New study proposes resolution to ancient Dead Sea Scrolls calendar mystery

The short version

• A study suggests the Qumran sect actually used its 364-day calendar during its early history, which contributed to its separation from Jerusalem authorities.[ScienceDaily]
• The 364-day system maintained 52 complete weeks but drifted from the true solar year by about 1.25 days annually, causing seasonal misalignment.[ScienceDaily]
• Researchers propose the sect eventually abandoned the calendar due to astronomical drift and shifting relations with Hasmonean leadership.[ScienceDaily]

Key facts

• Prof. Eshbal Ratzon of Tel Aviv University published the study in the Tarbiz Quarterly for Jewish Studies.[ScienceDaily]
• The Qumran 364-day calendar contained 52 complete weeks, ensuring religious holidays occurred on the same weekday each year.[ScienceDaily]
• Nearly twenty scrolls discovered at Qumran focus on calendar systems and astronomy.[ScienceDaily]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• Scientists may have solved a 2,000-year-old Dead Sea Scrolls mysteryScienceDaily - Science