Biblical History of Tel-Dan Old Thesis

Studies have shown that despite the biblical appurtenance, the evidence of life in Tel-Dan is obvious starting with as early and sixth century BC. Of the utmost archeological importance however is the offering of evidence relative to existence of King David as a real figure, as stated by Jesus, and not just a mythical character, as initially believed by some researchers. The inscriptions found in Tel-Dan mention the House of David and are written in ancient Aramaic. Most of these inscriptions were found in front of the gate complex and the largest of them reveal a size of 32 by 22 centimeters. The stele found was broken by time and past conflicts, but it represents a great value as it is the first laic evidence to suggest the existence of King David. "Although the broken stele raises serious historical problems, it is one of the most important written finds in Israel and the first non-biblical text which mentions the House of David by name."

Other archeological sites in Tel-Dan which have captured the interest of researchers include the Israelite gates, the remains of the Palace at Tel Dan, or various smaller pieces, such as Cananite painted face, altars or small figurines and other elements incurved in stone.

4. Understanding of the Site

The religious and archeological values of the site in Tel-Dan offer insight into the importance of the location. Emerged as a small community to then become a cultural center to finally perish, the analysis of Tel-Dan plays a crucial part in the discovery and "recovery of ancient Israel."

A first glance at it might not offer sufficient information to understating the location, but it is certain that it will raise the interest of any specialized archeologist, as well as that of a novice researcher. The Tel Dan is surrounded by mystery and a deeper look into the issue will not only help better understand the site, but will also offer support in understanding the Christian religion and the bible.

References:

Tel-Dan, Camp S'dei Chemed International, http://www.campsci.com/iguide/tel_dan.htm last accessed on June 1, 2009

Tel Dan, Common Ground, http://www.co-ground.com/common/teldan.html last accessed on June 1, 2009

Tel Dan -- Archeology in Israel, The Jewish Magazine, http://www.jewishmag.com/59mag/dan/dan.htm last accessed on June 1, 2009

Tel Dan Excavations, Word Press, http://teldan.wordpress.com / last accessed on June 1, 2009

Tel Dan Stele, Bible History, http://www.bible-history.com/archaeology/israel/tel-dan-stele.html last accessed on June 1, 2009

Dan -- Location Profile, Walking in their Sandals, http://www.ancientsandals.com/overviews/dan.htm last accessed on June 1, 2009

Tel-Dan, Camp S'dei Chemed International

Tel Dan, Common Ground

Tel Dan Excavations, Word Press

Dan -- Location Profile, Walking in their Sandals

Tel Dan Stele, Bible History

Tel Dan -- Archeology in Israel, The Jewish Magazine, http://www.jewishmag.com/59mag/dan/dan.htm

Tel Dan Excavations, Word Press