A new study published in the journal Heritage throws fresh doubt on the age of the Shroud of Turin, a controversial relic believed by some to be the burial cloth of Jesus Christ.
The Shroud, a length of linen bearing the faint image of a man, has been intensely studied for decades. Previous radiocarbon dating placed its origin in the Middle Ages, around 1260-1390 AD, casting doubt on its authenticity.
However, researchers in this latest study used a novel X-ray technique and found the fabric could be as old as 2,000 years, potentially aligning with the time of Jesus.
The findings contradict the established scientific consensus and reignite the debate surrounding the Shroud’s origin.
The study’s authors acknowledge limitations, including the need for further analysis on more samples. Additionally, they propose specific environmental conditions the Shroud would have needed to be kept in for its age to be genuine.
Whether the Shroud is a genuine relic or a medieval creation remains to be seen. This new study, however, ensures the debate will continue.