Unearthing the Truth: Archaeological Evidence Supports Biblical Account of Canaanite Child Sacrifice
Recent archaeological findings at the Canaanite site of Gezer, discovered by British archaeologist Stuart McAllister, reveal the disturbing practice of child sacrifice. This evidence aligns with biblical accounts of Canaanite worship practices and God's judgment against them, shedding light on the historical context of these ancient stories.
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The Excavation at Gezer: McAllister's discoveries at Gezer include 12 standing stones, a large stone with a flat top and a basin carved into it, and multiple infant jar burials containing burned baby bones. These findings suggest that the site was a Canaanite high place for worship and sacrifice.
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Biblical Connection: McAllister used biblical verses such as Numbers 13:29, Exodus 23, and Deuteronomy 12:31 to identify the site as an Amorite city that engaged in child sacrifice. The Bible condemns this practice, calling it sinful and detestable to the Lord.
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Archaeological Confirmations: Other renowned archaeologists, like Kathleen Kenyon, have also found evidence of child sacrifice in Canaanite cities such as Jericho, reinforcing the biblical account of this practice.
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Changing Interpretations: As archaeology has become more secular over time, alternative explanations for the standing stones and other artifacts have been proposed, such as symbols of alliances between city-states. However, these interpretations downplay the strong evidence of child sacrifice and distance the findings from their biblical context.
Analysis The archaeological evidence of child sacrifice found at Gezer and other Canaanite sites supports the Bible's claims regarding the Canaanites' evil acts. These findings also emphasize the biblical themes of sin, judgment, and the need for redemption through faith in God.
Conclusion Archaeological discoveries at Gezer and other Canaanite sites confirm the biblical account of child sacrifice and God's judgment against the Canaanites. These discoveries serve as a sobering reminder of humanity's sinful nature and the need for redemption through faith in Jesus Christ.