Tel Aviv University Solves Qumran Calendar Dispute

Researchers at Tel Aviv University propose a new solution to the historical puzzle of the Dead Sea Scrolls, explaining why the calendar used by the Qumran community was abandoned. The study focuses on the calendar at Qumran, which differed from the official calendar of Jerusalem and caused conflict between the two groups. Researchers suggest the calendar’s abandonment stemmed from a connection to a Hasmonean king.

The Qumran community, associated with the Dead Sea Scrolls, adhered to a solar calendar with 364 days, differing from the lunar calendar used in Jerusalem. This discrepancy led to disagreements regarding religious observances and the timing of festivals. The new research identifies a specific Hasmonean king, likely John Hyrcanus I, as the originator of the Qumran calendar.

The study posits that after Hyrcanus I died, his successors reverted to the lunar calendar, causing the Qumran community to abandon their solar calendar as well. This shift explains the historical records showing the Qumran calendar falling into disuse. Further research may reveal more details about the calendar's origins and the community's beliefs.