Egyptian archaeologists have made a significant discovery that could offer new insights into the military prowess of Ramesses II, the famed pharaoh believed by many scholars to be the ruler mentioned in the biblical Book of Exodus.
On September 5, the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced the unearthing of an ancient bronze sword that once belonged to Ramesses II’s military forces. This remarkable find was made at the excavation site of Tell Al-Abqain, located in Housh Eissa, within the Beheira Governorate.
The site, which dates back to the New Kingdom era, has yielded an array of artifacts from an ancient military fort, including barracks, storage rooms, and weapons caches. Among these treasures, the most striking discovery was a decayed bronze sword inscribed with the cartouche, or hieroglyphic signature, of Ramesses II.
While the sword itself has deteriorated over time, the symbol of the legendary pharaoh remains clearly visible, a testament to the power and influence Ramesses wielded during his reign from 1303 B.C. to 1213 B.C.
According to the Ministry’s press release, the fort at Tell Al-Abqain was not merely a military outpost but also a hub of daily life for soldiers stationed there. Archaeologists uncovered a variety of personal items that shed light on the soldiers’ lives, including jewelry, scarabs, and protective amulets, as well as more utilitarian objects like hygiene items and hunting tools. These findings provide a glimpse into the blend of military activity, personal ritual, and daily routine that defined life at the fort.
The strategic importance of the fort was underscored by Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities. He explained that the site played a vital role in protecting Egypt from external threats, particularly the Sea Peoples—tribes that frequently attacked Egypt’s borders during this period. The architecture of the fort itself reveals the ingenuity of ancient Egyptian engineers, who designed the barracks in two identical groups, divided by a narrow passage to optimize functionality and defense.
Ramesses II, often regarded as one of Egypt’s greatest pharaohs, is widely believed by scholars to be the ruler referenced in the Book of Exodus. Though the Bible does not explicitly name the pharaoh who opposed Moses, Ramesses is considered the likely candidate due to the time frame of his reign and his known conflicts with various groups, including the Hebrews. According to biblical tradition, Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt under the pharaoh’s harsh rule, culminating in the famous Exodus from bondage to freedom.
The discovery of the sword and the associated relics at Tell Al-Abqain adds depth to our understanding of Ramesses’ reign and the military structures that supported his vast empire.
Weapons, tools, and even personal adornments found at the site highlight the multifaceted roles of soldiers stationed at the fort. More than just warriors, they engaged in hunting, maintained religious practices, and likely participated in a broader societal network tied to Egypt’s military and political power.
