Echoes of biblical times: Jerusalem's massive earthquake 2,800 years ago finally confirmed by researchers
In the Book of Zechariah (particularly in Chapter 14, verse five), there is a notable quote: "Then you will flee to the valley between my mountains, for the valley of the mountains will go to Azel; and 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 saints with him". This passage indicates the presence of a significant earthquake during that period.
Massive earthquake in Jerusalem
During archaeological explorations, a team from the Israel Antiquities Authority discovered a layer of destruction, dated back to the 8th century BC, in the City of David National Park. This period corresponds with the reign of biblical king Uzziah of Judah, also known as Azariah or Ozias.
Within this layer, archaeologists identified a variety of crushed vessels, including bowls, kitchenware, and jars. The destruction of these items is attributed to the collapsing walls of buildings. Interestingly, no evidence of fire was found, casting doubt on the notion of the city falling victim to a hostile incursion.
Event chronicled in the Bible
However, the researchers discerned that similar devastation struck this region approximately 2,800 years ago. As mentioned in the Old Testament books, they believe these visible signs in the Southern Levant could indicate a widespread earthquake.
In an interview with Live Science, Joe Uziel, an archaeologist from the Israel Antiquities Authority, stated that while Jerusalem was likely not at the heart of the earthquake, the event would have significantly impacted the city. He further expounds that the mention of the earthquake in the Bible indicates the trauma experienced by the residents of this region. The excavation work showed that the populace reconstructed Jerusalem's towers and city walls damaged by the earthquake.
