Archaeologists recently uncovered an intriguing mystery at the Byzantine monastery of Khirbat el-Masani, located approximately 1.9 miles northwest of Jerusalem's Old City. A skeleton, initially identified as male by the Israel Antiquities Authority, was found wrapped in heavy metal chains. However, further research published in the Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports revealed that this individual was, in fact, female.
The research team, focused on confirming the biological sex of the person buried in chains, discovered compelling evidence pointing to the presence of AMELX, an X-chromosome gene. This gene plays a crucial role in enamel development. Notably absent was AMELY, the Y-chromosome gene responsible for similar functions, indicating a high probability that the individual was female. The bones, despite being poorly preserved, suggested an age range of 30 to 60 years at the time of death.
Female ascetics have been documented throughout history, especially among nobility since the fourth century. Yet, accounts of women using chains in their spiritual practices are exceedingly rare. Traditionally, women in ascetic communities pursued less extreme paths compared to their male counterparts. Elisabetta Boaretto, a researcher involved in the study, noted the uniqueness of this discovery.
"The use of chains by male ascetics is widely documented," – Elisabetta Boaretto
This finding raises questions about the life and identity of this female ascetic. The chains were likely an expression of her dedication and identity as an ascetic. Boaretto explained,
"The chains were likely viewed as integral to her identity as an ascetic," – Boaretto
The burial site was part of a series of crypts at the monastery, adding another layer of historical significance to the discovery. Chains have long been associated with male ascetics who practiced extreme forms of self-discipline. It appears that this woman also embraced such rigorous practices.
"By restricting their physical movements, they created space for their minds and hearts to turn solely to God." – Boaretto
The study emphasizes that the results pertain strictly to biological sex identification, not gender preference.
"It is important to note that our results only show biological sex identification and not gender preference," – the researchers
Findings like these offer a glimpse into the spiritual lives of past societies and challenge our understanding of gender roles within them. The presence of such ascetic practices among women during this period suggests a more complex narrative than previously assumed.
