Sarcophagus of Tabnit
The inscription identifies Tabnit by name and title and provides direct evidence of Sidonian royal religion, burial customs, and Egyptian cultural influence.
About the Discovery
The stone sarcophagus of Tabnit, king of Sidon, was discovered in 1887 during excavations of the royal tombs near the city. The coffin is Egyptian in style and carries both Egyptian hieroglyphs and a Phoenician inscription, showing how objects and artistic traditions crossed cultural boundaries.
The Phoenician text identifies Tabnit as king of the Sidonians and priest of Astarte. It warns anyone finding the coffin not to open it or disturb the burial. The inscription gives direct evidence of Sidonian kingship and religious life.
Scripture Reference
Genesis 10:15; 1 Kings 16:31; Ezekiel 28:20–23 (background references to Sidon; none mentions Tabnit or his sarcophagus).