Ancient Stone Discovery Could Reshape Understanding of Jesus’s Life

Archaeologists have uncovered a 1,700-year-old stone inscription near a site linked to the biblical account of Jesus walking on water. This discovery could challenge traditional narratives and reshape religious history.

The engraved basalt slab, found at the Abel Beth Maacah site in Upper Galilee, references two towns—Tirathas and Golgol—previously unknown to scholars. Experts believe these towns were under Roman control during the rule of Caesar Marcus Aurelius Alexander, offering new insights into Roman influence in the region.

While some speculate “Golgol” may link to biblical locations like Golgotha (where Jesus was crucified) or Gilgal (mentioned in the Book of Joshua), no direct connection has yet been proven.

Professor Uzi from Hebrew University noted that the stone “sheds light on ancient land ownership, taxation, and governance under the Roman Empire.” The find highlights the vast reach of Roman rule in ancient Israel, once believed to be more limited.

In addition to the stone, researchers uncovered a 1,500-year-old amulet called “Solomon’s Seal” in Arbel, believed to protect women and infants from evil spirits. A sacred site near Jerusalem, tied to King Hezekiah—an ancestor of Jesus—was also unearthed. It features eight rooms, an altar, and a sacred stone.

These archaeological finds are prompting scholars to re-examine long-held beliefs about early Christianity and the historical footprint of Jesus’s life.

Whether these discoveries redefine biblical history remains to be seen—but they have certainly stirred scholarly and public interest worldwide.