Biblical Archaeology Review, Spring 2025

The last decade saw exciting discoveries in the archaeology of biblical Jerusalem. Focusing on the City of David, three archaeologists summarize the most consequential finds they have uncovered. From the contentious tenth century BCE to the city’s demise at the hands of the Babylonians, archaeology continues to transform our understanding of the Holy City.

Although crucifixion was a common form of punishment in the Roman world, archaeology has provided few clues as to how the brutal practice was performed. And although the Gospel accounts use vague terminology when describing Jesus’s execution, a longstanding Christian tradition assumes bodies were nailed to the cross. Close inspection of the historical evidence, however, indicates that nailing was probably introduced only after Jesus’s time.

Across five decades, BAR has treated its readers to the latest and greatest discoveries in biblical archaeology, from the Tel Dan Stele that references David’s dynasty to the Herodian fortress where John the Baptist was beheaded. In this special anniversary feature, we highlight eight groundbreaking discoveries that provided new and sometimes unexpected insights into the biblical past.

Since its founding, biblical archaeology has often been viewed as a scientific way to prove the Bible. Over the decades, however, the discipline has changed dramatically. By focusing on the lives of ordinary people, biblical archaeologists now seek to establish the broader context within which the Bible emerged. These efforts are transforming how we understand life in the biblical world and providing fresh insights into the meaning of the texts themselves.