A ceramic artifact unearthed in Egypt may contain the first-known reference to Jesus Christ, The Daily Mail reported. The discovery could upend historians’ understanding of the spread of Christianity.
Artifact Was First Unearthed in 2009
Unearthed in 2008 by marine archaeologist Franck Goddio during underwater excavations of Alexandria’s ancient harbor, the so-called “Jesus Cup” is actually a ceramic bowl. It remains remarkably well-intact, minus a missing handle, and is inscribed with a Greek phrase which has led to fervent debate amongst scholars regarding Christianity’s presence in ancient Egypt. The inscription, written in Greek capital letters, reads: “DIA CHRSTOU O GOISTAIS.” That translates to: “Through Christ the chanter”; or “Through Christ the magician.”
The Jesus Cup was found at a site which is believed to have formerly been occupied by Cleopatra’s palace. Experts say the artifact is similar in appearance and construction to early statues crafted by Egyptian artists which depict fortune-telling ceremonies. Goddio believes that the incorporation of Christ’s name into these rituals, which sought to evoke visions of otherworldly beings who could predict the future, might have in some way legitimized them.
If Authentic, Inscription Would Be Evidence of Christianity’s Influence
If the inscription is actually referring to Jesus Christ, it would prove to be evidence of his influence dating all the way back to the first century A.D. This would change radically the timeline of Christianity in Egypt, which could mean that knowledge of Jesus’ life reached the settlement less than a century after his crucifixion. If proven accurate, this would challenge previously held beliefs that Christianity was largely spread via the Roman Empire.
Giving the theory some credence is the fact that Alexandria is historically known as a center of innovation in both religion and education. From its inception, the city cultivated a diverse population of cultures and faiths. Its Early Christian communities were known for their advanced theology which mixed Greek and Egyptian religious traditions, making it a logical breeding ground for Christianity.
