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Discovery of Early Christian Building in Bahrain
Context:
Archaeologists uncovered one of the earliest Christian buildings in the Arabian Gulf in Samahij, Bahrain, providing the first physical evidence of a long-lost Christian community.
Excavation Details:
- Time Period: Radiocarbon dating indicates the building was occupied between the mid-4th and mid-8th centuries.
- Team: British and Bahraini archaeologists conducted the excavation from 2019 to 2023.
- Structure: The building had eight rooms, including a kitchen, refectory, workroom, and living rooms.
- It was well-constructed with stone walls, plastered interiors, and plaster floors.
Historical Significance:
- Historical Context: The Church of the East, also known as the Nestorian Church, thrived in the Gulf until large-scale conversions to Islam began around 610 CE.
- Bishop’s Palace: The building might have been the palace of the Bishop of the diocese known as Meshmahig.
- Historical Records: Records indicate strained relationships between Meshmahig and central church authorities, with bishops excommunicated in 410 and condemned in the mid-7th century.
Daily Life and Economy:
- Living Standards: Occupants had a good standard of living, consuming pork, fish, shellfish, and various crops.
- Trade: Evidence of trade with India includes carnelian beads and pottery shards.
- Glassware and Coins: The community used glassware and coins minted in the Sasanian Empire.
- Textile Production: Spindle whorls and copper needles suggest textile production.
Christian Identity:
- Religious Artefacts: Three plaster crosses and graffiti with early Christian symbols like Chi-Rho and fish confirmed the Christian identity of the inhabitants.
- Children’s Play: A pearl shell with a face drawn in bitumen was found, possibly for a child.
- Expert Insights: Highlighted the importance of the discovery for understanding the lifestyle and worship of the early Christian community in Bahrain.