Evidence for historical kingdoms of biblical David and Solomon on display at US exhibition

Archaeology shifting toward rediscovering historical authenticity of the Bible

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Embark on a captivating journey through time, as the Armstrong Institute of Biblical Archaeology presents a world premier exhibition, 'Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered.'

Running from Feb 25, 2024, through Jan. 31, 2025, this groundbreaking exhibit at the Armstrong Auditorium in Edmond, Oklahoma, offers a glimpse into the rich history of biblical Israel during the 10th century B.C.

Featuring nearly 50 artifacts sourced from archaeological sites across Israel, including Jerusalem, Timna, Lachish, and Khirbet Qeiyafa, this extraordinary collection showcases a diverse array of iron, pottery, stone, and textile artifacts. Among the highlights are the renowned Ophel Pithos inscription and a selection of artifacts unearthed by the esteemed Dr. Eilat Mazar in Jerusalem's City of David.

A replica of the “Tel Dan Stele” is featured at the exhibition (the original one being at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem), which directly mentions the dynasty of King David. Visitors will also marvel at elements of monumental Jerusalem, including a Phoenician-style capital discovered within the ancient city of Jerusalem.

Visitors will be able to immerse themselves in the past through life-size reconstructions of monumental walls, virtual reality tours, video presentations, and original illustrations and artwork selections. This unique and important exhibition offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the monumental nature of the united monarchy during the reigns of King David and King Solomon.

This exhibition was created in line with the Armstrong Institute's vision – and the vision of many other credible archaeologists today – that aims to show the accuracy of the historical accounts mentioned in the biblical accounts. Archaeology is experiencing a shift towards rediscovering the rich historical authenticity of the Bible.

Since the 1970s and 1980s, the Bible has been discredited by many scholars who say it is no more than mythology, filled with biases and exaggerations. However, recent archaeological discoveries show a different picture.

For Christians, it is important to understand the two archaeological approaches commonly known as “maximalist” and “minimalist” because the interpretation of the Bible's accuracy is at stake. Everything comes down to the correct interpretation of the findings.

Unprecedented in its scope, the 'Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered' exhibition is the first of its kind to assemble such a comprehensive collection of 10th-century archaeological finds, presented within their broader historical, scientific and biblical context. The free exhibition was made possible by the Armstrong Institute (AIBA) and in collaboration with partners including the Armstrong International Cultural Foundation, the Israel Museum, and the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA).

Notably, this marks Armstrong Auditorium's third exhibition based on artifacts from the biblical period, following the success of 'Seals of Jeremiah's Captors Discovered' in 2013–2015 and 'Seals of Isaiah and King Hezekiah Discovered' in 2018–2019. Both of those exhibitions garnered acclaim including the prestigious Oklahoma Tourism's 2020 Award for Outstanding Temporary Exhibit.

Initially scheduled to open on Dec. 31, 2023, the exhibit's debut was postponed due to the current ongoing conflict in Israel. However, visitors can now experience this unparalleled journey through history from now until the end of January 2025.

In line with the mission of the AIBA, this exhibition aims to share Israel's rich biblical archaeology with a global and large audience. Centered in Jerusalem, the nonprofit organization is dedicated to sponsoring and participating in archaeological excavations, furthering the understanding and appreciation of Israel's ancient past.

In addition, the AIBA is a significant and scientific voice aiming to widely publish archaeological findings that reveal the Bible's history and accuracy, even when they are ignored by other institutions.

Supported by Herbert W. Armstrong College in Edmond, OK, the institute publishes the insightful magazine, "Let the Stones Speak," providing accurate and engaging content free of charge to its readers. Its' editor-in-chief, Gerald Flurry, has been delving into the Hebrew Bible for over 50 years, and authored more than 50 books and booklets.

The writers and staff of "Let the Stones Speak" are either Jerusalem residents or frequent travelers to Israel. They actively engage in archaeological digs at the Ophel and the City of David site in Jerusalem.

This is a magazine every erudite Christian should know about and provides accurate and credible answers to “biblical problems” in dating and interpretation.