If you’re a fan of ancient history, archaeology, or early Christianity, you’re going to want to check out the latest exhibit at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C.
The museum has teamed up with the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) to present a groundbreaking discovery that dates back to the third century: *The Megiddo Mosaic: Foundations of Faith*. This exhibit is giving visitors a closer look at one of the most important archaeological finds related to early Christian worship.
So, what’s so special about this mosaic? Well, for starters, it’s part of the floor of what experts say is the oldest Christian worship site ever unearthed. This incredible discovery was made 20 years ago during a routine archaeological dig in Israel’s Megiddo prison.
As construction workers were preparing for a new wing, they stumbled upon what turned out to be a major piece of Christian history buried right under their feet! The Megiddo Mosaic offers a rare, tangible connection to early Christian practices, and now, for the first time, it’s on display for the public to see.
The mosaic itself is packed with historical significance. Not only does it feature one of the earliest instances of the fish symbol—a classic Christian icon—but it also contains inscriptions that include the phrase “God Jesus Christ,” which is the first known archaeological use of this term.
Talk about a window into history! Visitors will also learn about the individuals behind the mosaic, including five women who were specifically named in it, underscoring their prominent roles in the early church.
And there’s more. The exhibit offers more than just a look at the physical mosaic; through animated footage, you’ll get to experience what the site would have looked like in the third century. You’ll see how the building that housed the mosaic once stood and get a real sense of how early Christian worship unfolded.
Bobby Duke, the interim chief curator at the Museum of the Bible, emphasized the significance of the Megiddo Mosaic, likening its importance for early Christian historians to that of the Dead Sea Scrolls for Bible scholars. That’s some serious historical weight!
If you’re intrigued by the origins of Christianity or fascinated by how ancient artifacts reveal the lives of those long past, this is an exhibit you won’t want to miss. But don’t wait too long—the *Megiddo Mosaic* will only be on display at the Museum of the Bible for nine months before it heads to other locations. Eventually, it will return to its original home in Israel for a permanent exhibition at the site where it was found.
Make sure you carve out some time to experience this remarkable piece of history up close!
