3,800-year-old amulet unearthed by toddler in Israel shedding light on biblical times and ancient civilisations

This little scarab connects us to a world 3,800 years ago. Experts say it sheds light on the close ties between Canaan and Egypt during the Bronze Age.It’s not every day that a toddler makes a discovery that experts call “of biblical proportions.”

Yet, that’s exactly what happened in Israel. Three-year-old Ziv Nitzan, while strolling with her family along Tel Azeka in the Judaean Foothills, spotted a small, curious object in the sand.

At first glance, it seemed like just another stone. But when she picked it up and rubbed the sand away, it became clear that this was no ordinary rock. Archaeologists later confirmed it was a 3,800-year-old Canaanite amulet that might have been used as a seal or a protective talisman.

What Ziv’s amulet reveals about ancient religious and social practices

The amulet Ziv discovered is shaped like a scarab beetle, a design considered sacred in Ancient Egypt. The dung beetle might sound odd today, but in Egyptian culture, it symbolised new life. The scarab rolls its dung ball, lays eggs in it, and from that small mound emerges new life.Experts explain that the Egyptian name for the beetle literally derives from the verb “to come into being” or “to be created.” This particular amulet shows how Egyptian symbolism influenced Canaanite culture.

Scarabs were often found in graves, homes, and public buildings, hinting at both religious belief and social status.Ziv bent down among countless stones. She picked this one. A simple act. Her sister Omer recounted the moment with pride, explaining how the family quickly realised it was an archaeological treasure.The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) was notified immediately. Ziv was awarded a certificate of appreciation for her find.

Professor Oded Lipschits of Tel Aviv University, who has been excavating Azekah for 15 years, called the discovery “remarkable” and noted that it adds to a long list of Egyptian and Canaanite finds in the area.

Tel Azeka: Unearthing stories from the Bible and beyond

Tel Azeka is not just any hill. It’s the site of the ancient town of Azekah, mentioned in 1 Samuel 17:1 during the famous battle between David and Goliath. Archaeologists have been digging here for decades, uncovering layers of history from the Middle Bronze Age through the Late Bronze Age.Walking through the area, it’s easy to imagine armies and ancient towns bustling with life. And now, thanks to Ziv’s sharp eyes, a new piece of that story has emerged.