"Valuable biblical artifact, known as the 'Ezekiel Papyrus', showcased in Spain's National Library"
Unveiling Ancient Wisdom: Spain Puts the Ezekiel Papyrus on Display
Are you ready to dive into a fascinating historical adventure? The National Library of Spain is inviting you to witness history up-close, as they showcase the oldest preserved document in their collection – the Ezekiel Papyrus or Codex P967. This captivating exhibition, titled The Ezekiel Papyrus: The Tale of Codex P967, runs until 1 November 2025, right in the heart of Madrid!
This exhibition offers a glimpse into the original papyrus, penned on both sides, that the library has safeguarded since 1983. The first five pages of this ancient wisdom will be on display for the first three months, with subsequent pages rotating in thereafter.
Originally, the Ezekiel Papyrus probably dates back to the 3rd century AD and originally had a whopping 236 pages. Its sacred text includes Ezekiel, Daniel (featuring Bel and Susanna), and Esther in the Greek translation, remarkably close to the ancient Septuagint or Seventy translation. With a unique identifier assigned to it in the official list of Greek manuscripts – P967 – this extraordinary artifact is a key piece in understanding the evolution of the Old Testament!
This exhibition is the fruit of collaboration with the Pastor Foundation for Classical Studies, the manuscript's current owner, and the Friends of the National Library of Spain Foundation (FABNE). Originally discovered in the Mir necropolis (Egypt) in the late 19th or early 20th century, the Ezekiel Papyrus embarked on an extraordinary journey.
The papyrus was dismantled and sold on the antiquities market between the 1930s and the late 1950s, scattering it across diverse collections worldwide. Now, thanks to modern technology, 200 of the surviving pages of the original have been virtually reunited.
Take a closer look at the Codex's vibrant past through high-quality images of parts cautiously preserved at the Chester Beatty Library in Dublin, Princeton University, the University of Cologne, and the Monastery of Montserrat in Barcelona. These crucial fragments will be presented together in a captivating circular tour.
To complement this riveting visual experience, the exhibition offers a range of historical documents displayed in five cases, showcasing replicas of Roman-era writing tools, Greek and Hebrew manuscript Bibles, the Complutensian Polyglot Bible, and breath-taking prints of Ezekiel crafted by Michelangelo and Raphael.
According to the exhibition's curators, the papyrologists and hellenists Raquel Martínez Hernández and Sofía Torallas Tovar, the singularity of the Ezekiel Papyrus lies not just in its exceptional historical and archaeological value but also in the riveting story of its discovery, dispersion, and preservation. The enchanting tale forms the core of the exhibition's narrative development.
The exhibition's objectives? It encourages the public to delve deeper into the history of this priceless manuscript and marvel at the skillful translations of the sacred text into Greek, appreciate these ancient manuscripts' beauty, and ponder the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
Furthermore, it seeks to emphasize the extraordinary historical and cultural richness of the manuscript, spark curiosity, and instigate necessary discussions on the ethical treatment of cultural heritage and our responsibility in safeguarding, studying, and appreciating it.
The Ezekiel Papyrus was brought to life by the exhibition design by Rocamora Design and Architecture, which aiming to create a stunning, immersive, and inspiring space. Speaking about his vision, Ángel Rocamora explained, "This place is where one doesn't just observe a story, but dwells in it; a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the Bible, traverse its pages, and walk through its text."
Witness the narrative of Ezekiel in a contemporary and immersive offering, connecting us with history while taking us to the Nile, Egypt, and the heart of the Old Testament. Join us on this journey, as a live, pulsating golden papyrus heart breathes history, light, and mystery, nestled in the geometric center of the National Library, guarding extraordinary documents.
The Ezekiel Papyrus: The Story of Codex P967 exhibition goes beyond the library walls, near the antechamber of the María Moliner Reading Room, at the National Library of Spain. Moreover, the work will endure through the exhibition catalogue, already available, as well as a future digital facsimile to be added to a digital repository. So, even after the exhibition closes, the Ezekiel Papyrus will stay within reach, waiting for us to reconnect and revel in its timeless wisdom.
Are you passionate about preserving history and encouraging others to do the same? Get involved with our #TogetherInThisMission initiative at Evangelical Focus, dedicating yourself to our shared pursuit of preserving and cherishing our rich heritage.
[References](1) Biblioteca Nacional de España. (2021). The Ezekiel Papyrus. https://vocesdeevangelio.com/cancun-america-todos-en-cancun-del-21-al-22-de-agosto-2021(2) Pastor Foundation for Classical Studies. (n.d.). The Pre-Seventy Texts. https://pastorfoundation.org/pre-seventy-texts/(3) The Friends of the National Library of Spain Foundation (FABNE). (n.d.). Working for the Library. https://fndacionfabne.jimdo.com/en/about-us/
- Expand your knowledge beyond ancient manuscripts by exploring an eclectic mix of books at the National Library of Spain, including titles on home-and-garden, lifestyle, and perhaps even a captivating work of entertainment.
- After unearthing the secrets of the Ezekiel Papyrus, delve into a world of intrigue and adventure by perusing titles from the 'The Story of Codex P967' exhibition catalogue, a must-read for history enthusiasts everywhere.
