Historic Tel Dan Stele Arrives at New York’s Jewish Museum, Highlighting King David’s Era

The Jewish Museum in New York City is currently showcasing one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in biblical history: the Tel Dan Stele. This ancient stone fragment, dating back to the 9th century BCE, offers the earliest extra-biblical reference to King David and his lineage. On loan from the Israel Museum in Jerusalem, the artifact will be on view until January 5, 2024.

Measuring 12 by 13 inches and carved from basalt, the Tel Dan Stele is believed to commemorate the military victories of King Hazael of Aram, an ancient kingdom located in present-day Syria. Among its inscriptions is a reference to the "House of David," confirming the existence of a dynasty linked to the biblical King David. Scholars regard this discovery as groundbreaking, as it provides tangible evidence of the historical roots of the First Temple period, long described in biblical texts but rarely corroborated by archaeology.

Discovered in northern Israel in 1993, the Tel Dan Stele shattered previous doubts about the existence of King David as a historical figure. The inscription reads, in part, "[I killed Jeho]ram son of [Ahab] king of Israel, and [I] killed [Ahaz]iahu son of [Jehoram kin]g of the House of David." These words are written in Aramaic, using the ancient Phoenician alphabet, emphasizing the stele’s extraordinary age and cultural significance.

James Snyder, the director of the Jewish Museum and former head of the Israel Museum, highlighted the importance of this artifact in connecting material culture with biblical history. “What makes the Tel Dan Stele so important is that it’s the oldest archaeological evidence of the existence of the House of David,” he explained.

The First Temple, attributed to King Solomon, David’s son, was built in the 10th century BCE and later destroyed during the Babylonian siege in 586 BCE. While no direct archaeological evidence of the First Temple itself has been uncovered, artifacts like the Tel Dan Stele provide a vital link to this era, reinforcing historical narratives foundational to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

The stele is part of a larger exhibition that integrates historical artifacts with contemporary art, reflecting the Jewish Museum’s commitment to exploring global Jewish culture across time. Nearby, visitors can view a moving video installation by Israeli artist Michal Rovner, offering a poignant contrast between the beauty of nature and the violence of history.

The arrival of the Tel Dan Stele in New York comes at a particularly charged moment. After the recent October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, Snyder underscored the stele’s broader significance. “The House of David has equal importance to the three monotheistic faiths that emerged in the region,” he noted. “It represents a monarchy that envisioned and enabled the unfolding of those traditions.”

The exhibition provides a unique opportunity to witness the intersection of archaeology, faith, and history. Visitors are encouraged to reflect on the enduring legacy of King David and the cultural heritage that continues to shape the world today.

Take this chance to explore the Jewish Museum’s extraordinary collection and experience a tangible connection to ancient history. Share this story or subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed about Israel’s rich cultural and historical contributions.