Last week, Israeli archaeologists announced the discovery of a clay seal bearing the name of Hezekiah son of Ahaz, who was king of Judea in the 8th century BCE. The seal, which experts believe to be authentic, includes a depiction of a winged sun, a common motif of contemporary Egyptian religious imagery. Joshua Berman argues that Hezekiah’s use of this symbol does not conflict with the Bible’s statement that the king broke with the idolatry of his predecessors:
It is true that the winged sun is a symbol of an ancient Egyptian deity. However, both the sun and the motif of protective wings [were common] symbols across the ancient Near East. In fact, we find them amply attested within the Bible itself, in both profane and sacral references. The sun is [used as] a metaphor for strength. . . . Wings are a symbol of protection. . . . It is no surprise, therefore, that each of these images can describe God as well. . . .
The image of the winged sun is clear in Hezekiah’s seal. Less clear is what it precisely symbolizes. Is the sun here a representation of God? . . . Or, perhaps, the might of Hezekiah himself? . . . It is difficult to say. What is clear is that the symbol in no way suggests that Hezekiah worshipped an Egyptian deity. Were that case, the very name on the seal would read “Ḥezek-Amun” or “Ḥezek-Re” [i.e., “strength of Amun” or “strength of Ra”]. Ḥizki-yahu [“my strength is God”] leaves no doubts as to this monarch’s loyalties.
Read more on Torah Musings: http://www.torahmusings.com/2015/12/hezekiahs-seal/