Brace yourselves for some mind-blowing news from the ancient world! Archaeologists have uncovered a ‘monumental’ structure in Jerusalem, a discovery that’s straight out of the Bible. This ancient moat, built over 3,000 years ago in the City of David, confirms biblical descriptions and is causing quite a stir in the archaeological community.
For 150 years, researchers have been trying to prove that the city was divided as described in the Bible. Now, they have uncovered the ruins of a moat that split the City of David into two distinct parts: the southern residential area and the upper city to the north.
This massive moat measured about 30 feet deep and nearly 100 feet wide, with sheer cliffs on either side that made it impossible to cross. The findings confirm that the moat was created during the Iron Age, the same period when the Book of Kings and the Book of Samuel were written. These books describe the City of David being split into areas known as Ophel and Millo.
The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) is excited about the discovery, calling it a dramatic find that reignites discussions about biblical terms describing Jerusalem’s topography. In the first Book of Kings (11:27), King Solomon is mentioned as building the ‘Millo’: “… Solomon built up the ‘Millo’ and closed up the breach in the wall of the City of David, his father.”
The City of David, the birthplace of Jerusalem, was established by King David to unite Israel under one capital. Built atop a narrow, steep ridge overlooking hills and valleys, it was strategically designed to be difficult to navigate, enhancing its defenses.
Dr. Yiftah Shalev, the excavation director, noted that while it’s unclear when the moat was initially cut, evidence suggests it was in use during the centuries when Jerusalem was the capital of the Kingdom of Judah, nearly 3,000 years ago, starting with King Josiah. During this period, the moat served as a barrier between the southern residential area and the ruling Acropolis in the north, where the palace and temple were located.
The construction of such defensive features typically dates back to the Middle Bronze Age, around 3,800 years ago. Dr. Shalev is confident that the moat was in use during the time of the First Temple and the Kingdom of Judah, creating a clear separation between the residential and upper parts of the city.
This moat wasn’t just a physical barrier; it was a statement of power. It showcased Jerusalem’s rulers’ ability to alter the landscape to defend their city and emphasize their dominance over anyone entering their gates.
The moat was first identified in the 1960s by British archaeologist Kathleen Kenyon, who initially thought it was a natural valley. However, recent excavations have revealed that it is indeed a continuation of the moat, curving to the west.
Eli Escusido, Director of the IAA, expressed his awe at the discovery, stating, “When you stand at the bottom of this giant excavation, surrounded by enormous hewn walls, it is impossible not to be filled with wonder and appreciation for those ancient people who, about 3,800 years ago, literally moved mountains and hills.”
This discovery adds a new chapter to our understanding of ancient Jerusalem, shedding vivid light on biblical literature and the impressive feats of engineering achieved by its early inhabitants.