description Mesha Stele Overview
The Mesha Stele is a basalt stone slab inscribed with the account of King Mesha of Moab. Dated to approximately 840 BC, it provides a rare contemporary perspective on events in ancient Israel during the reign of Omri. The stele documents Mesha’s military campaigns and religious renovations, offering valuable insight for archaeologists and historians studying the Iron Age Levant and the relationships between Moab and Israel.
help Mesha Stele FAQ
What is the historical significance of the Mesha Stele?
The Mesha Stele is a basalt stone bearing a Moabite inscription dating back to around 840 BC. It is highly significant to historians because it provides an early extra-biblical reference to the Israelite God, Yahweh.
Who was the Mesha Stele created by?
The stele was set up by King Mesha of Moab to celebrate his military and building victories. The text specifically details his rebellion against the Omri dynasty of the Kingdom of Israel.
Where was the Mesha Stele discovered?
The ancient artifact was discovered in the 19th century at the archaeological site of Dhiban in modern-day Jordan. Local Bedouins shattered the stone after a dispute, but it was later reconstructed.
Where is the Mesha Stele currently displayed?
The original reconstructed Mesha Stele is currently housed in the Louvre Museum in Paris. Scholars relied heavily on a paper-mâché impression taken before the stone was broken to read its text accurately.
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