The acquisition of four of the seven Dead Sea Scrolls in 1955 represented a crucial development in the study of ancient texts and religions. The scrolls, discovered in the Qumran caves along the Dead Sea from 1947 onwards, contained some of the oldest surviving manuscripts of biblical and extra-biblical texts. They are believed to have been written by the Essenes, a Jewish sect during the Second Temple period. The scrolls include portions of the Hebrew Bible as well as texts unique to the Essenes, providing insight into the beliefs, practices, and community life of this group.

Abraham M. L. Cohen, an antiquities dealer, played a pivotal role in this transaction by facilitating the sale of the scrolls to the fledgling State of Israel. The Israeli government, keen on securing its cultural and historical heritage, prioritized the acquisition of these texts to bolster its national identity linked to the ancient land. Their acquisition not only had implications for historical scholarship but also resonated deeply with the Jewish population, reinforcing their connection to the region's historical narratives.

The retrieval of these scrolls spurred a significant increase in archaeological efforts in the area, leading to further discoveries and academic endeavors focused on the manuscripts. Scholars worldwide began to analyze the content, providing fresh insights into historical events, religious practices, and the development of the biblical text. The scrolls have become a fundamental cornerstone for understanding early Judaism and the roots of Christianity, bridging ancient history with contemporary faith practices.