Publications
Culture of the Non-jewish Population of Judea in the Hellenistic Period: A Case Study of the ‘Sidonian’ Burial Cave in Maresha
Archaeological analysis of the 'Sidonian' burial cave in Maresha, Israel, reveals insights into the culture and identity of a non-Jewish population during the Hellenistic period. The study highlights the presence of Greek and Phoenician influences, with Greek language widely used in daily life alongside Araboid elements, indicating a complex cultural landscape. The cave's decoration, featuring exotic animals labeled in Greek, suggests an attempt by the family to emphasize their Greek education and status. The research also sheds light on the interactions between local communities, including Iduomeans, Arabs-Nabateans, and Egyptians, as evidenced by burial records and graffiti.
Gaming and divination in the Hellenistic Levant: the case study of the astragalus assemblage from Maresha, Israel
A detailed analysis of over 600 astragali (knuckle bones) from the Hellenistic city of Maresha, Israel, reveals their significant role in gaming and divination practices during the 4th–2nd centuries BCE. The study, which examines morphology, taphonomy, and modification, along with distribution patterns across various caves at the site, suggests that astragali were not only used as playthings but also held ritual significance. By analyzing intra-site distribution and archaeological context, researchers deciphered how these bones functioned within the broader social and cultural life of Maresha, offering new insights into Hellenistic Levantine practices.
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World Heritage Explorer > World Heritage Research > World Heritage Sites > Caves of Maresha and Bet-Guvrin in the Judean Lowlands as a Microcosm of the Land of the Caves