Priests in the Political Leadership

2nd Century BCE–1st Century CE

1In the Community council (there shall be) twelve men and three priests, perfect in everything that has been revealed from all 2the law to implement truth, justice, judgment, compassionate love and unassuming behaviour of one to another, 3to preserve faithfulness in the land with firm purpose and repentant spirit in order to atone for sin by doing…

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This passage refers to a group of twelve men and three priests that exercises a leadership role in the community. The description of the council’s role and behavior draws on the language of Micah 6:8 and Isaiah 26:1–3.

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Texts from Qumran on the Priesthood

2nd Century BCE–1st Century CE
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Temple and Priesthood in Ancient Judaism

4th Century BCE–6th Century CE
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What Are the Dead Sea Scrolls?

2nd Century BCE–1st Century CE

Found in caves in the Judean Desert, the Dead Sea Scrolls preserve the writings of an ancient Jewish sect.

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What Is Rule of the Community?

2nd Century BCE–1st Century CE

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