In 1986, two brothers found a 2,000-year-old boat in the Sea of Galilee that has since been called the “Jesus Boat.” Share this article Share this article Facebook X LinkedIn Reddit Bluesky Email Copy link Link copied Bookmark this Comment
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This ancient fishing boat, found sunken in the Sea of Galilee, offers a unique glimpse into the history of navigation during the time of Jesus Christ. Although there is no conclusive evidence that this is the boat used by Jesus and his disciples, it is a typical example of a vessel that was common in the first century CE, and is often referred to as the “Jesus Boat.”
The artifact is currently on display at the Yigal Alon Museum in Kibbutz Ginosar, Israel. According to Aleteia, the boat was built from cedar planks joined together with tenons and mortises, a typical technique for carpentry during that period.
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The exhibition evokes a special emotional response in many visitors, especially believers, providing a tangible connection both to the ministry of Jesus and to the historical context of the Gospels.
The museum offers educational exhibits and a documentary that details the construction of the vessel, its excavation, and its historical significance. Some visitors also participate in tours of Lake Galilee, where those seeking a deeper dive into history can sail across the lake in a modern replica of the vessel that Jesus likely used.
The vessel's flat bottom allowed it to approach shallow waters near the shore to fish. A crew of four steered it by rowing, and a mast made it easier to control the sail, Mirror US reports.
Boats like these are mentioned frequently in the Gospels, some 50 times, highlighting their significant role in the life and ministry of Jesus.
During a severe drought, amateur archaeologists brothers Moshe and Yuval Lufan headed to the Sea of Galilee to look for artifacts. After finding an object sticking out of the mud, the fishermen reported it to the Israel Antiquities Authority.
The team quickly realized the historical importance of the shipwreck to both Christians and Jews, leading to archaeological excavations. Rumors soon surfaced that the ship might be loaded with gold, necessitating a 24-hour security guard at the site.
Over the course of 12 days, archaeologists painstakingly removed the mud and eventually discovered a remarkably well-preserved 2,000-year-old boat.
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Radiocarbon dating showed that the vessel was built between 40 BC and 50 AD. The 8.5 metre long and 2.2 metre wide vessel was lined with fibreglass and foam before being moved to another location.
It spent 12 years immersed in a protective wax bath before it was ready for display in the museum.
Upon further inspection, it was found that the boat was made of 10 different types of wood. This could indicate a shortage of wood at the time, or that the boat was built from scraps, or even that it had gone through multiple repairs, according to Wikipedia.
The design style of the vessel matches descriptions found in Roman literature, biblical texts and ancient mosaics.
Sourse: www.express.co.uk
