According to a report published in Time Magazine online, Simcha Jacobovici, the Canadian producer of documentaries on the Bible and Biblical archaeology is suing archeologist Joe Zias for defamation. According to Jacobovici, Zia’s accusation that his discoveries are dubious has affected his work.

Below is an excerpt from the article:

Simcha Jacobovici, a Canadian documentary maker specializing in biblical archaeology, is suing a retired scientist and former archaeological museum curator named Joe Zias, who has accused him of publicizing scientifically dubious theories. Many of Jacobovici’s documentaries have focused on artifacts that purport to reveal new interpretations of early Christianity, including the notion that the remains of Jesus and his family were buried in a tomb underneath modern-day Jerusalem. Jacobovici claims that Zias’ criticisms are libelous and have cost him television contracts and money.

The dusty world of biblical archaeology directly affects — not to say inspires — the hopes and dreams of millions of faithful people who might buy purported relics or tune in to television shows about them. And, so, there has arisen around it a thriving industry in Jesus-era coins and lamps, and pre-Christian Judaica such as seals and seal impressions from the era of the biblical kings — and in books and movies about them.

To read the article in its entirety and the issues involved in the million-dollar lawsuit, visit Time online.

Claude Mariottini
Professor of Old Testament
Northern Baptist Seminary