The real-life existence of at least 50 individuals mentioned in sacred texts has been substantiated through wall paintings, inscriptions on stone tablets, and other material evidence.
One of the most significant discoveries is a stone tablet bearing the name of Pontius Pilate, the man who sentenced Jesus to death. So, what do we know about these findings? Here are five discoveries that have made headlines in the world of archaeology.
The Tablet of Pontius Pilate
The prefect of the Roman province of Judea, who ordered Jesus to be crucified, was a real and well-documented historical figure. Pontius Pilate governed the province from 26 to 36 AD during the reign of Emperor Tiberius.
In 1961, Italian archaeologists uncovered an ancient limestone tablet in the Mediterranean port of Caesarea, which served as the prefect’s residence. The tablet was inscribed with the name “Pontius Pilate.” Experts believe Pilate erected this tablet in the Tiberium, a temple built in honor of Emperor Tiberius. Dating of the tablet confirmed that it was created during Pilate’s lifetime.
The name of Pontius Pilate on the stone found in Caesarea
Pilate is frequently mentioned by ancient authors, including Philo of Alexandria, Josephus, and Tacitus. Philo, in particular, described Pilate as “harsh, stubborn, and ruthless, debauched, rude, and aggressive.”
The Tomb of King Herod
King Herod, born in 73 BC, ruled Judea for 34 years. He was a puppet of Rome. Although Herod expanded the borders of the Judean state and became famous for his grand construction projects, he is remembered in history as a merciless tyrant. This is the same King Herod who orchestrated the “Massacre of the Innocents” in Bethlehem, during which all male infants were killed.
He died over 2000 years ago, but it wasn’t until 2007 that a team led by archaeologist Ehud Netzer discovered his tomb in the fortress complex of Herodium, located 12 kilometers from Jerusalem. Prior to this, historical chronicles and coins were the only evidence of his life, as reported by the Daily Mail.
Excavations of King Herod’s tomb
Fragments of Herod’s sarcophagus made of pink limestone were scattered, likely broken intentionally.
The Cave of John the Baptist
Another incredible discovery that confirmed the real-life existence of the prophet John the Baptist was made by British archaeologist Simon Gibson. This pertains to a cave found in 2004, where archaeologists claim the prophet preached. The cave is located in his hometown of Ein Kerem, west of Jerusalem.
It was John the Baptist who prophesied the coming of Christ. He is also the one who baptized Jesus in the waters of the Jordan River. Twenty-eight steps in the cave lead down to an underground pool. Gibson’s team discovered 250,000 fragments of small jars that may have been used in purification rituals.
The Tomb of the Apostle Philip
A unique site—the tomb of the Apostle Philip—was discovered in 2011 at the thermal resort of Pamukkale in Turkey. The burial site of one of Christ’s twelve apostles was found by Italian archaeologist Francesco D’Andria.
After Christ’s Ascension, the Apostle Philip continued his mission. He was crucified for his preaching activities in 90 AD during the reign of Emperor Domitian.
The tomb of the Apostle Philip
The tomb was uncovered during excavations of an ancient church. Researchers observed drawings and inscriptions on its walls that indicated Philip’s presence. However, his remains were missing. Archaeologists speculated that they were taken to Rome and placed in the Church of the Holy Apostles.
The Seal of the Prophet Isaiah
According to archaeologist Eilat Mazar from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, a clay seal found in Jerusalem in 2019, dating back to the 8th century BC, bears the name of the prophet Isaiah.
Interestingly, this personal seal of the prophet was discovered just three meters from where the seal of King Hezekiah was found in 2015, who was advised by Isaiah.
The seal of the prophet Isaiah
If this is indeed Isaiah’s seal, it serves as the first scientific evidence that he was a real person.