Dead Sea Scrolls: Life and Faith in Ancient Times

In 1947, a shepherd stumbled upon a hidden cave along the shore of the Dead Sea. Concealed inside were ancient scrolls that had not been seen for 2,000 years. After extensive excavation, a total of 972 remarkably preserved scrolls were found, including the earliest Biblical texts ever discovered. Now known as the Dead Sea Scrolls, they have been called the most significant archaeological find of the last century. 

The Franklin Institute's Dead Sea Scrolls: Life and Faith in Ancient Times exhibit presents one of the most comprehensive collections of ancient artifacts from Israel ever organized, featuring a total of twenty scrolls, displayed ten at a time, including the oldest known copies of the Hebrew Bible and four never-before-seen scrolls. With more than 600 items on display, visitors will experience firsthand the traditions, beliefs and iconic objects from everyday life, more than 2000 years ago. These fascinating artifacts, such as an actual three-ton stone from Jerusalem's Western Wall, highlight the millennia-old traditions that continue to impact modern religions and society today. Included among the collection's artifacts are the limestone capitals used in the architecture of the administrative centers during the first temple period (1006-586 BCE). Visitors will see artifacts from Jerusalem's City of David, limestone Ossuaries from the early Roman period, and an ancient signature preserved for millennia on the Archer Seal. Together these artifacts reveal precious details about the culture, rituals, and beliefs of ancient Israel, spanning thousands of years. 

This limited engagement of Dead Sea Scrolls: Life and Faith in Ancient Times will only be at The Franklin Institute through October 14, 2012. Reserve your tickets today, and do not miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience!

This exhibition is created by the IAA, from the collections of the Israel National Treasures and produced by Discovery Times Square and The Franklin Institute. The exhibition is curated by Dr. Risa Levitt Kohn (Professor at San Diego State University) and Debora Ben Ami (Iron Age collection curator at the IAA). Planning and design by Ralph Appelbaum Associates, New York, NY and consultation by noted Dead Sea Scrolls expert, Dr. Lawrence Schiffman (Vice-Provost of Undergraduate Education, Yeshiva University).