The Dead Sea Scrolls

To call the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls the archaeological find of the twentieth century is an understatement. The world’s understanding of Judaism and early Christianity has been increased to such a degree that I would not hesitate to call it the greatest contribution to non-LDS biblical studies since the Reformation.

This handy volume by Donald W. Parry and Stephen D. Ricks answers seventy basic questions for Latter-day Saints, whetting the appetite for anyone interested in Dead Sea Scroll research. These answers are divided into eight parts, ranging from a description of the discovery to specific texts and insights.

Twenty photographs and illustrations accompany the text, including a map of the Qumran community, a photo of the Copper Scroll, and the locations of the various caves where the scrolls were discovered. A bibliography of Dead Sea Scroll articles written by LDS authors is appended, as well as lists of English translations and general studies on the scrolls.

The good news for Latter-day Saints is that the eminently qualified authors of this little book offer a succinct alternative to wading through scholarly sources that are far beyond the needs of many general readers. As far as this reviewer is aware, no other up-to-date summary of the Dead Sea Scrolls exists that offers in such an excellent manner the important facts concerning this momentous discovery.