A 12-year-old student, Alon Horowitz, found a rare gemstone at a historic site tied to Jesus’ ministry. The Israel Nature and Parks Authority (INPA) shared the news in early June, revealing the discovery took place at Korazim National Park near the Sea of Galilee.
Korazim, identified with the biblical village of Chorazin, appears in the New Testament as a place where Jesus performed miracles, yet residents did not repent. It is located approximately two miles north of Capernaum, a village central to Jesus’ ministry.
The gemstone, dating back to the sixth century A.D., features a pale-blue center and is small in size. Horowitz discovered it during an excavation initiative by the INPA and Ariel University, designed for local students like him from the Ramat Korazim Regional Elementary School near Elifelet.
“After three days of digging, about 10 minutes before we finished, I was digging with my trowel and suddenly saw something blue, round, and special.” — Alon Horowitz
Horowitz’s efforts were part of a community program allowing students to experience archaeology and gain insights into ancient lifestyles. He felt immense pride when he realized the significance of his find, noting the support from friends, teachers, and family.
Achia Kohn-Tavor, director of excavations at Chorazin, explained that the gemstone was likely part of an opulent ring, owned by an affluent family member. It is a Nicolo, a rare agate variety, known for its value during Roman and Byzantine times. The gemstone’s presence underscores the historical connection to luxury trade routes extending beyond the local area.
This isn’t the first instance of a young Israeli making a notable archaeological discovery. Previously, an 8-year-old from Rehovot found a 1,700-year-old Roman statuette fragment. A year before that, a 3-year-old girl uncovered a 3,800-year-old Canaanite amulet near Tel Azeka.
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