Archaeology: The “Temech” seal

The 2,500-year-old black stone seal, which has the name “Temech” engraved on it was uncovered in an archeological excavation in Jerusalem in 2008 near the Dung Gate. The elliptical seal is engraved with two bearded priests standing on either side of an incense altar with their hands raised forward in a position of worship.

According to Ezra and Nehemiah, the Temech (spelled as “Thamah” [KJV], “Tamah” (NKJV] or “Temah” [NASB]) family were servants of the temple and were sent into exile following its destruction by the Babylonians in 586 B.C. The family was among those who later returned to Jerusalem (Ezra 2:53; Nehemiah 7:55).

Kyle Campbell