Shroud of Turin, claimed to be Jesus' burial cloth, contaminated with carrot and red coral DNA
Yahoo • • world
Key Points:
- A new DNA analysis of the Shroud of Turin reveals genetic material from multiple humans and a wide variety of plant and animal species, including carrots, melons, and red coral, suggesting extensive contamination over centuries.
- Some DNA traces imply a possible Indian influence, leading researchers to hypothesize the cloth may have originated there, though this is contested by experts who emphasize medieval European origins based on carbon dating and textile technology.
- The absence of species typical of the Levant and the presence of plants introduced to Europe only after the 16th century support the view that the shroud was contaminated long after the time it purportedly dates from.
- Carbon dating from 1989 places the shroud's creation between 1260 and 1390, aligning with historical records and supporting the consensus that it is a medieval forgery rather than a 2,000-year-old relic.
- Experts caution that the diversity of DNA found likely results from centuries of handling, environmental exposure, and restoration efforts, rather than proving the shroud's origin or authenticity.
