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12-year-old uncovers ancient Egyptian amulet

Published 12/09/2024, 07:44 AM

HOD HASHARON - During a family hike near Tel Qana, an archaeological site in Hod Hasharon, Dafna Filshteiner, a 12-year-old Israeli girl, stumbled upon a remarkable piece of history. The young girl discovered a 3,500-year-old Egyptian scarab amulet, a find that has since been transferred to the state archives for further study.

The scarab, designed in the shape of a dung beetle, was a sacred symbol in ancient Egypt, representing new life and embodying the divine creator. The amulet features two scorpions and the nefer symbol, which signifies 'good' or 'chosen' in Egyptian. According to Dr. Yitzhak Paz, a Bronze Age expert at the Israel Antiquities Authority, the scorpion symbol is associated with the Egyptian goddess Serket, known for protecting pregnant mothers.

The discovery of the scarab provides evidence of Egyptian rule and cultural influence in the region some 3,500 years ago. Dr. Paz suggests that the amulet could have belonged to an important figure or may have been deliberately buried, although its exact context remains uncertain due to it being found on the surface.

The significance of the find is amplified by its association with Tel Qana, a site of historical importance. Archaeologists Dr. Amit Dagan and Dr. Ayelet Dayan, who are leading an excavation at the tel, believe that the scarab and other similar finds offer new insights into the nature of Egyptian influence in the Yarkon area and the region at large.

The Israel Antiquities Authority has recognized Dafna's contribution to the nation's heritage with a certificate of excellence for good citizenship. The scarab is now on display at the Jay and Jeanie Schottenstein National Campus for the Archaeology of Israel in Jerusalem, inviting the public to view this link to the ancient past.

This news is based on a press release statement from the Ministry of Tourism IL.

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