Tell Ashtara (Ancient Ashtaroth)
Tell Ashtara provides archaeological and historical evidence for an important ancient city in Bashan. Its probable identification with biblical Ashtaroth helps establish the geographical setting of the accounts of King Og. Egyptian records and archaeological remains independently attest the importance of the settlement, although they do not directly confirm Og himself.
About the Discovery
Tell Ashtara is an ancient settlement mound in the Bashan region of southern Syria. Archaeologists generally identify it with Ashtaroth, one of the royal cities associated with King Og in the Bible. Excavations in 1966 and 1967 revealed evidence of occupation during the Bronze and Iron Ages, including fortifications and traces of metalworking.
Ancient Egyptian records and the Amarna letters also refer to a city commonly identified as Ashtaroth. These sources show that an important settlement existed in this region long before the Israelite monarchy. They do not, however, identify King Og or establish the historical details of the biblical conquest.
Scripture Reference
Deuteronomy 1:4; Joshua 9:10; Joshua 12:4; Joshua 13:12, 31; 1 Chronicles 6:71.