Dead sea scrolls fragment

A fragment of the Dead Sea Scrolls, discovered in Qumran caves between 1947 and 1956, containing biblical and sectarian texts that revolutionized biblical studies.

About this subject

The Dead Sea Scrolls are a collection of about 900 manuscripts and fragments found in 11 caves near Qumran in the West Bank between 1947 and 1956. The discovery began when Bedouin shepherds found the first scrolls in a cave. The texts date from the 3rd century BCE to the 1st century CE, mostly written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek.

Among the manuscripts are copies of nearly every book of the Old Testament, except for Esther, as well as apocryphal and pseudepigraphal texts. They also include sectarian writings such as the Community Rule, the Damascus Document, and the War Scroll, which reveal the life and beliefs of a Jewish community, possibly the Essenes.

The significance of the Dead Sea Scrolls is immense for biblical textual criticism, as they provide Hebrew versions of texts earlier than medieval copies, confirming and correcting the transmission of the biblical text. Moreover, they shed light on Second Temple Judaism and the origins of Christianity.

Today, most fragments are housed at the Shrine of the Book at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem. Many have been digitized and are available online. Due to the fragility of the material, conservation is delicate and access to the originals is restricted.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Dead Sea Scrolls?

They are a collection of ancient manuscripts and fragments found in Qumran caves, containing biblical and religious texts dating from the 3rd century BCE to the 1st century CE.

How many fragments exist?

Approximately 900 manuscripts and thousands of fragments were discovered, though the exact number varies among scholars.

Which is the most famous fragment?

The Isaiah Scroll (1QIsa) is one of the most famous for its completeness and textual importance, but the Copper Scroll and the Temple Scroll are also notable.