2,000-Year-Old ‘Pilate’ Ring Might Have Belonged to Jesus Judge

The Fellowship  |  November 30, 2018

Did researchers uncover a ring that belonged to Pontius Pilate in biblical times? Writers at the Times of Israel tell us more about what experts have to say about the 2,000-year-old copper alloy ring.

An intriguing 2,000-year-old copper alloy ring bearing the inscription “of Pilatus” may be only the second artifact testifying to the historicity of the infamous Pontius Pilate. Unearthed 50 years ago, the ring was overlooked until recently, when it got a good scrub, and a second look…

The ring was first found among hundreds of other artifacts in 1968–1969 excavations directed by archaeologist Gideon Foerster, at a section of Herod’s burial tomb and palace at Herodium that was used during the First Jewish Revolt (66–73 CE). Recently, current dig director Roi Porat asked that the engraved copper sealing ring be given a thorough laboratory cleaning and scholarly examination…

Archaeologist Porat told The Times of Israel on Thursday that to him, all explanations are equally possible for who was the historical owner of the simple copper ring.

“It was important to publish a careful scientific article,” he said. “But in practice we have a ring inscribed with the name Pilate and the personal connection just cries out,” said Porat.