[The fall of the Jericho walls]

Area of Science:

• Archaeology
• Ancient History
• Medical History

Context:

• Biblical texts and archaeological findings were examined.
• Investigated the hypothesis linking the fall of Jericho to Schistosoma hematobium.

Purpose:

• To assess the plausibility of a Schistosoma hematobium epidemic causing the fall of Jericho.

Summary:

• Evidence supports the presence of the snail intermediate host (Bulinus truncatus) but not the disease itself.
• The hypothesis remains tenable if the city's inhabitants evacuated, as suggested by evidence.
• Biblical passages (Rev 2:19-22) are not considered direct evidence of infection.

Impact:

• Provides a nuanced perspective on historical events and potential disease influences.
• Highlights the importance of considering environmental and biological factors in interpreting archaeological and historical data.