A three-year-old has discovered a Canaanite scarab while walking near the archaeological site of Tel Azeka, a location that, according to the Bible, is where David fought Goliath.
The significance of the scarab in ancient Egypt
Scarabs—used as amulets—originated in ancient Egypt, where these beetles were revered as sacred symbols of rebirth.
The ancient Egyptians believed that the scarabs embodied new life, as they laid their eggs in dung, thus creating life out of decay.
"During this period, scarabs were used as seals and amulets," explains Dr. Daphna Ben-Tor, an expert in Egyptian symbols and especially scarabs, in her statement. "We have found them in tombs, public buildings, and private homes. Sometimes, they were symbols reflecting religious beliefs or social views."
Dr. Ben-Tor studied the artifact discovered in the Tel Azeka area and concluded that it has cultural ties to the Canaanites, an ancient people mentioned in the Bible and in historical records over 3,500 years ago. This kingdom existed in the eastern Mediterranean with a city-state structure, also linked to older archaeological finds.
Tel Azeka is mentioned in the Bible as the site of the iconic battle between David and the Philistine giant Goliath (1 Samuel 17:1). Excavations have been ongoing at this location for the last 15 years, led by scholars from Tel Aviv University.
"The findings from the excavation show that, during the Middle and Late Bronze Ages (2000 – 1000 BC), one of the most important cities in the Judean Plain was thriving here at Tel Azeka," explains Professor Oded Lipschits of Tel Aviv University, who is also the lead archaeologist for the excavation.
"The scarab found by Zin incorporates the long history of Egyptian and Canaanite finds discovered here, which demonstrate the close ties and cultural influences between Canaan and Egypt during this period."
The scarab will be featured in a special exhibition by the Israel Antiquities Authority this Passover at the Jay and Jeanie Schottenstein campus, alongside other ancient artifacts from Egypt and Canaan.
A toddler has discovered a Canaanite seal at the site where David fought Goliath, according to the Bible. Photo: Israel Antiquities Authority
"In our public tours, we will present, for the first time, impressive artifacts, including Pharaoh seals, Egyptian statues, ritual vessels, and evidence of the cultural influence of Egypt on the land of Israel," says Eli Escusido, Director of the Israel Antiquities Authority, in his statement.
Three-year-old Ziv Nitzan was awarded an honorary distinction by the Israel Antiquities Authority.
