With the recent announcement that the Dead Sea Scrolls will be posted on Google for everyone to see at http://www.palmbeachpost.com/money/google-to-bring-dead-sea-scrolls-online-980794.html?cxtype=rss_money_16350, I thought it might be a good time to introduce everyone to one of my favorite sites, the place where the Scrolls were first discovered.
Khirbet Qumran is an archaeological site nestled in the hills about a mile inland from the Dead Sea. The hike up to the ruins was hot due to the very dry climate of the surrounding desert.
The beauty of the desert landscape made the heat worth it. From the visitors center Shmuel and I could see the ancient ruins to our right, with the Dead Sea stretching out behind in the distance. Though the connection between the ruins of Qumran and the caves where the scrolls were found is not known, it’s assumed by most archaeologists that the ruins contained a monastery, where the scrolls were written.
The beauty of the desert landscape made the heat worth it. From the visitors center Shmuel and I could see the ancient ruins to our right, with the Dead Sea stretching out behind in the distance. Though the connection between the ruins of Qumran and the caves where the scrolls were found is not known, it’s assumed by most archaeologists that the ruins contained a monastery, where the scrolls were written.
Dating back to the iron ages, the ruins can still be clearly made out amidst their sandy, rocky surroundings. The focus on water and its storage is an integral part of the structure, showing that not much has changed in this location. One of the ruined cisterns clearly showed the change that did occur- when an earthquake raked the building on the east side, causing a crack in the cistern.
Ask about Khirbet Qumran on your next visit to Israel. Also, check out the Dead Sea Scrolls once they are up on Google. The story of their discovery can be found here: http://www.bib-arch.org/online-exclusives/dead-sea-scrolls-02.asp.
~~~~~~~~~~
IsraelExperts is a fully-licensed Israel tour operator; our head office is in Israel. Comprised of experienced Israel destination professionals, logistics experts, informal educators and accredited tour guides, IsraelExperts works with major organizations around the world in the field of Israel-Diaspora relations and Israel education, and offers you its ability to provide quality innovative programs. You can find us on line at www.israelexperts.com or email us at education@israelexperts.com for more information.
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment