Ancient oil lamp reveals information about Jewish life in 4th and 6th century Galilee

An ancient and nearly intact Byzantine oil lamp that was recently uncovered in the Zippori National Park in the Galilee region is believed to have been used by members of the Jewish community in the 4th to 6th centuries C.E. The ancient lamp is 7.5 inches tall and measures 7 inches in diameter and is believed to have been created by a skilled artisan. 

The Galilee region is closely connected with Jesus and the development of ancient Christianity. The Zippori area is significant in Christianity as it is believed to be the home of the parents of Mary (Maria), the mother of Jesus. 

Dr. Dror Ben-Yosef, a regional archaeologist affiliated with the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, believes the rare find offers a unique insight into the ancient religious Jewish practices of the time.

"This is a relatively rare discovery in Israeli archaeology," Ben-Yosef assessed. 

"It’s uncommon to find intact oil lamps during excavations. Since this was uncovered in Zippori, a city once home to the Jewish Sanhedrin and where Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi completed the Mishnah (a collection of originally oral laws supplementing scriptural laws), it’s reasonable to assume the lamp was used by the Jewish community in the area."

Ben-Yosef explained the archaeological importance of the ancient lamp. 

“Unlike other household items, lamps and oil lamps carried deeper ritualistic meanings. Their use in homes, public spaces, and even in burial practices led their owners to decorate them with cultural and religious motifs. It’s no surprise that lamps are key archaeological finds, revealing much about the beliefs and daily lives of their users," he said. 

The Jay and Jeanie Schottenstein National Campus for the Archaeology of Israel in Jerusalem is expected to display the lamp following further conservation work by the Israel Antiquities Authority.

Despite its small size, Israel boasts a rich archaeological heritage, owing to its significance as the Holy Land and its strategic location at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe.

In April, an exhibition entitled “Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered,” was displayed in the United States. The exhibition provides valuable insight into ancient Jewish history and holds significance for Christianity by lending authenticity to the biblical narrative.

While many archaeological discoveries in Israel are made by professionals, it is not uncommon for individuals to accidentally uncover rare and ancient artifacts while hiking or exploring the land.

In July, a 13-year-old and his father accidentally discovered an ancient ring from Roman times in the nearby Mount Carmel region. The ring depicts the Roman war goddess.