Egyptian Farmer Makes Stunning Discovery of Ancient Statue Linked to Possible Biblical Pharaoh

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As the harvest season arrives and farmers bring crops into the storehouses, they typically haul in wheat and vegetables, but one Egyptian farmer recently came across something far different: parts of statues depicting one of Egypt's pharaohs. 

Khaled al-Shahat was working in the field when he came across what archaeologists are now calling “unearthed pieces of statues for King Ramses II, who ruled Egypt from 1279 B.C. to 1213 B.C.," CBS reports. King Ramses II, born around 1303 B.C., was known as one of the most powerful rulers during the New Kingdom in Egypt, spanning between 1570 and 1069 B.C.

Found in Behebat al-Hijara in Egypt’s Gharbia Governorate, archaeologists believe both pieces of the two uncovered statues are believed to depict Ramses II, with the second one bearing "hieroglyphic inscriptions," according to the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities 

The farmer explained how he came across the stone pieces and what he did after his discovery.

"I was working on my land on Friday when I came across an unusual stone," al-Shahat said. "I informed the relevant authorities, and they came to examine it."

The statue, given the recently unearthed fragments, is believed to have once stood nearly 28 feet tall (People Magazine). The discovery has also attracted attention because King Ramses II is often associated with the pharaoh described in the Book of Exodus, who interacted with Moses. However, the exact identity of that pharaoh in the Bible remains unclear. 

While the site is still under thorough investigation, Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathy, believes this is just the beginning of a great understanding for their region. The Nile Delta was a booming political, cultural and economic force in Egypt when Ramses II would have reigned. 

Khaled al-Shahat and his wife were thanked for their contributions. He mentioned how pleased he was to be part of something that helped further the study of history. 

"I was surprised and happy when they discovered more antiquities," al-Shahat told CBS News. "They told me this might change the history of the area."

The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities says that excavations are ongoing.

Photo Credit: ©Instagram/EgyptianMinistryTourismAntiquities

Amber Ginter is a teacher-turned-author who loves Jesus, her husband Ben, and granola. Growing up Amber looked for faith and mental health resources and found none. Today, she offers hope for young Christians struggling with mental illness that goes beyond simply reading your Bible and praying more. Because you can love Jesus and still suffer from anxiety. You can download her top faith and mental health resources for free to help navigate books, podcasts, videos, and influencers from a faith lens perspective. Visit her website at amberginter.com.