Inscribed in silver and rolled into scrolls, the Ketef Hinnom amulets, ca. 6th century B.C.E., contain an early version of the Priestly Blessing (Numbers 6:24–26). More than an important textual witness, they reveal that protective ritual practices were an integral part of Judahite religion, and show how divine blessing could be worn on the body, transforming sacred words into a tangible safeguard against danger, illness, and misfortune.
Dr.
Jeremy D. Smoak
,
,
The Bible portrays YHWH as in control of opening and closing the womb. Yet biblical narratives and other ancient evidence show women seeking fertility through plants, rituals, amulets, and midwifery practices—revealing a world in which divine control and human agency coexist in the pursuit of conception and safe birth.
Dr.
Sarah Fein
,
,
