1,700-year-old scroll named Jesus Christ as "Lord of the World" discovered

Archaeologists have discovered a 1,700-year-old scroll that refers to Jesus Christ as "Lord of the World."

German archaeologists in Frankfurt discovered a silver amulet (armband) inside a 1,750-year-old grave during excavations in 2018. They noticed a scroll inside the amulet, but it took several years to read the ancient scroll. Since the scroll was so fragile, it was impossible to open it by hand because the valuable scroll could shatter into pieces. Experts tried using X-rays and a microscope, but unfortunately this method was not effective.

They then decided to use a new, 3D X-ray method called computed tomography, which involves scanning thin sections of the scroll and digitally stitching the scans together, allowing the note to be virtually unfolded.

The method was successful, and experts found 18 lines of Latin inscription on the delicate scroll. Linguists spent several months deciphering the text, when the result was excellent. The ancient inscription clearly refers to Christianity and is the oldest physical evidence of Christianity north of the Alps.

The translation of the text of the inscription is as follows: “In the name of Saint Titus. Holy, holy, holy! In the name of Jesus Christ, the Lord of the universe, with strength resist all attacks, defeats. God opens the way to enjoy prosperity. May this means of salvation protect the man who submits himself to the will of Jesus Christ, for at the presence of Jesus Christ every knee will bow. Those in heaven, those on earth, and those under the earth, and every tongue confesses Jesus Christ.”

Archaeologists date the amulet to between 230 and 270 AD, a time when Christians were being persecuted by the Roman Empire. Although Christianity was growing in popularity at the time, it was still dangerous to identify as a Christian. At the time, the Romans controlled what is now Frankfurt.

Archaeologists said the grave where the amulet was discovered belonged to a Christian man who wore it with a cord around his neck, similar to the amulet worn by Jews. Authorities shared photos of the amulet, scroll and inscription on Facebook.

Experts described the amulet as an extraordinary, exciting and important event for the history of Christianity. They believe that the text of the amulet will raise new questions for archaeologists, historians and theologians.