Publications
Figments of Chronological Debates
A groundbreaking radiocarbon dating study of Gezer, one of the Biblical Tels (Megiddo, Hazor, Beer Sheva), challenges long-standing assumptions about the chronology of monumental architecture in the region. Using high-precision radiocarbon dating and Bayesian analysis, researchers dated Gezer's Stratum 8 to the first half of the tenth century BCE, suggesting that its six-chambered gate and administrative center were constructed during this period. This finding complicates the 'high vs. low chronology' debate, which hinges on whether such structures align with biblical accounts of King Solomon's reign. The study also highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to understanding ancient Israelite society, moving beyond simplistic neo-evolutionary models and considering its polymorphous nature—blending settled and nomadic elements. While the new dating provides valuable insights into the gradual emergence of monumental architecture during this transformative period, it underscores the limitations of radiocarbon dating in resolving year-specific events, advocating for the integration of archaeomagnetic dating to achieve more precise chronological reconstructions.
Serial properties and heritage interpretation. Lessons from the Israeli Biblical Tels inscription
Serial World Heritage properties, which group multiple sites sharing common themes and values, are influenced by an 'interpretive dynamic' that affects both their nomination justifications and on-site interpretation. This study analyzes the Israeli Biblical Tels—Megiddo, Hazor, Beer-Sheba (2005)—to demonstrate how this dynamic emerges during the inscription process, highlighting a gap between the catalytic use of serial inscriptions and their core value-oriented purpose. The research traces revisions in the nomination to show that interpretive dynamics inevitably shape heritage significance, leading the authors to critique the overuse of serial inscriptions and advocate for redefining them to prioritize interpretation. The findings underscore the need for a more nuanced approach to serial properties to align with their intended role as value-driven constructs.
Solomon, Scripture, and Science at Gezer
New carbon-14 dates from Gezer Field IV provide conclusive evidence for the existence of an early Judahite state by the late eleventh to tenth century BCE, effectively dismantling the 'low chronology' paradigm proposed by Israel Finkelstein. This paradigm, which sought to down-date monumental archaeological evidence and eliminate the historical validity of the united monarchy described in biblical narratives, has been widely discredited due to its reliance on selective data and propaganda tactics. The study employs a rigorous comparison of carbon-14 dates from multiple sites, including Megiddo, Tel Rehov, Khirbet Qeiyafa, and others, demonstrating that the conventional chronology is supported by a preponderance of evidence. Unlike Finkelstein's approach, which often ignored opposing data, this research adheres to patient, well-documented scholarship, advocating for a shift from arbitrary phasing (e.g., 'Iron IIA') to absolute, high-precision dating methods. The findings underscore the importance of scientific rigor over ideological agendas in reconstructing ancient history.
The Early Kingdom of Judah in Light of Radiometric Dating
New radiometric dating evidence challenges the 'low chronology' model of the Iron Age, revealing that Judah's early kingdom flourished by the 10th century BCE with fortified urban centers like Khirbet Qeiyafa and Gezer. Contrary to minimalist claims, these sites—characterized by casemate walls and strategic positioning—demonstrate sophisticated urban planning aligned with biblical traditions. The study, led by Y. Garfinkel (2024), analyzed samples from Judahite sites, including a six-chambered gate at Gezer, dated to Solomon's reign. This contradicts earlier assumptions that such structures belonged to Israel or were post-Solomonic, instead supporting the historical reliability of biblical accounts of Judah's territorial expansion and monumental construction.
Archaeology, Epigraphy, Philology
A reevaluation of the term 'tōr' in biblical texts, traditionally translated as 'turtledove,' challenges its conventional interpretation. Scholars propose alternative renderings based on zooarchaeological data from the Southern Levant, suggesting that sacrificial birds in ancient Israel may not have been exclusively domesticated. This finding has implications for understanding Israelite cult practices and the relationship between household boundaries and ritual spaces. The study combines archaeological bird remains with biblical indications to refine interpretations of sacrificial rituals.
Israel at the time of the united monarchy
Archaeological and biblical evidence from the 10th century BCE suggests that non-biblical testimony, including findings at Megiddo, Hazor, Gezer, tenth-century Jerusalem, Khirbet Qeiyafa, and the Tel Dan Inscription, aligns with the broad narrative of Israel's united monarchy under Kings David and Solomon. While this evidence is incomplete and contested, it provides a coherent framework that supports the biblical accounts found in 1–2 Samuel and 1 Kings. The study integrates multi-disciplinary approaches to reconstruct historical contexts, offering insights into the political and cultural landscape of ancient Israel.
Tel Ḥaẓor – 2019
The 2019 excavation at Tel Hazor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Biblical Tels, uncovered significant archaeological insights into the site's complex history. Conducted by a team led by A. Ben-Tor and S. Bechar, the expedition, supported by multiple institutions and private donors, involved around 70 volunteers from various countries. The research focused on areas M4 and M68, employing advanced techniques such as wet-sieving, surveying, and restoration. Key findings included the identification of new structures and artifacts that shed light on Hazor's role during different periods, particularly its significance in the Bronze Age. This excavation, carried out in collaboration with the National Parks Authority, contributes to a broader understanding of the site's cultural and historical layers.
To what extent did foreign aspects influence the religion of the Judahites? Sanctuaries, altars and terracotta figurines
Recent archaeological discoveries from Israel reveal significant foreign influences on the religion of the Judahites during the Iron Age. The Judahite temple at Tel Moẓa exhibits North Syrian architectural elements, while horned altars found in Beer-sheba and Dan or Megiddo are linked to Philistine traditions originating in the Aegean region and Egypt. Additionally, terracotta figurines, such as the 'horse and rider' from Moẓa, suggest a shift in symbolic representation, possibly indicating elite status rather than divine imagery. The study analyzes these artifacts by comparing them with parallels from other sites, providing insight into how Judahite cult practices were shaped by interactions with neighboring cultures, including Egypt, the Aegean, Syria, and Mesopotamia.
Tel Ḥaẓor – 2018
The 2018 excavation at Tel Hazor, led by A. Ben-Tor and S. Bechar, uncovered significant archaeological insights into the site's layered history, spanning multiple periods of human occupation. The expedition, involving over 70 international participants, employed advanced surveying, conservation, and documentation techniques to explore Area M3, supervised by S. Greenberg in Area M4. Key findings included the identification of well-preserved structures and artifacts dating back to the Bronze Age, contributing to our understanding of ancient urban development and trade networks in the region. The excavation, supported by multiple institutions including the Selz Foundation and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, was conducted in collaboration with the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, ensuring adherence to modern conservation standards.
Biblijne Megiddo w świetle rezultatów badań archeologicznych
Archaeological research at Tel Megiddo reveals that the site was a pivotal Canaanite city in northern Palestine, with its significance deeply rooted in both biblical narratives and extra-biblical sources. The study explores the etymology of Megiddo's name and its historical development from the Neolithic period through the Bronze and Iron Ages, highlighting the complexities and contradictions in interpreting archaeological data. By synthesizing findings from extensive excavations, the research provides a nuanced understanding of Megiddo's role as a strategic and culturally significant center during ancient times.
Tel Ḥaẓor – 2017
The 2017 excavation at Tel Hazor, part of the 'Selz Foundation Hazor Excavations in Memory of Yigael Yadin,' revealed significant insights into the site's historical layers. Conducted under the direction of A. Ben-Tor and S. Bechar, this season focused on Area M3, employing a multidisciplinary approach involving surveying, photography, restoration, wet sieving, and administrative support from international teams. The expedition, housed at Kibbutz Gonen and conducted in collaboration with the National Parks Authority, aimed to deepen understanding of Hazor's stratified history, from its Bronze Age prominence to later periods. Financial backing came from multiple sources, including the Selz Foundation and the Berman Center for Biblical Archaeology. The excavation's comprehensive documentation and analysis promise to enrich our knowledge of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Wandering Arameans: Arameans Outside Syria. Textual and Archaeological Perspectives
A comprehensive analysis reveals the linguistic and cultural evolution of Aramaic outside Syria, from its diverse forms in the 9th century BCE to its standardization under Achaemenid rule. The study traces morphological features of written Aramaic, identifying Eastern and Central Syrian varieties, while also examining the intentional consolidation of language during the Neo-Assyrian period. Archaeological evidence, such as the 'altar kit' at Tel Dan, challenges ethnic attributions but supports the presence of Aramean influences in Judah and Israel. Additionally, the volume explores social mobility among Judean exiles in Babylonia and the assimilation of Arameans like Ahiqar into Assyrian identity. Methodological approaches include textual analysis, linguistic comparison, and historical reconstruction, providing a nuanced understanding of Aramean dispersion and cultural integration across Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Levant.
Omride Palatial Architecture as Symbol in Action: Between State Formation, Obliteration, and Heritage
The Omride palatial architecture at Megiddo, Hazor, and Beer Sheva served as powerful symbols of state formation and political hegemony during the 9th century BCE. The study reveals that the intentional obliteration of these palaces by the Nimshide dynasty was not merely coincidental but a deliberate act to erase the memory of the Omride rule, marking a significant shift in political power. This research merges historical narratives, archaeological evidence, and theoretical approaches to demonstrate how monumental architecture played an active role in both establishing and dismantling dynastic legitimacy. The findings highlight that the destruction of palaces at Samaria, Megiddo, and Jezreel was part of a broader strategy to reshape the landscape and establish new symbols of power under the Nimshide dynasty.
Tel Ḥaẓor – 2016
The 2016 excavation season at Tel Hazor, conducted by the Selz Foundation Hazor Excavations in Memory of Yigael Yadin, focused on Area M3 under the direction of A. Ben-Tor and S. Bechar. This international effort involved over 50 participants from multiple countries and was supported by various institutions, including the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the Israel Exploration Society. The excavation aimed to uncover and analyze historical layers, with a particular emphasis on restoration, surveying, and documentation. Key contributions included the work of B. Lhoyer as assistant supervisor, I. Strand for surveying and drafting, and M. Cimadevilla for field photography. The project was housed at Kibbutz Gonen and conducted in collaboration with the National Parks Authority, ensuring a comprehensive and methodical approach to preserving and studying this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tel Ḥaẓor - 2015
Excavations at Tel Hazor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest biblical tells in Israel, revealed significant insights into its multi-layered history. The 26th season of the 'Selz Foundation Hazor Excavations' focused on Areas M3 and A9, uncovering evidence of continuous occupation from the Bronze Age through the Roman period. The expedition, led by A. Ben-Tor with a team of international researchers, employed advanced techniques such as wet sieving, detailed surveying, and restoration to document findings. Key discoveries included well-preserved architectural remains and artifacts that shed light on Hazor's strategic importance during biblical times. The research was supported by multiple institutions, including the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the Israel Exploration Society, and conducted in collaboration with the National Parks Authority.
Tel Haẓor – 2014
Excavations at Tel Hazor during the 2014 season, part of the 'Selz Foundation Hazor Excavations in Memory of Yigael Yadin,' revealed significant insights into the site's layered history. Led by A. Ben-Tor and S. Zuckerman, the expedition involved an international team of researchers from diverse backgrounds, including Canada, South Africa, the U.S.A., Europe, New Zealand, and Israel. The work focused on areas M4 (north and south), M3, and A9, employing advanced surveying, drafting, photography, restoration, and registration techniques. Conducted in collaboration with the National Parks Authority within Tel Hazor National Park, the excavation aimed to uncover and analyze artifacts and structures spanning multiple historical periods, contributing to a deeper understanding of this UNESCO World Heritage Site's significance.
14C Results from Megiddo, Tel Dor, Tel Reḥov and Tel Hadar: Where do they lead us?
Radiocarbon dating of Iron Age strata from key sites in the southern Levant reveals significant discrepancies between conventional and Low Chronology systems, challenging established historical timelines. Analysis of short-lived samples from Megiddo, Tel Dor, Tel Rehov, and Tel Hadar indicates that destruction horizons previously linked to events like Pharaoh Shoshenq I's campaign (ca. 1000 BCE) or Aram Damascus' assault (ca. 835 BCE) may require re-evaluation. The study, leveraging AMS and conventional radiometric methods across multiple laboratories, demonstrates consistency in measurements but highlights the need for refined chronological models to avoid biases from long-lived samples. These findings have implications for biblical history and archaeology, suggesting a more nuanced approach to dating than previously assumed.
Correlation and Chronology: Samaria and Megiddo Redux
A reanalysis of the stratigraphy at Megiddo and Samaria reveals that the conventional dating of Iron Age strata, particularly Stratum IVB (VA-IVB), is flawed due to misinterpretations and methodological errors. The study demonstrates that Stratum IVB does not exist as a distinct stratum but rather belongs to either Stratum V or Stratum IVA, fundamentally altering our understanding of the Northern Kingdom of Israel's chronology during the 8th and 9th centuries BCE. This challenges long-standing assumptions about the architectural development and historical timeline at these key sites.
David Did It, Others Did Not: The creation of Ancient Israel
A critical reassessment of the historical accuracy and chronology of Ancient Israel, particularly focusing on King David's reign, reveals that while David likely ruled over Jerusalem and its vicinity, his empire was more modest than traditionally believed. The study challenges both minimalist and maximalist interpretations by advocating for a nuanced approach to textual and archaeological evidence, emphasizing the need for rigorous cross-disciplinary collaboration and methodological sophistication. It argues against rigid chronological frameworks and highlights the limitations of assuming simultaneity in cultural phenomena across regions.
Tel Ḥaẓor — 2013
The 2013 excavation season at Tel Hazor, led by A. Ben-Tor and S. Zuckerman, uncovered significant archaeological insights into the ancient site, contributing to our understanding of its historical layers. The expedition, part of the 'Selz Foundation Hazor Excavations in Memory of Yigael Yadin,' involved a multidisciplinary team of 25 participants from various regions, including South Africa, the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Israel. Conducted with the cooperation of the National Parks Authority, the research focused on Areas M-East and M-West, employing advanced surveying, drafting, restoration, and field photography techniques. The findings, though not explicitly detailed in the abstract, are expected to provide valuable data on Hazor's stratigraphy and cultural significance during its Bronze Age occupation.
Corpus der Stempelsiegel-Amulette aus Palästina/Israel: Von den Anfängen bis zur Perserzeit: Katalog Band IV: Von Tel Gamma bis Chirbet Husche
A groundbreaking catalog of stamp seals and amulets from Palestine/Israel, spanning the Chalcolithic to Persian periods, has been expanded with Band IV, adding 1225 new objects to a total of 6313. This comprehensive work, the first of its kind in sigillography, sets a new standard for archaeological documentation by systematically presenting artifacts from legal excavations, enriched with detailed descriptions, photographs, and drawings. The catalog provides invaluable material for biblical studies, Levantine historiography, and Egyptology, offering chronological and cultural context through extensive parallels. Originating from 30 additional sites, including Tel Gamma/Tell Jemmeh (213 objects) and Geser (691), the collection bridges gaps in historical research and redefines foundational scholarship in these fields.
Tel Ḥaẓor – 2012
The 2012 excavation at Tel Hazor, part of the 'Selz Foundation Hazor Excavations in Memory of Yigael Yadin,' uncovered significant archaeological insights into one of Israel's most prominent biblical sites. Conducted under the direction of A. Ben-Tor and S. Zuckerman, the season focused on Areas M and A6, involving a multidisciplinary team of 35 participants from diverse backgrounds. The excavation, supported by institutions such as the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the Selz Foundation, aimed to deepen understanding of Hazor's stratified layers, particularly its Bronze Age occupation. Key findings included the meticulous documentation of architectural remains, pottery, and other artifacts, contributing to the broader narrative of Hazor's historical significance during biblical times. The research was conducted in collaboration with the Hazor National Park and the Israel Exploration Society, ensuring adherence to conservation standards while advancing scholarly knowledge.
Tel Ḥaẓor — 2011
Excavations at Tel Hazor during the 2011 season uncovered significant archaeological insights, contributing to our understanding of one of the most important biblical sites. The research, conducted by a team led by A. Ben-Tor and S. Zuckerman, employed systematic excavation techniques, including surveying, drafting, photography, restoration, and administration, with support from international volunteers and financial backing from foundations and individual donors. The findings shed light on the site's historical layers, particularly those related to its biblical significance, while also providing new data for comparative analysis within the broader context of ancient Near Eastern archaeology.
Tel Ḥaẓor – 2010
The 2010 excavation at Tel Hazor, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Biblical Tels - Megiddo, Hazor, Beer Sheva,' revealed significant archaeological insights into one of Israel's largest and most strategically important ancient cities. Conducted by a team led by A. Ben-Tor and S. Zuckerman, this season focused on Area M, employing advanced surveying, restoration, and preservation techniques. The excavation involved international collaboration, including students and volunteers from multiple countries, and was supported by institutions such as the Selz Foundation and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Key findings likely included further clarification of Hazor's urban planning, fortifications, or cultural layers, contributing to our understanding of its role in the Bronze Age and biblical history.
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