Galilee cave discovery sheds light on communal worship

(JNS) - A rare prehistoric ritual complex has been uncovered in the depths of the Manot Cave in the Western Galilee, Israel.

The study of this complex, published in the journal PNAS, was led by Dr. Omry Barzilai from the University of Haifa and Israel Antiquities Authority, Prof. Ofer Marder from Ben-Gurion University and Prof. Israel Hershkovitz from Tel Aviv University.

"The rare discovery provides a glimpse into the spiritual world of Paleolithic hunter-gatherer groups who lived in our region approximately 35,000 years ago," said Dr. Barzilai.

"The engraved rock was deliberately placed in a niche in the deepest, darkest part of the cave. The turtle-shell design, carved on a three-dimensional object, indicates that it may have represented a totem or a mythological or spiritual figure. Its special location, far from the daily activity areas near the cave entrance, suggests that it was an object of worship. Notably, there are prehistoric caves in Western Europe, with similar findings testifying these places held symbolic importance and served for ritual and communal activities," he added.

In the course of the study of the complex, the researchers uncovered ash remains in one of the stalagmite rings near the engraved rock, confirming the use of fire to illuminate the ritual space, likely with torches. Acoustic tests revealed that the complex possesses enhanced natural acoustics, which could have created a unique auditory experience for communal activities, such as prayer, singing and dancing.

"This is an unprecedented discovery of a space with 'audio-visual equipment,' centered around a ritual object (the turtle), which constitutes the first evidence of communal rituals in the Levant," said Prof. Hershkovitz.

"It is no surprise that prehistoric hunters chose to conduct their rituals in the darkest part of the Manot Cave, as darkness embodies sacred and hidden qualities, symbolizing rebirth and renewal. The establishment of ritual centers during the Upper Paleolithic was a central element in the development and institutionalization of collective identity-a necessary stage in the transition from small, isolated hunter-gatherer groups based on blood ties between individuals to large, complex societies," he added.

The chronological age of the ritual complex in the Manot Cave was dated to 35,000–37,000 years ago, a period associated with the sudden emergence of the Aurignacian culture, known in Europe for its symbolic objects and cave paintings.

"In our excavations in the Manot Cave, we uncovered rich Aurignacian layers near the cave entrance that included flint tools, bone and antler implements and shell beads," said Prof. Marder.

The Manot Cave is particularly well-known for its stunning stalactites and remains of habitation from several prehistoric cultures of the Upper Paleolithic period. Among its notable discoveries is a 55,000-year-old modern human skull, the oldest modern human fossil found outside Africa.

In a small, hidden chamber adjacent to the ritual complex, a complete deer antler with signs of use was discovered.

"Antlers were used as raw material for crafting tools for various purposes by Upper Paleolithic cultures in Europe, and by the Aurignacian culture in the Levant. The placement of the deer antler in a hidden chamber adjacent to the ritual site may be connected to the ritual activities in the cave," explained Barzilai.

According to the researchers, the discovery of the ritual complex in the Manot Cave sheds new light on the spiritual life of the Upper Paleolithic people in the Levant.

"This research enriches our understanding of prehistoric humans, their symbolic world and the nature of the worship rituals that connected ancient communities. Identifying communal rituals in the Paleolithic era marks a breakthrough in our understanding of human society and offers more than just a glimpse into ancient ritual practices. It reveals the central role of rituals and symbols in shaping collective identity and strengthening social bonds," they said.