A Toddler’s Unexpected Discovery: A 3,800-Year-Old Egyptian Scarab Amulet
An Ordinary Walk Turns Extraordinary
In early March, during a family outing near Beit Shemesh at Tel Azekah, three-year-old Ziv Nitzan made an extraordinary discovery. As she walked along a seemingly ordinary path, she picked up what appeared to be just another stone. But after brushing off the sand, she revealed something far more significant, an ancient scarab amulet, dating back around 3,800 years.
“It was just another walk, nothing out of the ordinary,” recalled Ziv’s sister, Omer Nitzan. “But when Ziv picked up the stone, we realized something was different. It didn’t look like any stone we had ever seen before.”
A Historical Treasure
The family immediately alerted the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA), who confirmed that they had found an artifact of immense historical value. The scarab, a symbol of both spiritual and social significance in the ancient world, would go on to be displayed in a special exhibition at the Jay and Jeanie Schottenstein National Campus for the Archaeology of Israel, alongside other rare items from Egypt and Canaan.
A Window into the Intertwined Cultures of Egypt and Canaan
For the Nitzan family, it was a moment of unexpected history. The scarab represented something much deeper than a mere relic; it was a window into the intertwined cultures of Egypt and Canaan. “Scarabs were incredibly important in the Middle Bronze Age,” explained Daphna Ben-Tor, an authority on ancient amulets and seals. “They were often used as seals and amulets and were found in graves, homes, and public buildings. Their symbolism went beyond simple decoration, they conveyed religious beliefs, social status, and personal identity.”
The Significance of the Scarab
The scarab, shaped like a dung beetle, was regarded in ancient Egypt as a symbol of creation, renewal, and the divine. It was believed to be a representation of the Creator God and had a powerful protective quality. Though originating in Egypt, scarabs eventually spread throughout the ancient world, becoming iconic symbols that bridged various cultures.
The Archaeological Richness of Tel Azekah
This particular scarab was discovered at the foot of Tel Azekah, a site famous for its archaeological richness. Known for its historical significance, Tel Azekah has yielded evidence of multiple civilizations, including remnants from the Judahite Kingdom. The discovery of Ziv’s scarab adds another layer to the growing collection of Egyptian and Canaanite artifacts found at the site, reinforcing the deep cultural connections between the two ancient civilizations.
A Link to Ancient Civilizations
“The artifact further supports the notion that Egypt’s influence on Canaan was profound during the Middle and Late Bronze Ages,” said Professor Oded Lipschits, director of the Tel Aviv University excavation at Tel Azekah. “It is a testament to the shared history and interactions between these two mighty ancient cultures.”
A Reminder That History Is Within Reach
Israeli Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu marveled at how such an important artifact was uncovered by a child. “This scarab is not only a link to ancient civilizations, but it also serves as a reminder that history is within reach for everyone, even the youngest among us.”
A Special Passover Exhibition
The scarab, along with other Egyptian artifacts, will be featured in a special Passover exhibition showcasing the deep-rooted cultural ties between Egypt and Israel. This unique exhibition will allow the public to appreciate ancient seals, ritual vessels, statues, and other items that underscore Egypt’s enduring influence on the Land of Israel.
Amulets: Ancient symbols of faith and fashion
The discovery of Ziv’s scarab reminds us that while amulets have always had deep spiritual and religious significance, they’ve also played a crucial role in fashioning personal identity and status. Throughout history, amulets were not just protective talismans but also fashionable accessories, proudly worn by the elite to signal their faith, wealth, and cultural standing.
The Iconic Scarab
In ancient Egypt, the scarab was one of the most iconic symbols. Carved from precious stones or metals, scarabs were often worn as jewelry, making them both a spiritual and fashionable accessory. Their symbolism – representing creation, rebirth, and divine protection – made them highly prized by Egyptians, who believed they could bring good fortune and ward off evil. These amulets were often worn as pendants, rings, or seals, serving not only as symbols of devotion but also as markers of social position.
The Spread of the Scarab
As ancient Egyptian culture spread, so did the scarab. Canaanites, Greeks, and Romans adopted the beetle-shaped amulet, incorporating it into their own rituals and jewelry collections. In many cultures, amulets were worn as much for their aesthetic appeal as for their protective qualities. In fact, many individuals would wear these charms in prominent places, around their necks, wrists, or even as hair accessories – ensuring they were visible to others.
The Timeless Tradition of Amulets
Today, the tradition of amulets continues, with modern jewelry designers often drawing inspiration from these ancient symbols. The scarab, in particular, has made its way into contemporary collections, proving that even in the world of high fashion, the combination of spirituality and style is as timeless as ever. Whether as a safeguard against misfortune or a statement piece, amulets remain a beautiful fusion of tradition, faith, and fashion, bridging the past and present.
