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The Ādam Paradox Hypothesis 111
Figure 11.4 — Child burial with ochre and pierced shells, Qafzeh Cave, ~95 ka (after Vanhaeren
& d’Errico, 2006).
This burial (individual Q11) at Qafzeh Cave, Israel, includes
a child interred with ochre staining and pierced seashell
adornments, which are interpreted as grave offerings or personal
ornaments. The arrangement reveals symbolic behaviour and
funerary practice among Middle Palaeolithic Homo sapiens.
At Skhul Cave, Dorothea Bate and Theodore McCown found burials dated
between 120 and 90 ka. Some skeletons were placed in flexed positions, others
accompanied by antlers or tools.
McCown observed cautiously: “The arrangement of the burials suggests intention beyond
mere disposal. There are hints of ritual, though the degree cannot be precisely determined.
”
(McCown & Keith, 1939, p. 212).
Later analyses confirmed cut marks consistent with ritual handling rather than
butchery (Gargett, 1999).
Yet despite these gestures, continuity was lacking. After ~80 ka, the Levantine
record fell silent. No more burials with ochre, no engraved shells, no ornaments.
Erella Hovers lamented: “We see gestures of symbolism, yes. But they do not persist. They
vanish as if forgotten.
” (Hovers, 2006, p. 142).
Scholars have debated why. Climate oscillations during MIS 4 fractured
populations. Genetic evidence suggests demographic bottlenecks, reducing
effective population sizes. And the Levant, a corridor between Africa and
Eurasia, was contested by Neanderthals. Whatever the cause, the Levant
demonstrates capacity without ignition: sparks that could not sustain a flame.