Hebrew University of Jerusalem

A carnelian scarab discovered at the Mt. Ebal installation helps to provide a date for the site. Issued during the reign of Ramesses II (1279–1213 B.C.E.) to honor Thutmosis III (1479–1425 B.C.E.), the scarab features a large figure at center that looks like a capital B; the shape is actually a double bow held by a kneeling archer at far left. The area to the right of the B—called a cartouche—contains Thutmosis III’s name. A second scarab from the site also dates to Ramesses II. Zertal’s claim that the Mt. Ebal installation is an altar from the time of Joshua is disputed by some archaeologists and supported by others.