Historian Claims to Discover True Location of Jesus’ First Miracle

Historian Tom McCollough believes he has identified the actual site where Jesus performed his first miracle—turning water into wine. His research points to Khirbet Qana, as opposed to Kafr Kanna, which has long been thought to be the location.

“We discovered a large Christian worship cave complex that was used by pilgrims,” McCollough stated.

He further explained that this complex dates back to the late 5th or early 6th century and continued to attract pilgrims during the 12th-century Crusades.

Despite the prevailing idea that Kafr Kanna in Galilee is Cana’s true location, McCollough asserts that Khirbet Qana is actually a Jewish settlement from 323 to 324 BC.

According to various reports, the primary evidence includes a series of tunnels that feature numerous crosses and indications of Christian activity, showing that this area was frequented by early Christians over 1,500 years ago.

“There is a remarkable amount of evidence supporting Khirbet Qana as the true site,” he argued.

Additionally, McCollough discovered an altar shelf with a stone container that could hold five more jars, reminiscent of the six stone jars mentioned in the biblical account of Jesus turning water into wine at Jewish weddings.

Further findings revealed inscriptions referencing Kyrie Iesou, which translates to “Lord Jesus” in Koine Greek.

“The texts from pilgrims visiting Cana in Galilee align closely with our findings of this worship complex,” he said.

McCollough supported his claims with insights from Flavius Josephus, a first-century Jewish historian.

“Josephus’s description of Cana aligns geographically with Khirbet Qana, bolstering our argument,” he told Pen News. “In his references, he describes it as a Jewish village near the Galilee River,” he added. “Khirbet Qana checks all those boxes.”

Moreover, he pointed out that the 1914 Catholic Encyclopedia stated Kafr Kanna wasn’t recognized as a pilgrimage site until the 18th century.

“At that time, the Franciscans promoted ease of access for Christian pilgrimages rather than historical accuracy,” he noted.

Overall, McCollough believes his excavations could lend greater credibility to biblical historicity, prompting a reconsideration of the historical significance of John’s account of Cana and Jesus.

“Our findings indicate that this is indeed a prosperous Jewish village central to many events in Jesus’ life and ministry,” he remarked.

He added, “For the Gospel of John, Kanah represented a sort of refuge or strategic center for Jesus and his disciples when they faced opposition from the Jews.”

Additional discoveries earlier this year also included an ancient garden linked to Jesus’ crucifixion and burial, along with evidence of a significant biblical battle in Megiddo city, located in northern Israel.