovery has profoundly impacted biblical scholarship, providing external corroboration for the existence of the Israelite kingdom and its interactions with neighboring states. The stele is now housed in the Louvre Museum in Paris, where it remains a focal point for research on the ancient Near East and the complex dynamics of power and resistance in the region.

Inscription