The James Ossuary - a Forensic Inquiry

Abstract

Examining the antiquity of artifacts to determine their authenticity requires multidisciplinary expertise The final verdict can influence an object s value and can impact our historical knowledge of the period in question and of the historical figures of that time There are many methods of testing authenticity and they build upon modern scientific know how and instruments This paper presents some of the scientific tests that are routinely applied in forensic labs that can be used to confirm or challenge findings obtained through the accepted methods of examining archeological artifacts Specifically this paper discusses authenticity testing in the context of a disputed inscription found on a Second Temple ossuary Jewish burial bone box The inscription on the ossuary possibly alludes to the brother of Jesus and is therefore highly significant to Christian believers