This discovery confirms that ascetic practices, which were once thought to be the domain of male monks, were also embraced by women.

The evidence suggests that Nesher Ramla functioned as a seasonal water reservoir, attracting animals from various regions, including the Samaria mountains, the Judean foothills, and the coastal plain.

A massive ancient winery, uncovered a year ago in Moshav Nir Israel within the Ashkelon Coast Regional Council, was officially inaugurated last week.

Either the place was used over generations for burial by trade caravans passing by, or the tombs were built for a mass burial of individuals from a single caravan that came under attack.

In its center, the ancient inscription in Greek was set — 'Blessed are you when you come in, and blessed are you when you go out' (Deuteronomy 28:6).

'Uncovering a Hasmonean treasure during Hanukkah added a profound connection to the holiday,' said excavation leader.

IAA researchers believe that the object, upon which originally the demon image alone appeared, was worn as an amulet around the neck of a man named Hoshʼayahu.