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Renowned Biblical Archaeologist Dr. Barkay Dies at 81

1/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Dr. Barkay, biblical archaeologist, died at 81 from complications of an autoimmune disease.
Naama Barkay confirmed his death in a care facility.
Over 50 years, Barkay led digs in central Israel and earned the title "dean" of biblical archaeologists.
In the 1970s, he discovered burial caves southwest of Jerusalem and unearthed amulets with scrolls from the mid-600s B.C.
His translation in 1986 revealed a priestly benediction from the Old Testament.

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Story summary

Dr. Barkay, biblical archaeologist, died at 81 from complications of an autoimmune disease.
Naama Barkay confirmed his death in a care facility.
Over 50 years, Barkay led digs in central Israel and earned the title "dean" of biblical archaeologists.
In the 1970s, he discovered burial caves southwest of Jerusalem and unearthed amulets with scrolls from the mid-600s B.C.
His translation in 1986 revealed a priestly benediction from the Old Testament.