The James Ossuary Inscription Investigation

Record summary

A limestone ossuary publicized in 2002 carried the inscription ‘James, son of Joseph, brother of Jesus,’ potentially relevant to New Testament historical traditions. The Israel Antiquities Authority alleged that the final phrase was forged, while the ossuary itself was considered ancient. A 2007 Israeli trial examined the authenticity dispute, expert testimony and collecting history. This lead matters for comparing textual traditions with material claims about early Christianity. The evidentiary status remains contested in public discussion, although many specialists distinguish the genuine box from the disputed inscription addition.