Israeli Toddler Uncovers 3,800-Year-Old Scarab at Biblical Site

In a moment of childhood curiosity turned historic discovery, 3.5-year-old Ziv Nitzan unearthed a 3,800-year-old Canaanite scarab while on a family outing near Tel Azekah in central Israel an archaeological site linked to the biblical battle of David and Goliath.

The Nitzan family was walking along a trail when young Ziv spotted what looked like a stone. Her sister, Omer, recounted the moment: “Out of all the stones around her, she picked up this one. When she rubbed off the sand, we saw that it looked different.”

What Ziv found was not just a rock, but a remarkably preserved scarab amulet dating back to the Middle Bronze Age. Dr. Daphna Ben-Tor, a leading expert in ancient seals, confirmed that the artifact is a Canaanite scarab, likely used as both a seal and an amulet during a time when such objects symbolized religious beliefs and social status.

Scarabs like this one were common in graves, homes, and temples, often reflecting Egypt’s cultural influence over Canaan during the second millennium BCE. Tel Azekah, where the scarab was found, has been under excavation for 15 years and continues to yield evidence of its significance during the Middle and Late Bronze Ages.

“The scarab Ziv found is part of a long list of Egyptian and Canaanite artifacts discovered here,” said Prof. Oded Lipschits of Tel Aviv University, who directs the excavation. “It illustrates the strong cultural ties between Canaan and Egypt in that era.”

In recognition of her find, the Israel Antiquities Authority awarded Ziv a certificate of appreciation. Her discovery will be featured in a special Passover exhibition in Jerusalem, joining the ranks of Israel’s treasured archaeological heritage.

Minister of Heritage Amichai Eliyahu praised the discovery as “a beautiful reminder that in the Land of Israel, even children can uncover history.” Antiquities Authority Director Eli Escusido added, “Ziv and her family deserve great appreciation. Thanks to her, everyone will be able to see and appreciate this piece of ancient history.”

From a toddler’s innocent curiosity emerged a powerful connection to Israel’s biblical and archaeological legacy a small scarab with a story that stretches back nearly four millennia.

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