The James Ossuary: The Commercialization Of Archaeology

Throughout history, archaeological discoveries have often posed many ethical debates and it begs the question if this can often be justified. Archaeology is the study of material remains and activities of past human life, often through the excavation of sites and analysis of discoveries. Archaeology undoubtedly uncovers mysteries from the past and gives humans an insight into their past through the ages. While the educational value of archaeology is unattested, many arguments arise from an ethical perspective, spanning from digging up an ancient tomb to the economic and political rifts that can form as a direct result of archaeological discoveries.

The commercialisation of historical artefacts through mediums such as museums and private

The ‘James Ossuary’ is one such example demonstrating forgeries and the length some go to for attention, fame and sometimes monetary gain. The Ossuary was in fact real, however it was the inscription that was forged, reading “Yaakov bar Yoseph, Achui de Yeshua,” which translates to “James, son of Joseph, brother of Jesus.” This discovery sparked worldwide attention as people saw this as proof of Jesus. While this is not from a biblical sense it still illustrates the existence of Jesus as a person. The faked James Ossuary ultimately challenges the ethicise of archaeology as the commodification of the past enables individuals to be rewarded and receive worldwide attention from their discoveries, while in fact they are exploiting peoples’ religious beliefs and capitalising from people’s fascination for the

Throughout modern times countries have sought to acquire more control over archaeological discoveries found, that hold cultural, religious and social meaning. This can be seen in countries such as Iraq and Greece who place strict sanctions on any excavation, as anything found is considered property of the country, therefore removing it would result in possible prison sentences. Such restrictions on excavations begs the question over the ownership of antiquities, and illustrates the political tensions that can arise due to archaeology. Additionally, the ethicise over the ownership of relics from the past can be seen in the collection and preservation of artefacts particularly in places such as museums. Starkly prominent examples over the care of items and their ownership can be seen in the cleaning of the Elgin Marbles, which through an acid wash by the British Museum’s workers, resulted in significant deterioration of the marble. Another was the funerary mask of Tutankhamun being dropped during cleaning and the beard breaking off and being glued back on. Both illustrate the ethical issues over who should be taking care of these items as on one hand it can be said that they are safer in the British museum, opposed to the place of discovery. Additionally places such as Iraq who have groups such as Isis