Delve into the sensational global reaction to Moses Shapira’s presentation of a mysterious leather scroll to London’s scholars in 1883. Described intriguingly as a “very curious Phœnician copy of Deuteronomy,” this artifact quickly captivated the world’s imagination. Was it possible that Shapira had acquired the oldest known biblical manuscript, predating even the famed Dead Sea Scrolls discovered over six decades later? As syndicated news reports spread like wildfire across major newspapers worldwide, speculation soared. Could this truly be a contemporaneous copy of Deuteronomy, offering unprecedented insights into ancient biblical texts? Join us as we explore the fascinating journey of this controversial discovery, from its initial acclaim to the intense scrutiny that followed, and consider its potential place in the storied quest for the earliest biblical manuscripts. This episode is a must-watch for history buffs, scholars, and anyone intrigued by the ever-evolving story of our understanding of ancient texts.

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