A new study using radiocarbon dating and artificial intelligence (AI) suggests some Dead Sea Scrolls are older than previously thought, potentially dating back to the 4th century BCE. The AI, named Enoch, analyzed high-resolution images of the scrolls and accurately predicted their age in 85% of cases. This research refines age estimations, impacting historical understanding of ancient Judaism and early Christianity and offering a less destructive method for future manuscript analysis. The findings, published in PLOS One, are considered a significant advancement in the field.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.