Recent News of Note:

Supporters of James Ossuary Inscription's Authenticity Vindicated

The Biblical Archaeology Review Web site is maintaining a page for recent news regarding the "James ossuary" and the so-called "forgery trial of the century. See "Supporters of James Ossuary Inscription's Authenticity Vindicated." (offsite link*)

Leprosy Confirmed in Jesus' Time

Although many seminaries even today still teach that the so-called leprosy recorded in the New Testament was some other form of illness, a recent discovery confirms the biblical account.

"An Israeli archaeologist has found what he says are the oldest remains of a leprosy victim to be uncovered in the Middle East, buried in a biblical valley whose name became a synonym for Hell." On MSNBC (offsite link*, December 31, 2003): Ancient leper's bones found in Jerusalem: Discovery proves that malady existed in biblical times

Debate Continues over "James ossuary"

After any discovery, it is normal in scholarship for a debate to continue over several years, even decades, until a consensus is finally reached. With controversial discoveries, the debate often spills over into the popular press.

• On Biblical Archaeology Review (July/August 2003): "New Tests Bolster Case for Authenticity"
• On Washington Post (June 19, 2003): "Agency: Inscription Citing Jesus Is Fake"
• On Beliefnet (June 18, 2003): "Of Politics and Patina: Is the Case Closed for the James Ossuary?"
• On Archaeology (June 18, 2003): "GOLD DUST AND JAMES BOND"

* Offsite links will open in a new browser window, and are offered as a courtesy to our readers. Our providing these links does not represent agreement, certification or endorsement of the positions taken or the content of the linked sites.