Discovery of a Prehistoric Dam Near the Site Associated With Jesus’ Miracle of Healing a Blind Man
Recently uncovered in Jerusalem, an ancient dam rises nearly 40 feet and extends the length of a small building. This structure is now the largest of its kind discovered in Israel and the oldest known within the city.
Constructed around 805–795 BC, it is believed to have been built under the reign of King Joash or King Amaziah. Its primary function was to control the waters of the Gihon Spring, safeguarding the settlement below from flooding.
The dam’s very scale indicates a society confronting a climate crisis. It represents a monumental engineering response to unpredictable rains and the persistent threat of destructive floods.
The discovery was made just steps from the historic Pool of Siloam. This location is referenced in the Gospel of John as the site of one of Jesus’s intimate miracles.
This find forges a tangible connection between biblical narrative and physical archaeology. It transforms ancient scripture into a touchable landscape.
The dam joins a growing collection of archaeological discoveries, from forgotten fortifications to submerged cities. Each finding adds a new layer to our understanding of the past.
In the shadow of Jerusalem’s enduring walls, history continues to reveal itself. This ancient structure stands as a testament to a civilization’s ingenuity and resilience, proving the past is never silent.
