Radiocarbon dating has been employed by archaeologists to unveil the historical accuracy of events mentioned in Biblical texts, shedding light on the ancient Levantine city of Gezer.

A study published in the PLOS ONE scientific journal on Wednesday details the latest archaeological findings.

Using radiocarbon dates on organic materials spanning the 13th to 9th centuries, researchers explored transformative events in Gezer, a city frequently referenced in Egyptian, Assyrian, and Biblical texts.

The study examined 35 organic materials, primarily seeds, found in various rock layers at the Gezer archaeological site in Israel, Newsweek reported.

These radiocarbon dates are believed to encompass crucial periods of change, including destructive events and subsequent reconstruction.

The discoveries align with specific events narrated in Biblical and ancient texts, such as the destruction of Gezer under the pharaoh Merneptah.

However, discrepancies were noted, such as the fall of Gezer under Hazael, an ancient ruler mentioned in 1 Kings 19:15-17, revealing instances where historical accounts did not align with radiocarbon dates.

Written by B.C. Begley