What it’s about
An ancient 5th-century amulet has been discovered in Hadrianopolis, located in modern-day Turkey. It illustrates King Solomon on horseback triumphing over a demon, symbolizing the eternal triumph of good over evil. On the reverse side, the names of revered angels—Azrael, Gabriel, Michael, and Israfil—are inscribed, further highlighting its spiritual importance.
Why it Matters
This discovery adds a fascinating layer to the history of intercultural and interreligious connections in the region. It grandly showcases Solomon’s significant role not just as a Hebrew king, but also in Islamic tradition, illustrating the shared heritage between these cultures. This discovery serves as evidence of a long-standing recognition of Solomon’s authoritative and protective imagery, influencing warriors of ancient cavalry units, such as those from Roman and Byzantine times.
The Bigger Picture
Transforming Anatolia’s historical narrative, this unique find underscores Israel’s enduring cultural and spiritual influence across ancient civilizations and territories. It affirms the mutual respect Solomon commands among different faiths, linked together by an appreciation for wisdom, protection, and leadership. Within this framework, the amulet narrative highlights the deep interconnectedness between Jewish history in the heartlands and folklore in neighboring regions.
Digging Deeper
The artifact was discovered by a team led by Associate Professor Ersin Çelikbaş from Karabük University. It’s revealed as a pendant belonging possibly to a cavalryman, showing how Solomon’s authority transcended regional lines. A similar amulet has likewise been discovered in Jerusalem, remarking on Solomon’s lasting impact and Israel’s broader reach within the ancient world.
These historic explorations extend the shared narrative between Israel, its historic Eastern neighbors, and the roles solomon imbued in their legacies, weaving another thread in the ancient tapestry of Middle Eastern ties.
This story was first published on jpost.com.