#history
ISRAEL.
We learn about the existence of Israel as a nation from the references in the Old Testament of the Bible.
The Merneptah Stele, also known as the Israel Stele, is an inscription by the ancient Egyptian Pharaoh Merneptah (1213 -1203 B.C.).
It’s historically significant because it contains the earliest known mention of the name “Israel” .
The inscription describes Merneptah’s military victories and mentions defeating various peoples, including Israel.
It confirms the presence of a group or entity called “Israel” in Canaan during this period. The mention of Israel alongside other established peoples and cities in Canaan suggests that by the late 13th century BC, Israel was already a recognisable entity.
The relevant section of the inscription reads:
“Plundered is the Canaan with every evil, All lands are united and pacified. Those who were in turmoil are subdued by the King of Upper and Lower Egypt… Israel is laid waste and his seed is not;”
