Episode Details

In this episode, Lance Smith examines Numbers 14:29 and the common question of why archaeologists haven’t found mass graves for the Israelites who died during the 40 years in the wilderness. He reviews biblical, cultural, and archaeological explanations including nomadic burial practices, shallow or exposed interments, secondary bone collection, harsh desert conditions, and limited excavation.

The episode argues the absence of durable graves fits the Bible’s description of a judged, transient generation and explains why lack of visible remains is not evidence against the Exodus account.

References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following:

buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith 

The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website

The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page

Email Address: bibledifficultiesandanswers@gmail.com 

1. Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI 
2. Franz, Gordon. “Where are the Israelite Burials From the Wilderness Wanderings?” Associates for Biblical Research. https://biblearchaeology.org/research/exodus-from-egypt/3811-where-are-the-israelite-burials-from-the-wilderness-wanderings
3. “Why haven’t we found the graves of the Israelites in the wilderness?” BibleAsk.org. https://bibleask.org/why-havent-we-found-the-graves-of-the-israelites-in-the-wilderness/
4. Christian Think Tank material on related archaeological questions: https://www.christian-thinktank.com/noai.html
5. “Ancient Israelite Tombs and Burial Practices,” Posen Library. https://www.posenlibrary.com/guide/ancient-israelite-tombs-and-burial-practices 
6. “Israel in the Wilderness: Evidence in the Right Place and at the Right Time?” Truth in Time. https://truthintime.org/israel-in-the-wilderness-evidence-in-the-right-place-and-at-the-right-time/
7. Maritis, Tony. “Is There Any Archaeological Proof At All For The Biblical Exodus?” Medium. https://tonymaritis.medium.com/is-there-any-archaeological-proof-at-all-for-the-biblical-exodus-3f770d0b6763