For decades, rumors have swirled that the CIA secretly located the Ark of the Covenant, the legendary biblical artifact said to hold the Ten Commandments and possess divine power. But is there any truth to these claims? Here’s what we know—and what remains a mystery.
The Latest Claims (2023-2024)
Recent conspiracy theories suggest:
- The CIA allegedly tracked the Ark to Ethiopia (where local tradition claims it’s kept in Aksum’s Church of St. Mary of Zion).
- Classified documents hint at Cold War-era searches for biblical relics.
- A retired agent’s memoir (unverified) mentions a “highly sensitive” artifact recovery mission in the Middle East.
🔹 Reality Check: The CIA has never confirmed discovering the Ark. Most claims stem from speculation and fringe theories.
Historical Context: The CIA’s Interest in Religious Relics
- Operation Moses (1984): The CIA did help Ethiopian Jews flee to Israel—fueling rumors they also secured the Ark.
- Nazi Connections: Some believe Hitler’s Ahnenerbe (occult research unit) searched for the Ark, and post-WWII intelligence agencies followed the trail.
- Biblical Archaeology Projects: Declassified docs show the U.S. government monitored Middle Eastern archaeology but no proof of the Ark’s recovery.
Where the Ark Might Be (According to Legends)
- Ethiopia – The Ethiopian Orthodox Church claims to safeguard it in Aksum.
- Jerusalem’s Temple Mount – Some believe it’s hidden beneath the Dome of the Rock.
- Egypt or Jordan – Linked to the Copper Scroll (Dead Sea Scrolls hint at its location).
- Lost to History – Possibly destroyed by Babylonians in 586 BC.
Why the CIA Would Care About the Ark
- Geopolitical Power: Controlling a relic tied to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam could shift Middle Eastern influence.
- Weaponization Theories: Some fringe theorists claim the Ark emits “divine energy” (or even radiation).
- Cold War Espionage: Both U.S. and Soviet agencies explored ancient technology myths (see also: Nazi Bell, Tesla files).
The Verdict: No Solid Evidence
- No declassified CIA files mention the Ark.
- Ethiopia’s claim remains unverified—no outsiders have seen the artifact.
- Most experts consider it lost or destroyed.
