Ancient earthquake evidence aligns with biblical accounts
Scientists suggest that about 2,800 years ago, Jerusalem, particularly the City of David, might have been affected by a powerful earthquake. This event is described in the biblical Books of Amos and Zechariah, but until recently, researchers did not have evidence to confirm these accounts.
As noted 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 City of David National Park. This period coincides with the reign of King Uzziah, also known as Azariah or Ozias, who is mentioned in the Bible.
In this layer, archaeologists found a row of broken vessels, including bowls, kitchen utensils, and jars, which were destroyed by collapsing walls. However, no traces of fire were found, raising doubts among researchers about a potential attack on the city by invaders.
Traces confirm the biblical story
The discovery of similar destruction in the region supports the possibility that a large earthquake occurred in the southern Levant about 2,800 years ago. Researchers believe these findings may serve as evidence of the historicity of the biblical story.
Archaeologist Joe Uziel from the Israel Antiquities Authority, in an interview with Live Science in 2021, suggested that although Jerusalem was not the earthquake's epicentre, the event's effects severely impacted it. He believes the account in the Bible highlights the dramatic effect of this event on the people of that time. The discoveries also suggest that the inhabitants subsequently succeeded in rebuilding the city, including its walls and buildings.
