Rare archeological artifact attests to fraud during First Temple period

 

An incredibly rare weight was discovered during excavations in Jerusalem this week that experts believe were used by cheating traders in Jerusalem's markets in the period leading up to the destruction of the First Temple,  approximately 2,700 years ago.

The weight – discovered in the City of David near the foundations of the Western Wall weighs three times the weight indicated on it, which prompted scholars to conclude that it was used by traders to deceive their buyers.

It is an incredibly rare find and only the second such discovery made in Israel.

"The Bible indicates that the problem of weight deception is nothing new," the researchers said. "Merchants cheated and held separate heavy and light weight systems and used them when buying or selling."

It is mentioned in the book of Leviticus and Deuteronomy, they explained, "Do not have two differing weights in your bag – one heavy, one light. [Rather,] you must have accurate and honest weights and measures, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you. For the Lord your God detests anyone who does these things, anyone who deals dishonestly."