While in Jerusalem last month, I read in a guide that the Israel Museum had an exhibit with the oldest surviving Biblical text in the world. That alone made my visit to the museum worthwhile. The Dead Sea Scrolls, the ossuaries of Herod and Caiaphas, and the only ancient inscription with the name of Pontius Pilate were icing on the cake.
The words recorded in the small silver priestly amulets are the same words from the Book of Numbers that we will hear at Mass tomorrow for the Solemnity of the Mother of God. “The Lord bless you and keep you! The Lord let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you! The Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace!”
I stood in awe by the exhibit containing the oldest record of the Word of God: 2,650 years old!
Found in burial chambers in 1979, it took three years to unroll these very delicate scrolls.
I find it providential that the oldest surviving text of Scripture contains words of blessing. It reflects the starting point of God’s dealings with us – it begins with Him blessing us by reaching out to us in order to grant us salvation.
I wish everyone a happy and blessed new year 2016!
Pictures are mine, all rights reserved.
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