Silver Amulets/Ketef Hinnom Scrolls

Overview

The Silver Amulets, discovered in 1979 during excavations at the site of Ketef Hinnom in Jerusalem, represent a remarkable archaeological find that provides an extraordinary glimpse into the religious and cultural practices of ancient Israel. These small silver foil amulets, which date to the late Iron Age, were found within a burial context and are inscribed with a Hebrew script that is among the earliest known examples of the language. The significance of these amulets lies in their content, which consists of a direct quotation of the Priestly Blessing from the Book of Numbers, a passage that has been central to Jewish religious tradition for millennia. The discovery of these amulets has profound implications for our understanding of the historical development of the Hebrew Bible, as they provide tangible evidence that the text was in circulation during the late 7th to early 6th century BCE, predating the Dead Sea Scrolls by approximately 400 years. The amulets' inscription, which includes the words 'The Lord bless you and keep you,' represents the earliest known archaeological evidence of the biblical text, confirming its early transmission and acceptance within the religious community. This discovery has had a lasting impact on the field of biblical scholarship, as it provides a tangible link between the textual tradition and the material culture of ancient Israel, offering valuable insights into the evolution of religious practices and the development of the Hebrew language. Today, the Silver Amulets are housed in the Israel Museum, where they continue to attract the attention of scholars and visitors alike, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient religious traditions.

Inscription