Israeli researchers discovered possible evidence of "ritual magic" in a deep cave in the Judaean hills.
Human skulls were arranged in patterns near oil lamps, with daggers and axe heads nearby.
"Some crevices contained groups of oil lamps mixed with weapons and pottery vessels from earlier periods or placed with human skulls."
In addition to the oil lamps, weapons including daggers and axe heads were located along with three human skulls.
Oil lamps in particular, such as the 120 found within the cave's crevices, were used to lure spirits to the realm of the living.
Persons:
Eitan Klein, Boaz Zissu, Klein, Zissu, —, thunders, necromancy, Constantius II
Organizations:
Service, Harvard Theological, Cambridge University Press, Israel Antiquities Authority, Bar, Ilan University, Roman
Locations:
Wall, Silicon, Cave, Jerusalem