Museum of the Bible to Display Earliest Historical Reference to King David, the Tel Dan Stele
WASHINGTON, D.C., Sept. 3, 2025 — Museum of the Bible announces that the Tel Dan Stele, one of the most significant biblical archaeological discoveries of the last century, will be publicly displayed starting September 1 for free. Discovered in 1993, this 3,000-year-old basalt fragment bears a groundbreaking inscription with the earliest-known extrabiblical reference to the “House of David,” proving that David was a historical figure.
“The Tel Dan Stele is one of the most significant discoveries made in biblical archaeology,” said Dr. Bobby Duke, chief curatorial officer at Museum of the Bible. “Until its discovery, some academics questioned the validity of King David as a historical figure. For the first time in history, we have an inscription outside of the Bible that directly references the dynasty of David and confirms Old Testament accounts.”
The exhibit was created by the Israel Antiquities Authority from the National Treasures collections and will be on display September 1 through November 3, 2025. Visitors to Museum of the Bible will have the rare opportunity to see the Tel Dan Stele free of charge in the museum’s Grand Hall on Floor 1 as part of the “First Floor Free” initiative.
Dating to the 9th century BC, the Tel Dan Stele contains a memorial inscription by an Aramean king boasting of his triumphs over the king of Israel and the king of the “House of David,” offering the first historical evidence outside the Bible that King David was not just a literary or theological figure, but a real ruler whose dynasty gave its name to the southern kingdom of Judah.
Eli Escusido, director of the Israel Antiquities Authority shares, “The opportunity to display some of the most important treasures of Israel's past — including the ancient copies of the biblical books preserved in the Dead Sea Scrolls — is of utmost importance to us. Especially in these times, presenting the cultural wealth of the Land of Israel, the birthplace of Judaism and Christianity and a meeting point of the three monotheistic religions, serves as a powerful reminder of its rich past and enduring significance to humanity.”
The Tel Dan Stele exhibit explores how these inscriptions were discovered, their archaeological contexts, and their significance for understanding the historical backdrop of the Bible. Together, they provide direct testimony from the ancient Near East, grounding biblical narratives in their original settings.
“Part of our mission is to make the most important biblical discoveries accessible to everyone, so people can experience the Bible in powerful and tangible ways,” Dr. Duke said. “We are honored to share this landmark discovery with the public free of charge.”
The First Floor Free initiative opens the museum’s Grand Hall, with rotating exhibitions of biblical artifacts, to everyone, including guests without an admission ticket. Visitors have the rare opportunity to stand before the only certain archaeological discovery referencing King David, as well as the Megiddo Mosaic, a decorative floor from one of the earliest-known sites of Christian worship dating back to AD 230. They can also visit the museum’s gift shop and café, Milk + Honey.
For updates and more information on the Tel Dan Stele, visit museumoftheBible.org/exhibits/teldanstelemotb.
About Museum of the Bible
Museum of the Bible is an apolitical, non-sectarian organization that invites all people to engage with the transformative power of the Bible. Located just three blocks from the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., the stunning 430,000-square-foot museum showcases rare and fascinating artifacts spanning 4,000 years of history and immersive experiences exploring the Bible. In addition to its educational programs, exhibits and experiences, Museum of the Bible hosts the beautiful 480-seat World Stage Theater. To learn more, visit museumoftheBible.org.
About the Israel Antiquities Authority
The Israel Antiquities Authority is Israel’s national authority responsible for the preservation, research, and public accessibility of the country’s archaeological treasures. Its headquarters are located at The Jay and Jeanie Schottenstein National Campus for the Archaeology of Israel in Jerusalem. The Authority oversees more than 300 archaeological excavations and 240 conservation projects (preservation and restoration of archaeological sites) each year.
------
PR Manager, Kellie Koch — kellie.koch@mBible.org