The cistern (diam. 7 m, depth 5 m, volume c. 245 cu m; Fig. 2) is a karstic cavity, utilized for storing water.It was coated with a double layer of hydraulic plaster that sealed the karstic fissures (Fig. 3). The plaster did not survive in its entirety and the sides of the cistern were visibly eroded in several places, which may be the reason for suspending its usage.
Pottery vessels dating to the Early Roman period (first century BCE–first century CE) were found on the floor of the cistern, including jars (Fig. 4:1–6) and a fragment of a jug (Fig. 4:7), as well as a ribbed limestone cup (Figs. 5, 6) that is characteristic of the Jewish settlement in the latter part of the Second Temple period.

The finds discovered on the floor of the cistern indicate that it should be attributed to the Early Roman period.
The dating connects the cistern to the rural settlement, which had previously been excavated at the site and was ascribed to this period. The cistern and other agricultural installations revealed nearby are probably part of working and farming areas that were located along the edges of the settlement, whereas its center was most likely situated at the top of the tell. The cistern ceased to be used at some point, probably at the end of the Early Roman period, because the plaster that sealed its sides had eroded.