On the northeastern slope of Mount Ebal, overlooking the valley of Shechem and the slopes of Mount Gerizim, the archaeologist Adam Zertal discovered a large stone structure in 1980 that he identified as Joshua’s altar, the altar described in the Bible as built by Joshua after the conquest of Canaan. The identification is one of the most debated claims in biblical archaeology, generating fierce scholarly argument and drawing visitors who want to see for themselves.
Biblical Account
The Book of Joshua describes the construction of an altar on Mount Ebal: “Then Joshua built on Mount Ebal an altar to the Lord, the God of Israel, as Moses the servant of the Lord had commanded the Israelites. He built it according to what is written in the Book of the Law of Moses: an altar of uncut stones, on which no iron tool had been used” (Joshua 8:30-31). After building the altar, Joshua copied the law of Moses on the stones and read it aloud to all Israel, standing between Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal.
The Discovery
Zertal’s structure is a large rectangular installation, approximately 9 by 7 meters, built of unworked stones (consistent with the biblical requirement) and filled with ash, animal bones (predominantly young male cattle, sheep, and goats, consistent with burnt offerings), and pottery dating to the Iron Age I period (approximately 1200 BCE). The structure has a ramp rather than steps, consistent with the biblical prohibition: “Do not go up to my altar on steps, or your private parts may be exposed” (Exodus 20:26).
Debate
Zertal’s identification has been challenged by scholars who see the structure as a watchtower, a farmstead, or a non-Israelite installation. The dating is broadly correct for the period of the Israelite settlement, but whether the structure is an altar, and whether it is Joshua’s altar specifically, remains unproven. What is not debated is the structure’s location (on the summit of Mount Ebal, exactly where Joshua 8:30 says the altar was built), its construction (unworked stones), and the animal bones and ash (consistent with sacrificial burning).
Visit with Hoshen Tours
Joshua’s Altar is one of the most intriguing archaeological claims in Israel. Hoshen Tours visits the site and presents both the evidence and the debate, letting visitors draw their own conclusions.