A 3,500-year-old Egyptian scarab amulet has been uncovered near Hod Hasharon by 12-year-old Dafna Filshteiner during a family hike. The artifact, dating back to Egypt’s New Kingdom period, is now on display at the Jay and Jeanie Schottenstein National Campus for the Archaeology of Israel in Jerusalem.
The discovery occurred near Tel Qana, where Dafna was searching for porcupine quills and smooth stones. Initially, she mistook the object for a regular rock, but after noticing its decorative details, she insisted it was more significant. “I showed it to my mother, who thought it was just a stone or bead. But then I saw a decoration and stubbornly insisted it was more,” Dafna explained.
After conducting online research, the Filshteiners contacted the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA), and experts confirmed the artifact’s historical value. Dr. Yitzhak Paz, a Bronze Age specialist at the IAA, identified the scarab as a symbol of ancient Egypt, dating back to approximately 3,500 years ago.
The scarab was a sacred symbol in Egyptian culture, representing Khepri, the god of the rising sun, and symbolizing life, growth, and renewal. Egyptians also associated the beetle with creation, as it appeared to bring life from dung balls. The amulet found by Dafna features a scarab, two scorpions, and other symbols, including the “nefer” symbol meaning “good” or “chosen,” and a depiction of a royal staff. Dr. Paz noted that the scorpions were linked to the goddess Serket, protector of pregnant women.
Though scarabs were common in ancient Egypt, similar designs have been discovered outside the region, underscoring Egypt’s cultural influence. Dr. Amit Dagan and Dr. Ayelet Dayan, archaeologists working at Tel Qana, praised the find for shedding new light on Egyptian cultural influence in Israel, particularly in the Yarkon region.
In recognition of her discovery, Dafna was awarded a certificate of appreciation by the IAA. Eli Escusido, director of the authority, commended her curiosity, adding, “Now the scarab is on display in Jerusalem so everyone can enjoy it.”
The find is part of ongoing research into ancient Egyptian influence in Israel and serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of ancient civilizations.
