Seal Impression of Yeda’yah Son of Asayahu Found in Temple Mount Sifting

The Discovery

While sifting through debris from the Temple Mount dumped in the Kidron Valley, archaeologist Mordechai Ehrlich found a small clay bulla. The bulla bears the seal impression of a man named Yeda’yah son of Asayahu. Marks on the back indicate it once sealed a bag or container, and the front shows the seal impression, likely used to authorize the contents.

Dating and Context

Based on the shape of the letters (paleography), the bulla dates to the late seventh or early sixth century BCE, the period of the late Judean monarchy. The findspot—material from the Temple Mount area—suggests the seal's owner was a high-ranking official.

Biblical Connection

Yeda’yah is not named in the Bible, but his father Asayahu might be. In 2 Kings 22:12 and 2 Chronicles 34:20, King Josiah sends Asaiah (a short form of Asayahu), the king's attendant, to consult the prophetess Huldah. If this is the same Asayahu, the bulla would be a rare artifact linked to a biblical figure.

What It Does and Does Not Show

The bulla does not prove the biblical account, nor does it confirm that Yeda’yah's father is the biblical Asaiah. It simply provides a name and title from the right period and place, making the connection possible but unproven. More evidence would be needed to establish a direct link.