what is a scroll in the bible

Unveiling Biblical Scrolls: What is a Scroll in the Bible?

By Jessica JohnsonJanuary 24, 2026

The term 'scroll' in the Bible is evocative, bringing to mind images of ancient times, parchment, and religious texts. But what exactly is a scroll, and why was it significant in biblical times? Let's delve into this fascinating topic.

In biblical times, scrolls were the primary method of recording and preserving information. They were typically composed of parchment or papyrus, materials that were smooth, durable, and easy to write on. The scroll was rolled around two wooden sticks, allowing easy reading and storage.

The Importance of Scrolls in Biblical Times

Scrolls served as the primary means of record-keeping, communication, and learning in biblical times. They were used for writing everything from laws and historical accounts to personal letters and poems. Their importance cannot be overstated; they were the backbone of ancient civilization's knowledge and culture.

ANNOUNCING - ‎The Dead Sea Scrolls: Evidence the Bible Was Never Corrupted. ‎ ‎For centuries, critics have questioned the accuracy of the Bible. They argued that because the Scriptures were copied by hand over many generations, the original message must have been altered, corrupted, or lost. But in the mid-20th century, one archaeological discovery changed that conversation forever. ‎ ‎In 1947, a young shepherd searching for a lost goat near the ancient Qumran Caves stumbled upon something extraordinary—clay jars hidden deep inside caves. Inside those jars were ancient scrolls, later known as the Dead Sea Scrolls. ‎ ‎What made this discovery so remarkable was not just their age, but their content. Among the hundreds of manuscripts was a complete copy of the book of Isaiah dating back to around 125 B.C.E. This was over 1,000 years older than the oldest Hebrew manuscripts scholars previously had. ‎ ‎The question was simple: Had the Bible changed over time? ‎ ‎When scholars carefully compared the ancient Isaiah scroll with the later manuscripts, the result was astonishing. The text was nearly identical. While there were small spelling variations, the message, teachings, and prophecies remained unchanged. ‎ ‎This discovery struck at the heart of criticism against the Bible. It showed that God’s Word had been preserved with extraordinary care through centuries of copying. ‎ ‎This agrees with the Bible’s own claim: ‎ ‎“The green grass dries up, the blossom withers, but the word of our God endures forever.” — Isaiah 40:8 ‎ ‎And as the apostle Peter later wrote: ‎ ‎“The word of Jehovah endures forever.” ‎— 1 Peter 1:25 ‎ ‎The Dead Sea Scrolls stand as powerful evidence that the Bible is not merely an ancient religious book. It is a carefully preserved record whose message has endured the test of time. ‎ ‎In a world where human writings often fade or become corrupted, the Bible remains unique—its message intact, its truth preserved, and its reliability confirmed by history itself. | Facebook

Scrolls were often handcrafted and painstakingly illuminated with intricate designs and colorful inks. They were seen as precious objects, cared for meticulously, and passed down through generations. This is evident in the Bible, where we find numerous references to scrolls and their significance.

Scrolls in the Old Testament

The Old Testament contains multiple passages referring to scrolls. For instance, in the book of Exodus, God commands Moses to write down the laws He gives him on a scroll (Exodus 24:12). Later, in Deuteronomy, Moses writes down the teachings of the law "in a book" (Deuteronomy 27:3), which was likely a scroll.

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Bible Manuscripts—Ancient Scrolls, Codex | JW.ORG

In 2 Kings 22, a scroll is discovered in the temple during the reign of King Josiah. This scroll, containing the law of Moses, is credited with instigating religious reform in Judah. This incident underscores the power and influence of written words, preserved on scrolls.

Scrolls in the New Testament

The New Testament similarly acknowledges the importance of scrolls. In Luke 4:17-19, Jesus reads from a scroll in the synagogue at Nazareth, fulfilling the prophecy from Isaiah 61:1-2. This incident highlights the role of scrolls in religious teachings and']);

worship during Jesus' time. Additionally, many of the letters written by Paul and other apostles, which form a significant portion of the New Testament, were likely written on scrolls. These were then copied and distributed to various churches.

an old book with writing on it laying on top of a wooden table next to a candle

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Special Types of Scrolls in the Bible

The Bible mentions several special types of scrolls, each with its unique significance.

Scroll Type Significance Scroll of the Law Contained the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, read aloud in the synagogue during services. Sealed Scroll Used for privacy, the contents were known only to the writer and the recipient, sealed with wax.

The Book of Revelation describes a scroll sealed with seven seals (Revelation 5:1-2), symbolizing the unknown or hidden. This scroll is eventually opened by the Lamb, revealing what was previously hidden from view.

Understanding the use of scrolls in the Bible provides valuable insights into the cultural, historical, and religious contexts of the time. They were not just physical objects; they were repositories of knowledge, tools of communication, and symbols of authority. Today, while we no longer use scrolls in our daily lives, their influence can still be felt in our libraries, museums, and even in the way we preserve and share knowledge digitally.

In the words of the Bible, "The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever" (Isaiah 40:8). This enduring power of the word, preserved on scrolls and now in the digital age, continues to shape our lives and inspire us today.