Summary

A 35,000-year-old carved turtle sculpture, discovered deep in Manot Cave, Israel, may represent the earliest evidence of religious behavior in the Levant.

Found in a secluded chamber possibly used for rituals, the dolomite boulder was intentionally placed and shaped with flint tools, suggesting its use as a totem or spiritual figure.

Turtles hold symbolic significance in global mythologies, often representing longevity and strength.

The discovery highlights the ritual practices of prehistoric humans and adds to Manot Cave’s significance, already known for evidence of Neanderthal-human interbreeding.

  • Vox@lemmy.world
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    12 days ago

    Makes sense, the whole world is carried around on four elephants balanced on one.

    • Flying Squid@lemmy.worldM
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      12 days ago

      Yes, but that’s no excuse for you to stop and read articles about it when there’s packages due to be delivered in Ankh-Morpork.