May Allah Protect Our Ancient Treasures: 4,000-Year-Old Egyptian Painting Stolen from Saqqara Tomb

Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh. It is truly saddening to share that a precious limestone painting, around 4,000 years old, was taken from the tomb of Khentika at the Saqqara necropolis in Egypt. This site, blessed with rich Islamic and ancient history, is home to many important archaeological finds. The painting, dating back to the Old Kingdom's Sixth Dynasty, beautifully illustrated the ancient Egyptian calendar, highlighting the three farming seasons tied to the Nile’s life-giving floods. Sadly, this is the second major theft of ancient Egyptian artefacts in under a month, following the loss of a 3,000-year-old gold bracelet from the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. Such acts are a grave loss to our shared heritage and a reminder of the need for stronger protection of these priceless treasures. Authorities, including Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities, have confirmed the theft and launched an investigation. The tomb had been closed since 2019, and a committee is working to audit its contents and understand how this happened. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities is now increasing security measures and sharing images of the stolen painting at all border points to prevent smuggling. As Muslims, we are reminded of the importance of preserving the legacies and histories given to us by Allah’s creation. Let us pray for justice in recovering these artefacts and for the continued safeguarding of our cultural and historical heritage, insha’Allah. May Allah protect Egypt’s treasures and inspire all responsible authorities to enhance their efforts against such crimes.