9,000-Year-Old Six-Fingered Shaman Woman Discovered Near Jerusalem

A fascinating archaeological discovery near Jerusalem is offering a rare glimpse into the spiritual life of Neolithic communities from 9,000 years ago. Excavations at the Motza site, conducted by the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) between 2018 and 2020, uncovered the remains of a woman who may have been a shaman, identified by her unique physical trait six fingers on her left hand.

The tomb, dating back to the Pre-Pottery Neolithic B period, was found in preparation for the construction of Highway 16. Researchers believe the woman’s extra digit may have been viewed as a mark of spiritual distinction, a characteristic often revered in ancient societies.

Artifacts buried alongside her, including green stone necklaces and mother-of-pearl jewelry, further suggest her elevated status. “The discovery of the ancient shaman's tomb in Motza opens a window into the spiritual world of communities that lived approximately 10,000 years ago,” said Eli Eskosido, director of the IAA. “These remains show how complex and rich the cultural beliefs of ancient humanity were.”

Other burials at the site reveal the deep spiritual traditions of the Neolithic people. Many graves contained stone bracelets, pendants, and beads made from exotic materials like alabaster and green stones. Researchers suggest these bracelets were worn by children and played a role in coming-of-age ceremonies, similar to modern transition rituals like Bar and Bat Mitzvah.

Burials were often placed within homes, under floors, and near walls, indicating a close connection between daily life and spiritual beliefs. Public buildings in the settlement appear to have been used for communal rituals, possibly including shamanic ceremonies. A significant number of these structures were built near water sources, reinforcing the role of water in Neolithic religious practices.

The Neolithic era was a transformative period in human history, marking the transition from hunter-gatherer societies to settled agricultural communities. This shift influenced not only economic life but also belief systems, as reflected in burial customs and ritual objects. “Through personal objects such as jewelry and ritual artifacts, we can learn about the belief systems, social classes, and community roles of the time,” Eskosido added.

This remarkable find enriches our understanding of early human civilizations and their intricate spiritual traditions. As Israel continues to unearth its ancient past, discoveries like this highlight the deep cultural and historical roots of the land. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates to discovery and celebrate Israel’s rich archaeological heritage.