In an extraordinary find, archaeologists have uncovered one of the earliest Christian buildings in the Arabian Gulf, shedding light on a long-lost Christian community. The site, located in Samahij, Bahrain, offers the first physical evidence of Christianity in the region, dating back over 1,600 years.
Christianity in an Unexpected Place
Today, Christianity is rarely associated with the Arabian Gulf. However, the Church of the East, also known as the Nestorian Church, once thrived in this region. Its presence declined as Islam spread after 610 CE. The Samahij site provides new insights into this early Christian community, which flourished before large-scale conversions to Islam.
The Discovery at Samahij
The excavations, conducted by British and Bahraini archaeologists, revealed an eight-room structure beneath a mound in a village cemetery. Among the rooms were a kitchen, dining area, possible workroom, and three living spaces. Interestingly, the building had survived due to a later mosque being constructed on top of it.
Radiocarbon Dating
Radiocarbon dating places the building’s use between the mid-4th and mid-8th centuries CE. This timeline aligns with historical records of a thriving Christian community in Bahrain, which eventually faded as Islam became dominant in the region.
Was This the Bishop’s Palace?
The building may have served as the residence of a bishop overseeing the diocese of Meshmahig (an older name for Samahij). Historical accounts suggest a strained relationship between Meshmahig and the central church, with one bishop excommunicated in 410 and another condemned in the 7th century.
Life in Ancient Samahij
Archaeological evidence reveals a high standard of living for the building’s occupants. They consumed pork—a practice that ceased after the Islamic conversion—along with fish, shellfish, and various crops. Other finds, such as small wine glasses and carnelian beads, suggest trade connections with India and a penchant for fine goods.
Symbols of Faith
The Christian identity of the site’s inhabitants is confirmed by the discovery of three plaster crosses, Chi-Rho graffiti, and a fish symbol—key markers of early Christian worship. These artifacts offer invaluable insights into the spiritual life of the community.
A Glimpse into Daily Life
Beyond religious artifacts, the team unearthed spindle whorls and copper needles, indicating that textiles were likely produced on-site, possibly for religious purposes. A child’s face drawn on a pearl shell in bitumen also hints at the personal lives of the building’s former residents.
Preserving History
This groundbreaking discovery is part of a collaborative effort led by Professor Timothy Insoll of the University of Exeter and Dr. Salman Almahari of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities. Plans are underway to open a museum at the site by 2025 to showcase this remarkable piece of Christian history.
Conclusion
The discovery at Samahij is a testament to the rich and complex history of the Arabian Gulf. As Professor Insoll remarked, “This is the first physical evidence found of the Nestorian Church in Bahrain and gives a fascinating insight into how people lived, worked, and worshiped”. The upcoming museum will allow future generations to explore this hidden chapter of Bahrain’s past.
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