Ancient Treasures and the Dead Sea Scrolls uses a chronological framework
to present the early history of the Jewish people through artifacts and
references to the Bible. The exhibition draws on recent archaeological discoveries,
historical research and the analysis of scriptural sources.
It covers more than a thousand years of Jewish history, from the period of
King David around 1000 B.C.E. to the birth of Christianity in the first century C.E.
In addition to featuring actual Dead Sea Scrolls, the exhibition contains items
relating to the religious practices of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem,
as well as objects from the daily lives of the Israelites.
This was a period of great political, military and religious ferment, giving rise
to both Rabbinic Judaism and Christianity. Introduction David, son of Jesse of Bethlehem A library in a single book The First Temple Period: 10th to the 6th century BCE Kings and Palaces The first Temple of Jerusalem Religious practice in the Temple Polytheistic beliefs Life in First Temple times: Israel and Judah Living under the sun The gentle caress of oil I decked you out in finery... The weight of silver Fun and games! When writing speaks A Time of Invasion and Exile The Second Temple Period: Starting in the 6th century BCE The discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls Archaeological digs at Qumran The Community Rule The War Scroll The Isaiah Scroll - Manuscript B Deciphering the Dead Sea Scrolls - an enormous task 1st century CE: Through a historian's eyes Ossuaries In the sumptuous residences of nobles and priests Crucifixion as a form of execution and public humiliation After the destruction of the Second Temple Emerging from the same ground: Jewish synagogues and Christian churches The Menorah and the Cross: symbols of hope and protection Judaism and Christianity - each has its own symbols, and yet... David's heritage A timeless book Byzantine mosaic representing David Epilogue Useful Web links Suggested Readings Teachers' overview Understanding the Dead Sea Scrolls lecture series Photos of the exhibition installation Credits
Date Created: February 15, 2005 | Last Updated: April 30, 2010
