From Secular to Religious Archaeology: The Case of Bar-Kosibah, Yigael Yadin, and Shlomo Goren

Between 1960 and 1961, major archaeological excavations took place in Nahal Hever in the Judean Desert. These excavations were headed by Yigael Yadin, an archaeologist and former Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, later to become one of the most prominent public advocates for Israeli archaeology. The excavations turned out to be highly significant. Notable among the numerous findings was a bundle of letters sent by Shimon Bar-Kosibah (more commonly known as Bar-Kochba), the commander who led the last rebellion against Rome (132-135 CE), as well as a collection of human bones, some of which were identified as remains of Bar-Kosibah’s soldiers. These findings, particularly the letters, aroused considerable public attention and exposed the complex relationship between archaeology and nationalism. This article explores the array of images and connections, prevalent in both the public and academic discourse, between Yadin’s charismatic personality and that of Bar-Kosibah. In addition, the article traces the bones’ route from the moment of their excavation until their full military funeral and burial ceremony 20 years later. The account of this funeral reflects the dwindling and decline of Israeli archaeology’s desire to generate a national-secular religion.