Israeli Law, Jewish Law and the Archaeological Excavation of Tombs

International Journal of Cultural Property, Vol. 6, pp. 47-79, 1997

34 Pages Posted: 13 Sep 2011

See all articles by Talia Einhorn

Talia Einhorn

Tel Aviv University - Faculty of Management

Date Written: April 1, 1997

Abstract

The paper discusses the conflict in Israel between the public interest in archaeological research and the religious convictions that human remains, once buried, should not be touched. The conflict is exacerbated by urban development, which, in this ancient land, necessitates rescue excavations of tombs, thus bringing the problem to a head. The article examines, first, the rules of Jewish law, which, the author contends, have made it possible to accommodate the interests of the living, and, secondly, the scientific value of the archaeological excavation of tombs, using recent examples as illustrations. The author concludes that Jewish law could be interpreted and applied more flexibly and could then be reconciled with Israeli law. However, even if such a development were not to take place, then, in keeping with democratic values, government officials and the courts would be required to follow the policies established by the legislator, a balance between the conflicting interests having already been embodied in the law.

Suggested Citation

Einhorn, Talia, Israeli Law, Jewish Law and the Archaeological Excavation of Tombs (April 1, 1997). International Journal of Cultural Property, Vol. 6, pp. 47-79, 1997, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1925858

Talia Einhorn (Contact Author)

Tel Aviv University - Faculty of Management ( email )

P.O. Box 39010
Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv, 6139001
Israel
+972548181540 (Phone)

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