Despite the Torah, until now there has been little physical archaeological evidence for the Kingdom founded by David. Now, Eilat Mazar, director of excavations at the City of David’s site in the old city of Jerusalem, has found the seal — a “bulla” — from a Judean King. “The bible describes King Hezekiah as one of the most important kings after King David, “He was rich, daring, stood up against Assyrians. A very impressive king.”
The site itself, along with the nearby city of David, is contentious, because it is an Israeli archaeological dig in a Palestinian neighborhood in East Jerusalem. Critics say the dig is politically motivated to extend Jewish claims over East Jerusalem and the Old City: archaeological finds become historical justifications. Palestinians have taught their children that David’s Kingdom was a myth.
Eilat Mazar: “The seal of the king was so important. It could have been a matter of life or death, so it’s hard to believe that anyone else had the permission to use the seal,” Eilat Mazar, who directs excavations at the City of David’s summit, told CNN.
“Therefore, it’s very reasonable to assume we are talking about an impression made by the King himself, using his own ring.
The seal is believed to have been discarded from a royal building, with the rubbish.