
By Gavin Boyle
Nick Shakoour, who plays Zebedee on THE CHOSEN, visited the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in California to explore the limited time Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit and learn more about these incredible historical documents.
“I’ve actually always been curious about [the Dead Sea Scrolls], so I’m super excited to be here and do this walk through and experience it because it’s cool. I mean, I’m all about things that are, you know, uncovered from history and exploration,” Shakoour told Movieguide®.
“I always think on a cellular level, maybe, I have always had a sense and a strong connection to these times and I’ve always sensed that,” Shakoour added. “I don’t know why. I mean, I get that I’m from that part of the world, but I feel a direct connection to those times.”
The exhibit, which runs through Sept. 2, allows visitors to get up close and personal with many of the artifacts found while the Dead Sea Scrolls and their surrounding ruins were excavated. In doing so, visitors are able to engage with history and connect their faith with artifacts dating to the time of Jesus.
“Our cutting-edge gallery showcases how 21st-century technology is unlocking the secrets of these ancient texts,” the Reagan Library explains on its website. “Discover how advanced imaging techniques, DNA analysis, and artificial intelligence are revolutionizing our understanding of the scrolls and the people who created them.”
“This exhibition is more than a display of artifacts — it’s a journey through human spirituality, resilience, and the enduring quest for meaning,” the website continues. “From the shores of the Dead Sea to the frontiers of modern science, the story of the Dead Sea Scrolls continues to unfold.”
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While the history behind the Dead Sea Scrolls is amazing, more importantly, these documents provide some of the most sound evidence that the Bible is a valid historical document. Dating back to third century BC, the scrolls include nearly the entire Old Testament and line up with the biblical text we read today. Furthermore, these texts include the book of Isaiah, which included a message about a coming messiah.
“For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulder,” reads Isaiah 9:6-7. “And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord almighty will accomplish this.”
Like any other Christian who visits this exhibit, Shakoour’s faith was strengthened and brought to life by these artifacts. While faith is all about believing without 100% proof, these documents provide unshakable validity to the Bible and that the Lord’s word has been passed down unaltered for multiple millennia.
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