Jewish history

Discover the stories behind ancient artifacts: How was the Siloam Tunnel built? What are the inscriptions telling of Nebuchadnezzar's victories? And what did the letter from Lachish reveal just before it fell to the Babylonians? Here are six fascinating archaeological findings from the First Temple period.

In the Netherlands, American contractor Jayel Kapitein stumbled upon a poignant message from the Holocaust era on an old bathroom door. This discovery caught the attention of Yad Vashem. Read the full story below.

Mount Zion or Silwan? Ancient chroniclers point to Mount Zion as the burial site of King David, but some argue otherwise.

In the Galilee or faraway Persia? Where are Mordechai and Esther really buried? Hamadan or Israel? And if in Israel, who brought their bones?

Is the iconic image of the revered Maimonides, recognized globally and even featured on Israeli currency, truly authentic?

Researchers claim the famous portrait of the Baal Shem Tov is actually of a Shabbatean 'Baal Shem' from his era.

The town of Okop, famed as the birthplace of the Baal Shem Tov, appears to be a mystery.

Although it is agreed that the Baal Shem Tov passed on Shavuot, the exact day remains a topic of debate.

What happened to the Khazar Jews who converted on their king's decree, and who are the 'Red Jews'?

Unraveling the story behind a Catholic statue in Prague with Hebrew words "Holy, Holy, Holy is Hashem of Hosts" inscribed.

He will arrive on a white donkey, and he even has a house: In the Bucharim neighborhood stands the 'Messiah's House.' Just waiting for him to come.

Did the massive stone at the Western Wall require lifting, or was it simply rolled into place? And what purpose did this mammoth serve on the Temple Mount?

A gateway between the earthly and the divine Jerusalem. Discover how a mystical prayer turned the tide against Saddam Hussein.

Almost half of 'The Aleppo Codex' pages have vanished. Who is responsible?

Does the depiction of the Temple Menorah on the Arch of Titus truly reflect the original Menorah?

According to Rabbi Meir Yehuda Getz, former Rabbi of the Western Wall, he saw the Ark of the Covenant.

Exploring archaeological findings in Israel that challenge and support Jewish traditions.

Evidence of Jerusalem's deep connection can be found not just in prayer and law, but also in recent archaeological discoveries.

A genetic study finds a common gene among Kohanim, spanning Ashkenazi, Sephardi, and other Jewish communities. 70-80% share this gene, unlike any other population.

He ran a grocery store, marketed his books in a unique way, and maintained a full set of teeth even before his passing. Who was this Chofetz Chaim, destined to become the foremost Torah personality of his generation, sought after by many around the world?