Ancient Ten Commandments Fragment of 2,000-Year-Old Manuscript to Go on Display at Reagan Library

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, California, is giving visitors a rare chance to delve into the roots of ancient Judaism and Christianity. Their newest exhibit, "Dead Sea Scrolls: The Exhibition," features eight ancient Jewish manuscripts alongside 200 archaeological artifacts, some dating back over 2,000 years. Yes, we're talking pre-Roman Empire here—250 BCE to 68 CE, to be precise.

The exhibit's crowning jewel? The Ten Commandments Scroll, making its California debut starting April 14 for just two weeks. This historical document hasn't been seen in the U.S. since 2013 and offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to come face-to-face with one of the world's most pivotal religious texts. If there's ever a "bucket list" item for history buffs and theology enthusiasts, this is it.

David Trulio, president and CEO of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute, emphasized the connection between President Reagan’s Christian faith and his engagement with Jewish and Christian communities during his presidency. He called the scrolls "remarkable biblical treasures" that deepen our understanding of scripture and the development of major monotheistic faiths. Melissa Giller, chief marketing officer at the foundation, highlighted Reagan’s profound belief in the Bible as the ultimate guide for solving humanity’s woes. Well, he wasn’t wrong; those stone tablets have been influencing moral codes for centuries.

The Ten Commandments Scroll, officially known as 4Q41, was discovered in 1952 in Qumran Cave 4. It contains passages from Deuteronomy, including the iconic verse, "Therefore, thou shalt keep the commandments of the Lord thy God, to walk in his ways, and to fear him," as per the King James Version. The scroll is believed to be the oldest surviving copy of the Ten Commandments—a claim that could make any history textbook blush.

The museum is pulling out all the stops for this exhibit, offering extended hours during the scroll’s two-week showcase and limiting tickets to 1,600 per day. Visitors are encouraged to pre-purchase their tickets, as demand is expected to be high. The exhibit, running through September 2, also takes attendees on a journey through the history, culture, and religious practices of ancient Judaism, while highlighting the early foundations of Christianity.

According to the library, the Ten Commandments, as described in Exodus and Deuteronomy, were given to Moses by God on Mount Sinai, inscribed on stone tablets. These commandments remain central to Abrahamic religions and continue to shape moral and legal traditions worldwide. If you're looking for context on how ancient spirituality still resonates today, this exhibit is your answer.

The Reagan Library’s sprawling 125,000-square-foot complex is home to both permanent and temporary galleries, but this particular exhibit is special. The library’s website describes it as "a journey through human spirituality, resilience and the enduring quest for meaning." From the shores of the Dead Sea to modern science frontiers, the Dead Sea Scrolls story is far from finished. And luckily, for two weeks in April, California gets to be part of that story.