Israeli archaeologists uncover first artifact confirming written record of Temple worship
Button-sized seal believed to designate ceremonially pure provisions for Temple worship, such as that described in the legend of Hanukkah.
By Haaretz Tags: Jerusalem Jerusalem Old CityIsraeli archaeologists have uncovered the first archeological find to confirm written testimony of the ritual practices at the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem.
An Israeli Antiquities Authority archaeological survey at the northwestern corner of the Temple Mount yielded a tiny tin artifact, the size of a button, inscribed with the Aramaic words: “Daka Le’Ya,” which the excavation directors on behalf of the IAA, archaeologists Eli Shukron and Professor Ronny Reich of the University of Haifa, explain means “pure for God.”
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The seal |
| Photo by: Vladimir Naykhin |
Researchers believe the artifact, dated to the first century, towards the end of the Second Temple period, is a seal similar to those described in the Mishnah. If they are correct, this is the first time physical evidence of the temple ritual was found to corroborate the written record.
The team believes the tiny seal was put on objects designated to be used in the temple, and thus had to be ceremonially pure.
In this vein, and in the spirit of Hanukkah, Jerusalem District archaeologist of the Israel Antiquities Authority, said: “It is written in the Talmud that the only cruse of oil that was discovered in the Temple after the victory of the Maccabees over the Greeks, “lay with the seal of the High Priest” – that is: the seal indicated that the oil is pure and can be used in the Temple. Remember, this cruse of oil was the basis for the miracle of Hanukkah that managed to keep the menorah lit for eight days”.
In addition to this artifact, the dig also yielded other Second Temple artifacts, some older from the time of the Hasmonean Dynasty rule, including oil lamps, earthenware pots, and containers filled with oils and perfumes, as well as coins bearing Hasmonean kings such as Alexander Jannaeus and John Hyrcanus
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Happy Hanukah to all the world!
The Muslim belief is that the FIRST temple was in Iraq. All agree that the second temple (when these artifacts were from) was in Jerusalem.
That is just ridiculous. They don't sound like objective archeologists, more like propaganda hacks.
What nonsense! Theres tons of artifacts in Museums all over the world. It shows how professional are these "experts".
Where has the Israeli Antiquities Authority been all these years?
they have been around a long time. thet have discovered artifacts from several different time periods and different religions.
Underscores the importance of artifacts. I would like to see some Palesinian artifacts too.
Aramaic. Aramaic is not Hebrew.
My understanding is that Hebrew, Aramaic and Arabic are all closely related Semitic languages among others such as Syriac. But what do I know?
in aramaic language which is the language of the Talmud.
With regard to your comment, if you will enlarge the picture and you will see Hebrew script not Aramaic. The article text says Aramaic words not Aramaic script.
The language is Aramaic, but It's written using the Hebrew alphabet.
Abbu Mazzen, put that in your smoke and pipe it. Something has things the wrong way round, and its not me.
the ersatz palestinians (or as they ineptly pronounce, Balestinians) have been long denying Jewish claims to Israel, including Judea and Samaria, here is more proof! Fakestinians can't deny the truth!
I am sure that your Arabic is not as good as their English. Shame on you, Nadav!
Nor does the rest of the Tanakh (Hebrew Bible).
According to the Archaique Aramic: I believe it is a Prophet fine Seal: The meanings exactely: 6 Six Words: God the powerfull, in him we trust; end of strory, To God and his messenger; the truth.
Your ignorance is showing. Read the seal.