The Dead Sea Scrolls
June 28 - December 28, 2008
The Dead Sea Scrolls — objects of great mystery, intrigue and significance — are widely acknowledged to be among the greatest archaeological treasures ever discovered.
The Dead Sea Scrolls date from 250 BCE to 68 CE and are our bridge to a period that laid the foundation of western traditions, beliefs and practices throughout the past two millennia. Among the Scrolls are some 207 biblical manuscripts that represent nearly every book in the Hebrew Bible (Christian Old Testament) and that predate any previously known copies by more than 1,000 years.
Thanks to the generosity of the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) the N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences will display 12 authentic Dead Sea Scrolls over the six month exhibition representing portions of the books of Genesis, Isaiah, Deuteronomy, Exodus and others. All Scrolls will be fully interpreted with translation of text and background information. 
Also included in the exhibition will be more than 100 authentic artifacts (primarily coins and pottery) from Qumran, the ancient settlement on the northwestern shores of the Dead Sea in Israel closest to the caves where the scrolls were discovered.
In addition to biblical manuscripts, sectarian (non-biblical) manuscripts were recovered that reflect a wide variety of literary genres: biblical commentary, religious legal writings, liturgical (prayer) texts, and compositions that predict a coming apocalypse. These Scrolls, some of which will also be on exhibit, reveal the fascinating transition between the ancient religion of the Bible and Rabbinic Judaism and Christianity.
In addition to displaying scrolls and ancient artifacts, the Museum of Natural Sciences will explore the scientific interpretation, conservation and preservation of the Scrolls, as well as the natural history of the Dead Sea region.
Ticket information
| Members | |
|---|---|
| Adults | $15 |
| Students/Seniors (60+) /Military w. ID | $12 |
| Children (5 to 11) | $10 |
| Children under 5 | $3 |
| General public | |
|---|---|
| Adults | $22 |
| Students/Seniors (60+) /Military w. ID | $16 |
| Children (5 to 11) | $12 |
| Children under 5 | $3 |
Note: Admission is FREE to all permanent exhibits
Ticket sales will be available on-site during the exhibition. Ticket pre-sale options are being explored; please check back here later for information.
Due to the delicate nature of the scrolls and other artifacts:
- no strollers are permitted
- no photography is permitted
This exhibition is made possible by the scholars, curators and conservators of Israel and the Israel Antiquities Authority. The IAA oversees Israel’s antiquities and ancient sites, their excavation, preservation, conservation, study and publication, as well as the country’s national treasures. The National Treasures Department is in charge of registering all the antiquities in the country, as well as advising museums, initiating exhibitions and lending objects for display. All the objects that will be exhibited belong to the IAA.
The Conservation Department of the IAA was established in 1988 as the professional arm specializing in conservation. The department is charged with preserving the archaeological and cultural heritage of the country for the education of future generations.
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