In a remarkable auction that bridged millennia, the world’s oldest known complete tablet inscribed with the Ten Commandments sold for a staggering $5.04 million at Sotheby’s in New York City on Wednesday. This ancient artifact, a testament to the enduring power of religious texts, far exceeded its pre-sale estimate of $1 to $2 million.
The marble slab, dating back to the late Roman-Byzantine era approximately 1,500 years ago, is a weighty piece of history at 115 pounds (52 kg) and stands nearly two feet (61 cm) tall. Its surface, worn by time and human contact, bears the Ten Commandments in Paleo-Hebrew script, offering a tangible link to the foundations of Judeo-Christian faith.
The tablet’s journey to the auction block is as intriguing as its content. Unearthed in 1913 during railway construction near what is now southern Israel, it initially served a humble purpose as a paving stone in a local residence. It wasn’t until 1943 that its true significance was recognized when scholar Jacob Kaplan acquired it.
Richard Austin, Sotheby’s global head of books and manuscripts, remarked on the auction’s outcome: “The result illustrates the extraordinary significance of this artifact. Standing before this tablet offers a unique experience, providing a direct link to the shared foundations of faith and culture that continue to influence our world today”.
Interestingly, the tablet contains a unique set of commandments. While it includes nine of the traditional Ten Commandments from the Book of Exodus, it omits “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord in vain.” Instead, it features a directive to worship on Mount Gerizim, a sacred site for Samaritans.
The anonymous buyer plans to donate the tablet to an institution in Israel, ensuring its preservation and accessibility for future generations. This sale not only sets a new benchmark in the antiquities market but also highlights the enduring fascination with ancient religious artifacts in our modern world.
Reference:
https://www.sothebys.com/en/digital-catalogues/the-ten-commandments
