There was an old Nancy Drew book that was themed around archaeology that was my first brush with those who made a life discovering, digging and preserving ancient antiquities.
 |
| Photo Ouria Tadmor. Copyright Eilat Mazar |
When the King Tutankhamun exhibit came through Chicago, we went. Dad was as fascinated with it as I was. I remember thinking, how can something survive this many years? I longed to know more.
The mystery and the history combined make it so appealing to the young and adventurous. Think Indiana Jones. The truth be told, it is long, hard, dirty, tedious, uncomfortable, hot work that is often disappointing. But, sometimes sweat and patience pay off.
I read a recent article talking about the clay seal impression of King Hezekiah... known as a bullae... being found in the oldest area of Jerusalem. Then, an even newer discovery is another bullae... broken... but bearing the name of Isaiah. Isaiah is the prophet who was one of King Hezekiah's closest advisors. The bullae is missing a letter that would confirm the word "prophet" but what are the odds that it would be any other? Even if the name Isaiah was popular at the time, how many were close enough and important enough to have a clay seal found near King Hezekiah's? I doubt it belonged at an Isaiah Smith or Isaiah Johnson.
It would be the first physical proof of Isaiah the prophet, although he is mentioned in the historical book of Josephus. Archaeology continues to uncover bits and pieces of ancient history. Biblical archaeology is some of my favorite news to follow. It reminds me of these scripture passages:
He answered, “I tell you, if these were silent, the very stones would cry out.” -Luke 19:40
For the stone will cry out from the wall, and the beam from the woodwork respond. -Habakkuk 2:11
The earth shook the day Jesus was crucified... the stones cried.
The stones cradled the body of the Lamb of God in the tomb.
The stone rolled away when he conquered death.
Today, the stones cry out with archaeological discoveries.
"The stones will cry out, and the beam from the woodwork respond." Our God will not be thwarted. We can deny him, but in time the stones will cry out.
When the rocks cry out, do we listen? Are we moved? Are we fascinated, fearful or faithful to the truths revealed? When a seal is found 9 feet away from King Hezekiah's, do we question which Isaiah it represented? It is missing one letter to confirm the title of prophet. It is a significant discovery. One broken letter could be the final piece for those who need hard evidence to believe.
"Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” -John 20:29
"Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." I am certain the rocks will cry out.
Today, I am grateful for archaeology.
No comments:
Post a Comment