Israeli archaeologists find a seal impression of 'governor of Jerusalem'

   430

The artifact inscribed in the Hebrew script as "belonging to the governor of the city" was most likely attached to the shipment or sent as a souvenir on behalf of the governor, the most prominent local position in Jerusalem at that time, the Israel Antiquities Authority said.

The impression, the size of a small coin, depicts two standing men, facing each other in a mirror, and wearing striped clothing reaching to the knees. It was discovered near the square of the Western Wall of Judaism in the Old City of Jerusalem.

Governors of Jerusalem, appointed by the king, are mentioned twice in the Bible, in 2 Kings, which it is said that Joshua held this position, and in 2 Chronicles, which mentions Masseiah in the post during the reign of Josiah.

The announcement of the Antiquarian authorities appeared a few weeks after U.S. President Donald Tramp recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, a decision that abolished a multi-year policy on the status of the city and triggered Palestinian protests and international concerns.