Mummy Ötzi and Tubal-cain have what in common? Most scientists do not know. But it has to do with his axe. It also has to do with the Bible.
The oldest and best-known naturally preserved mummy was discovered and uncovered in 1991. He had been frozen in ice for more than 5,000 years. Nicknamed Ötzi, a copper axe was found in his possession. What is so special about the axe? Scientists had previously believed metal objects would not be introduced for an additional 1,000 years.
Mummy Ötzi
Many new things were discovered in connection with mummy Ötzi. But the thing that should most interest sincere Bible students is the axe. Why? Because the Bible informs us metal objects date back that far and perhaps even earlier. Where does it say that?
In Genesis. The Bible says at Genesis 4:22,
“Zillah gave birth to Tubal-cain, who forged every sort of tool of copper and iron.”
Blacksmith Tubal-cain
Now it would be impressive enough if this man introduced the forging of metals. In fact, the scripture may be acknowledging that. On the other hand, it may be saying not that he introduced the process, but that he was both capable and prominent in this occupation.
Yes, it may have proceeded even him. And Tubal-cain may have been born hundreds of years before mummy Ötzi. Estimates of Tubal-cain’s occupational endeavor suggest about the 34th Century before Christ’s birth.
Of Note
Interestingly, commentators have said (though it has not been verified) that much of the metal work Tubal-cain made may have involved weapons. This has been suggested due to his being a descendant of violent Cain.
Note: You might also enjoy Requiescat In Pace (R.I.P. or Rest in Peace) – A Valid Phrase?
References:
- Shout Out Science: Prehistoric Relic: Ötzi the Iceman
- New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (2013)
I remember reading about the ice man but didn’t realise they had called him Otzi.
Interesting information. I do not remember the story from years ago. Did they put him in the museum somewhere?
On display at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology in Bolzano (South Tyrol, Italy).
He was living in Italy 2000 years before the proto-Italians arrived there. He was pre-Italian.
You may be interested in The Mystery of the Iceman book.