Student Finds 3,300-Year-Old Egyptian Scarab During Trip

The Israel Antiquities Authority announced on Tuesday that a 17-year-old American student found a 3,300-year-old Egyptian amulet in the Judean lowlands. The artifact, a scarab seal, was located at Tel Gezer National Park. Shiloh Attoun, a participant in a Jewish National Fund-USA study-abroad program, made the discovery during his first visit to Israel. He had arrived in the country just two days before the find.

Attoun was walking with Benji Hain, the program's dean of students, when he spotted a small spherical object on the ground. Hain recognized the item's potential value immediately. The pair reported the discovery to the IAA on the spot. This rapid action allowed officials to collect the artifact for the National Treasures of Israel. Attoun received a certificate of appreciation for his careful handling and prompt reporting. Hain and other program instructors were also praised for their quick response.

Prof. Ido Koch of Tel Aviv University examined the object and dated it to the Late Bronze Age. The scarab is decorated with two cobra motifs, known as uraeus symbols. Koch explained that these images served as protective and royal emblems in ancient Egypt and the southern Levant. The amulet also features a semi-ellipse representing the hieroglyphic sign for "lord." A similar scarab depicting three snakes was previously excavated at Tel Megiddo. These artifacts reflect the cultural influence of ancient Egypt over Canaan approximately 3,500 years ago.

In ancient Egyptian culture, the scarab beetle held a sacred status. It symbolized new life and creation. The insect was associated with the god who forms life. Its name derives from a verb meaning to come into being. Tel Gezer was a major Canaanite city during this period. It controlled strategic trade routes in the Shephelah region. The site is now a national park managed by the Israel Nature and Parks Authority.

Amit Melman, the IAA's Central Region educational director, described the find as a direct link between students and history. "Shiloh’s story is a charming example of the connection forged between the young people who come to study in Israel and the country’s history and archaeology, through firsthand experience in the field," Melman said. The authority emphasized that such objects should generally be left in place when found in the field. This practice allows archaeologists to document the original context. Attoun’s case demonstrated how responsible reporting preserves national heritage.