What Are the Dead Sea Scrolls — In Biblical Context
The Dead Sea Scrolls are ancient Jewish manuscripts discovered in 1947 near the Dead Sea, containing the oldest known copies of Old Testament books.
The Dead Sea Scrolls are ancient Jewish manuscripts discovered in 1947 near the Dead Sea, containing the oldest known copies of Old Testament books.
"The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever." — Isaiah 40:8 (KJV)
The Biblical Context
Discovered by a Bedouin shepherd in caves near Qumran, the Dead Sea Scrolls date from approximately 250 BC to 68 AD. They include copies of every Old Testament book except Esther, along with commentaries, sectarian documents, and other writings. The most significant find was a complete scroll of Isaiah, over 1,000 years older than any previously known copy. Remarkably, the text was virtually identical to later manuscripts, confirming the accuracy of Scripture's transmission over centuries. The scrolls were likely preserved by the Essenes, a Jewish sect. This discovery is considered the greatest archaeological find of the 20th century for biblical studies, powerfully demonstrating God's preservation of His Word.
Where It Sits in Scripture
Supporting Passages
"For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled."
"For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven."
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