Archaeologists uncover evidence of ancient earthquake in Jerusalem
Scientists suggest that approximately 2,800 years ago, Jerusalem, specifically the City of David, may have been affected by a powerful earthquake. This event is described in the biblical Books of Amos and Zechariah, but until now, researchers have lacked the evidence to corroborate these accounts.
As we read in the Book of Zechariah (14:5): "You will flee by my mountain valley, for it will extend to Azel. You will flee as you fled from the earthquake in the days of Uzziah king of Judah. Then the LORD my God will come, and all the holy ones with him."
Discovery related to the Bible
During excavation work, a team of archaeologists from the Israel Antiquities Authority discovered a layer of destruction dated to around the 8th century BCE in the area of the City of David National Park. This timing coincides with the reign of King Uzziah, also known as Azariah or Ozias, who is mentioned in the Bible.
Within this layer, archaeologists found a row of broken vessels, such as bowls, kitchen utensils, and jars, which were destroyed by the collapse of building walls. However, no traces of fire were found, leading researchers to doubt the possibility of an attack on the city by invaders.
Traces confirm the biblical story
Furthermore, the discovery of similar destruction in the region supports the idea that around 2,800 years ago, a large earthquake could have occurred in the southern Levant. Researchers believe that these traces may serve as evidence of the historicity of the stories in the Bible.
Archaeologist Joe Uziel from the Israel Antiquities Authority, in an interview with Live Science in 2021, suggested that although Jerusalem was not the epicentre of the earthquake, the event had a significant impact on it. He believes that the account in the Bible highlights the dramatic effect of this event on the people of that time. The discoveries also indicate that the inhabitants later managed to rebuild the city, including its walls and buildings.
