Archaeologists Discovered an Ancient Projectile Inscribed With a Threatening Message

[Judi Lynn]

Last edited Thu Apr 2, 2026, 09:17 AM - Edit history (1)

Ancient Greeks often inscribed messages on the objects they shot at their adversaries—in this case, doing so with a warning.

By Elizabeth Rayne
Published: Mar 31, 2026 8:30 AM EDT

Estimated read time
4 min read




Here’s what you’ll learn when you read this story:

Weapons of war in ancient times often included slingshots fired from great distances, and sometimes, the most lethal part was personalized.

Ancient Greeks often decorated or inscribed the lead projectiles they shot at their adversaries, and a newly discovered one of these artifacts reads, “Learn your lesson.”

It’s unclear which battle it was used in, but it possibly felled a warrior when Roman forces attempted to invade the city of Antiochia Hippos.


Even in the ancient world, technology had limits—but sarcasm did not. Greek warriors wielded swords and spears, yet their slingshots offered a different kind of firepower: the chance to send insults straight at the enemy. Some of their ammo carried messages that feel less like archaeology and more like ancient-day internet snark.

Battle slogans meant to mock the enemy were indeed a not-uncommon practice back then. Lead projectiles used for slingshot ammunition were often inscribed with either the name of the attacker or with images of scorpions and thunderbolts, the latter probably in honor of Zeus. Slingshot warfare was serious. Shots could reach distances of over 1,300 feet (about 400 meters), though the usual combat distance is thought to have been shorter, with city defenders crouching behind walls and taking aim at close quarters. Sarcastic messages translating to “Taste it!” and “Take that!” have been found before. This one, which surfaced near a burial cave, shouted, “Learn your lesson!”

More:
https://www.popularmechanics.com/science/archaeology/a70827419/learn-your-lesson-slingshot/

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