Khirbet el-Qom

Khirbet el-Qom is an archaeological site located in the village of al-Kum in the West Bank, historically part of the biblical Kingdom of Judah. The site is significant for its multi-period occupation and the variety of artifacts found there. Notable features include Iron Age bench tombs with inscriptions from the 8th century BCE, believed to reflect the religious practices of ancient Israel. Additionally, a 4th-century BCE shrine dedicated to Yahweh suggests continued religious activity during the Persian period. The presence of Aramaic ostraca and a burial cave from the 1st century BCE to the 2nd century CE with Hebrew inscriptions further highlight the site's historical importance. These findings provide insights into the religious and cultural transitions in the region over several centuries.