A mysterious ancient inscription discovered in the Sinai Peninsula has drawn new attention from scholars after a language researcher suggested it might include one of the earliest written mentions of Moses. The inscription, found near a centuries-old turquoise mine in southern Sinai, was recently analyzed using modern high-resolution imaging tools. These advanced techniques helped bring faded carvings into sharper focus, offering fresh clues for researchers.
The writing appears on a rock face identified as “Sinai 357,” situated across from a site known as Mine L. The carvings belong to a group of ancient symbols called Proto-Sinaitic, considered one of the earliest forms of alphabetic writing. First uncovered in the early 20th century, these inscriptions are believed to date back more than 3,800 years.
Michael Bar-Ron, an independent researcher, believes the inscription includes a Hebrew phrase that reads, “This is from Moses.” If correct, the wording could represent one of the oldest written references to the biblical figure, possibly connecting the site to stories found in the Book of Exodus. Bar-Ron presented his interpretation during a podcast interview and has since gained the attention of several scholars who say the theory deserves further investigation.
Nearby inscriptions show erased goddess names and prayers to Hebrew deity
Other carvings found in the same area include prayers to the ancient semitic god known as El. Researchers also noticed that names linked to Egyptian goddesses—such as Hathor, once worshipped in the region—appear to have been deliberately scratched out. This pattern recalls a scene from the Book of Exodus, where a break from idol worship caused major conflict among the Israelites.
These discoveries come from a recent field survey by the Patterns of Evidence project, which documents ancient writings across the Middle East. The group has used advanced scanning technologies to uncover over 20 previously unseen inscriptions in the area. They plan to release 3D digital models of these carvings later this year for public access.
Bar-Ron has submitted a detailed 213-page manuscript to Ariel University for academic review. Titled Proto-Thesis, the work outlines his translation methods and interpretations. While some experts support further study, others remain cautious. Scholar Philippa Steele warns that ancient letter shapes are not enough to prove specific words or names. She argues that visual similarities in symbols do not always confirm their meaning.
Experts cautious as investigations on Moses Sinai inscription continue
Despite the excitement surrounding the possible reference to Moses, archaeologists stress the need for careful analysis. The Patterns of Evidence team is currently seeking permission from Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities to extract microscopic samples from behind the carvings. These samples could help confirm whether the inscription was made by human hands or shaped naturally by time and erosion.
Meanwhile, other researchers plan to rescan Sinai 357 using different imaging technologies. Their goal is to either confirm or challenge Bar-Ron’s interpretation of the characters.
In addition to the “Moses” inscription, several nearby texts include words linked to freedom and slavery. The locations of these writings—spanning Egypt, Sinai, and into Canaan—appear to trace the path described in the biblical Exodus. While no final conclusions have been drawn, the findings continue to raise questions about the movements of ancient Semitic people in the region and their possible historical ties to religious texts.