Bible Rebel keeps a watchdog’s eye on discoveries and news from the world of biblical archaeology and brings it to our readers.
Rare gold coin of Queen Berenice II found in Jerusalem (Aug 20, 2025) Archaeologists in the City of David uncovered a ~2,200-year-old pure-gold quarter-drachma depicting the Ptolemaic queen Berenice II (3rd c. BCE). It’s the first of its type found in a controlled excavation in Jerusalem and sheds light on Hellenistic-period Jerusalem’s economy and connections with Egypt. The Times of Israelעיר דוד
“For the Redemption of Zion” revolt coin near the Temple Mount (Jul 31, 2025) A rare bronze coin minted in Year Four of the Great Jewish Revolt (69–70 CE) was discovered by the Israel Antiquities Authority at the Jerusalem Archaeological Garden–Davidson Center. The coin’s paleo-Hebrew inscription shifts from earlier “Freedom of Zion” issues to “Redemption of Zion,” reflecting besieged Jerusalem’s mood shortly before the Temple’s destruction. The Times of Israelעיר דוד
Temple Mount bulla with biblical-era personal names (Jul 30, 2025) The Temple Mount Sifting Project announced a 2,600-year-old clay sealing (bulla) reading “Belonging to Yed[a]yah son of Asayahu,” names that appear in the Hebrew Bible. Though found in sifted soil (not an in-situ context), it adds to epigraphic evidence for First Temple–period Jerusalem’s administrative activity. OmnesArchaeology
Dead Sea Scrolls redated using radiocarbon + AI (Jun 4, 2025) A peer-reviewed PLOS ONE study combined new radiocarbon testing (after removing 1950s castor-oil contamination) with an AI handwriting model (“Enoch”). Results suggest many scrolls—some biblical—are older than previously thought, with two fragments potentially contemporary with their presumed authors. This recalibrates timelines for script development and Second Temple-era texts. Live Science
Rediscovery of Byzantine Christian settlement in Jordan
Archaeologists from Mu’tah University led by Musallam R. Al‑Rawahneh uncovered what is believed to be the lost Byzantine town of Tharais, near the Dead Sea. Finds include pottery shards, glass fragments, fossils, and architectural remains of a basilica‑style church with mosaic flooring and an olive‑oil press. Ancient inscriptions—possibly linked to Christian funerary rites—were also found. The site was likely abandoned in the 7th century due to shifting trade routes, environmental changes, and the region’s transition from Byzantine to Islamic rule. From the New York Post
Evidence for Jesus’s first miracle site in Galilee
Historian‑archaeologist Tom McCollough proposes that the real location of Jesus’s first miracle—turning water into wine—may be Khirbet Qana, not the traditional Kafr Kanna. Excavations revealed a 1,500‑year‑old complex of Christian veneration caves marked with crosses and inscriptions like “Kyrie Iesou”, as well as a stone altar and space for six ceremonial jars—matching the Gospel of John. McCollough’s findings align with early historical texts describing the area as a Jewish village. From the New York Post
Cave once thought to be Salome’s burial may belong to Herodian royalty
A cave southwest of Jerusalem, long believed to be the burial site of “Salome the midwife of Jesus,” may instead belong to a member of the Herodian royal family, possibly Herod the Great’s sister. The cave’s monumental architecture and ornate features typical of elite Herodian tombs support this claim. Hundreds of clay lamps—likely sold to Christian pilgrims—were also found, attesting to the site’s Byzantine-era veneration. Experts caution more evidence is needed to confirm identity. From Live Science
Ancient grape and olive traces at Golgotha support Gospel narratives
Italian archaeologists from Sapienza University uncovered 2,000‑year‑old grape pips and olive stones beneath the floor of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, traditionally regarded as Mount Calvary. Soil and pollen analysis suggest that vineyards and olive cultivation existed on the site before Emperor Hadrian’s time—consistent with Gospel descriptions of a garden at Jesus’s crucifixion locale. This restoration-linked discovery has support from both Israeli authorities and major Christian denominations. From The Times
Ancient Cave Burial Reinterpreted as Herodian Royal Tomb
A cave southwest of Jerusalem, long venerated as the burial site of Salome, the midwife of Jesus, is now believed by archaeologists Vladik Lifshits and Nir-Shimshon Paran to be the tomb of a Herodian royal, possibly King Herod the Great’s sister, also named Salome. The site’s monumental architecture and ornate features align with elite Herodian-era tombs. Rediscovered in the 1980s, the cave contained hundreds of oil lamps, likely sold to Byzantine Christian pilgrims. While an ossuary inscribed with the name Salome was found, the name’s commonality necessitates further evidence to confirm the tomb’s occupant. – From Live Science
Evidence of Garden at Crucifixion Site Unearthed
Italian archaeologists from Sapienza University have uncovered 2,000-year-old grape and olive traces beneath the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, traditionally identified as the site of Jesus’s crucifixion. This discovery supports the Gospel of John’s account of a garden at the crucifixion site. Soil and pollen analyses revealed ancient grape pips and olive stones, indicating cultivation before Emperor Hadrian’s reign, aligning with the time of Christ. The excavation, part of a restoration project begun in 2022, has been conducted with sensitivity due to the site’s religious significance, involving collaboration among major Christian denominations and the Israel Antiquities Authority. – From the New York Post
3,800-Year-Old Canaanite Scarab Found by Toddler
At Tel Azekah in Israel’s Shephelah region, a 3-year-old named Ziv Nitzan discovered a 3,800-year-old Canaanite scarab amulet during a family outing. The artifact, shaped like a dung beetle and dating to the Middle Bronze Age, was verified by expert Daphna Ben-Tor as a seal used for religious or status purposes. Scarabs held sacred symbolism in ancient Egypt, representing life and creation. Tel Azekah is historically notable for its biblical association with the story of David and Goliath. The find underscores the site’s historical richness and provides a tangible link to the ancient past. – From the New York Post
Subatomic Imaging Reveals Hidden Structures in Ancient Jerusalem
A team of Israeli archaeologists and physicists has employed muon detectors—devices that utilize cosmic-ray muons—to non-invasively explore subterranean structures in ancient Jerusalem. Focusing on “Jeremiah’s cistern” near the City of David, the detectors have begun mapping hidden voids and structural anomalies beneath the surface. This innovative approach allows researchers to investigate areas that are otherwise inaccessible due to practical and political constraints, offering new insights into Jerusalem’s 5,000-year history without the need for destructive excavation methods. – From Christianity Today
As reported in Bible History Dailyfrom the Biblical Archaeology Society, a recent discovery has unearthed, literally, a stamped clay bulla bearing the seal of King Hezekiah.
From the article: “The royal seal of King Hezekiah in the Bible was found in an archaeological excavation. The stamped clay seal, also known as a bulla, was discovered in the Ophel excavations led by Dr. Eilat Mazar at the foot of the southern wall of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. The discovery was announced in a press release by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem’s Institute of Archaeology, under whose auspices the excavations were conducted...
…Who Was King Hezekiah in the Bible?
King Hezekiah in the Bible, son and successor of Ahaz and the 13th king of Judah (reigning c. 715–686 B.C.E.), was known for his religious reforms and attempts to gain independence from the Assyrians.“
As always, Bible Rebel keeps a watchdog’s eye on the latest news from the world of biblical archaeology and brings it to our readers. Stay tuned.
Analyses of the Durupinar formation near Mount Ararat in Turkey revealed traces of marine deposits and a ship-shaped structure matching biblical dimensions of Noah’s Ark.
From Townhall.com – This past week, the Jerusalem Post reported that “analyses revealed traces of marine deposits and a ship-shaped structure matching biblical dimensions” of Noah’s Ark. The “ship-shaped” mound, called the “Durupinar formation,” was first discovered in 1948 by a Kurdish farmer near Mount Ararat’s summit in Turkey. Modern studies beginning in 2021 have found more convincing evidence. Thus, if this discovery is Noah’s Ark, one can anticipate more “magic show” tales waiting to be revealed through advanced archaeological technology.
Rephaim Valley Location
A study suggests the biblical Valley of Rephaim may lie closer to the ancient Philistine city of Gath, rather than near Jerusalem as traditionally thought.
From Greek Reporter – A new study challenges long-held beliefs about the biblical Valley of Rephaim, offering a fresh perspective on its location and historical meaning. Researcher Sabine Kleiman suggests the valley may lie east of the Elah Valley, closer to the ancient Philistine city of Gath, rather than near Jerusalem as traditionally thought.
Bible Rebel continues to update readers from the world of biblical archaeology. Here’s the latest.
Ancient Gold Processing Facility Discovered in Egypt
Archaeologists have uncovered a 3,000-year-old gold processing complex at Jabal Sukari, near the Red Sea. The site includes grinding and crushing stations, filtration and sedimentation basins, and ancient clay furnaces used for gold smelting. This discovery sheds light on the mining techniques used by ancient Egyptians. See more from Bible Archaeology Report
Ancient Tomb in the Negev Highlands
A 2,500-year-old tomb compound was discovered in the Negev Highlands, containing the remains of dozens of individuals. The burials are believed to be associated with trade caravans from Arabia, as the site is situated at a junction of ancient trade routes. Artifacts found include copper and silver jewelry, Egyptian scarabs, and alabaster beehive jars. See more from Bible Archaeology Report
Deciphered Dead Sea Scroll Reveals 364-Day Calendar
Researchers have recently deciphered one of the last two remaining Dead Sea Scrolls. Written in code, the scroll describes a 364-day calendar used by the Qumran community that lived in the Judean Desert. See more from BIBLICAL ARCHAEOLOGY SOCIETY
Israel’s Oldest Chinese Inscription Found on Mt. Zion
Excavators with the Israel Antiquities Authority and the German Protestant Institute of Archaeology made an unexpected discovery while excavating on Jerusalem’s Mt. Zion. They found Israel’s oldest Chinese inscription, adding a new layer to the historical connections between these regions. See more from BIBLICAL ARCHAEOLOGY SOCIETY
Editors note: the guest article appearing here does not necessarily reflect the views of Bible Rebel editors or other guest authors and contributors. Bible Rebel seeks to present a wide range of ideas and viewpoints in order to fulfill our mission to provide resources for “Curious Fearless Faith”.
In Part I, we asked: Is America’s zeal for war fueled by a misguided interpretation of prophecy? The answer is hidden in “The Day of the Lord,” the most abused of all Old Testament prophecy.
The Day of the Lord
Throughout biblical history, no event held more significance for the ancient Children of Israel than “The Day of the Lord.” This phrase, along with its companion phrases, “The Lord’s Day” and “in that Day,” appear over 200 times in scripture. Twenty prophets describe it in detail, including Isaiah, Ezekiel, Zephaniah, and Zechariah—the writers of the five prophecies we began examining in Part I of this series. Jesus illustrated “that Day” in Matthew 24 and Luke 21, and John wrote an entire book about it—the Book of Revelation (see Rev. 1:10).
“The Day of the Lord” refers to the future Tribulation and the Messiah’s return with his armies to reclaim the earth. During this time, Christ will resurrect the righteous of Israel (and others justified by faith), known as the “Remnant” of Israel. He returns to fight for the restoration of their lands, culminating in the establishment of a new, heavenly Jerusalem.
For these faithful individuals, this will be a day of reward and reunification, encompassing all believing Children of Israel throughout history—not just those within modern Israel’s borders at any given time.
The Great Incentive
This day serves as recompense for those who sacrificed to protect the Christ-line, the lineage leading to the Messiah. They were entrusted with this hope from the Patriarchs: Abraham’s hope was clear: “For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God” (Hebrews 11:10, NIV).
The Bible does not mention Abraham or his descendants awaiting a man-made political state in 1948.
Throughout the Old Testament, when the Children of Israel strayed, God sent prophets to remind them of their great hope: the coming Messiah who, with them, would reclaim their lands. Similar to us today, the Lord’s coming was their great Hope.
Each time the unfaithful Children of Israel lost their lands and carried into captivity, God provided prophetic words reminding them of His eternal promise to return these lands to the Remnant after the First Resurrection
For the faith-filled Children of Israel, the Day of the Lord remained their enduring hope.
Alarmingly, many of these 200 scriptures today are being misused to “document” the formation of the State of Israel in 1948. In reality, they refer to a future time.
If the scripture is to be our sole arbiter of truth, God will restore these lands to Abraham and his believing children only once: at Christ’s return.
The Day of the Lord -or- 1948?
As readers, how can we distinguish if a prophet is speaking of The Day of the Lord or some other event?
The key is in the context.
The Day of the Lord is characterized by unparalleled, cataclysmic events and cosmic disturbances that set it apart from any other earthly occurrence.
When studying a prophecy, check for these telltale events in its surrounding chapters:
Key Events Associated with the Day of the Lord
1. The Rapture: Many Christians believe that the Day of the Lord will commence with believers being “Gathered Together” with Christ in the air, an event commonly known as “the Rapture” (2 Thessalonians 2:1). This is distinct from Christ’s physical return to earth in Revelation 19.
2. Revealing of the Antichrist: Following the Rapture, the Antichrist will be revealed, positioning himself in the Jerusalem Temple and proclaiming himself as God (2 Thessalonians 2:4). Global tyranny and executions will ensue.
3. Global Turmoil: This period will be marked by significant tribulation, including wars, diseases, and cosmic disturbances.
4. Christ’s Second Coming: Jesus will return bodily to earth, leading to the Battle of Armageddon, where forces opposing God will be defeated. This event will also usher in the resurrection of the faithful (Revelation 19:11–21).
5. Millennial Kingdom: Christ will establish a thousand-year reign on Earth, often referred to as the Millennial Kingdom, characterized by peace and righteousness (Revelation 20:1–6).
6. Final Rebellion and Judgment: After the Millennium, there will be a final military uprising against God, which He will swiftly defeat. This will lead to the final judgment and the establishment of a new heaven and new earth (Revelation 20:7–21:1).
These events are often introduced in prophetic literature with the phrase “in that day,” signaling their significance.
By carefully examining the context and specific descriptions within prophetic passages, readers can discern whether a prophet is referring to The Day of the Lord or another event.
It is important to note that none of these cataclysmic events occurred in 1948 or at any time since. Scripture indicates that the true gathering and spiritual transformation of Israel will happen after the First Resurrection, which follows Christ’s return to earth.
Reexamining Prophecies
In the third and final segment of this series, we will re-look at these five commonly quoted prophecies in light of The Day of the Lord. By examining these scriptures in their surrounding contexts, each individual reader will discern for himself or herself if these prophecies refer to the events of 1948, or instead to the future Day of the Lord.
Bible Rebel continues to keep a watchdog’s eye on international and domestic news and events. Here’s some of the latest.
President Donald Trump Signs Executive Order Combating Antisemitism This order directs federal resources to address the rise in antisemitism, particularly following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel. The order calls for federal agencies to report actions that can be used to fight antisemitism within 60 days and emphasizes the need to quell pro-Hamas vandalism and intimidation. – The Hill
Netanyahu Heads to U.S. for Ceasefire Talks with Trump Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is heading to the United States to meet with President Donald Trump to discuss the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal. The ceasefire has allowed for a surge in international humanitarian aid to Gaza. – Al Jazeera
American-Israeli Keith Siegel, 2 Other Hostages Released in Gaza American-Israeli dual national Keith Siegel was among three hostages released by militants in Gaza as part of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire agreement. The hostages were handed over to Red Cross personnel before being transferred to Israeli forces. – CBS News
Father of Released Israeli Hostage Thanks Trump The father of newly released Israeli hostage Agam Berger thanked U.S. President Donald Trump for his efforts in securing his daughter’s freedom. The release was part of the ongoing ceasefire and hostage-exchange deal between Hamas and Israel. AP News
Here is Jesus, in Matthew 24:6-7, teaching his disciples about the end times. But also encouraging them to ‘see that ye be not troubled’.
“And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.” (KJV)
Much of what our Lord was prophesying here had to do with the coming destruction of Jerusalem and the Jewish Temple, which would happen within 40 years or so of this prophesy and his imminent death and resurrection.
However there is no reason not to consider that he was also making a double prophecy, which is fairly common in the Bible, extending the meaning here to also warn of the time immediately preceding the Final Judgement, which is still future as of this blog post.
Let’s remember though, that people and nations in all times and places have experienced wars, famine, earthquakes, and pestilence. This prophecy is referring to a specific people in a specific place and time(s)- the people are those disciples living in the place, Jerusalem and Judea, at the time preceding the destruction of the Temple in 70 AD and also in some future time right before The End.
Even so, as watchdogs living in this time and place we should always keep our ears tuned ‘rumors of wars’ and be aware of the seasons of God’s plans and purposes.
So here is a brief recap of some of the international war news happening right now.
Ukraine-Russia War
Russian drones targeted Kharkiv, but Ukrainian air defenses intercepted a Shahed drone during the attack. Additionally, Ukrainian forces claimed to have killed 21 North Korean soldiers supporting Russian troops in a standoff in Russia’s Kursk region: Sky News
Gaza Conflict
Tens of thousands of Palestinians have returned to northern Gaza for the first time since the early weeks of the war with Hamas. The ceasefire remains fragile as both sides trade blame over deal violations: AP News
Democratic Republic of Congo
Rebels have moved into the key city of Goma, leading to thousands fleeing the fighting as the situation continues to escalate: AP News
Sudan’s Darfur Region
About 70 people were killed in an attack on a hospital in Sudan’s Darfur region, according to the WHO chief. The ongoing conflict in Darfur continues to cause significant humanitarian crises: Associated Press
Here’s a brief recap of some of the more recent discoveries and news items from the world of Biblical archaeology. Stay tuned for this regular feature appearing in the Bible Rebel blog.
Tel Dan Stele Displayed in Oklahoma The Tel Dan Stele, an artifact confirming the historical existence of King David, was exhibited at Herbert W. Armstrong College in Edmond, Oklahoma, from September 22 to November 25, 2024. This significant artifact provides evidence of the Davidic dynasty mentioned in the Bible. The Jerusalem Post
Ancient Stone with Greek Inscriptions Discovered in Upper Galilee A 1,700-year-old volcanic stone bearing ancient Greek carvings was found in Upper Galilee, a region associated with Jesus’ miracles. The stone, serving as a boundary marker from the Roman Empire, references two previously unknown settlements, Tirathas and Golgol, dating back to the reign of Caesar Marcus Aurelius Alexander. This find offers insights into Roman administration and land ownership in the area. The Sun
Discovery of a 2,700-Year-Old Seal in Jerusalem In September 2024, archaeologists uncovered a 2,700-year-old seal in Jerusalem. Such seals offer valuable insights into the administrative practices and personal identities during the First Temple period. Bible Archaeology
