Bible Archeology Discoveries

These inscriptions directly name rulers of Byblos and demonstrate the city’s cultural and religious connections with Egypt. They are valuable evidence for Phoenician royal succession and the use of alphabetic writing.

Two Phoenician royal inscriptions from Byblos name the kings Abibaal and Elibaal. The texts were added to Egyptian royal statuary: an object associated with Pharaoh Sheshonq I and a bust of Pharaoh Osorkon I. These older Egyptian objects were used for dedications by rulers of Byblos.

The inscriptions refer to the Lady of Byblos, the city’s patron goddess. They show how Byblian kings expressed their authority and religious devotion while drawing upon prestigious Egyptian objects. The precise chronology and historical circumstances of these dedications remain debated.