Putting fragments in context: An analysis of 4Q468 fragment B

This note presents a linguistic and paleographic analysis of the Qumranic fragment 4Q468a d Frag. b [olim 4QUnid Frg. D]. Although this is a very fragmentary text, an attempt is made to contextualize it within the Qumranic literature by highlighting connections with the well-known Qumranic themes of light and the importance of priesthood. This fragment aligns with the overall theme of celebrating and elevating the importance of the priesthood within the community. It is possible that the fragment also alludes to the circumstances in Jerusalem that ultimately brought about the downfall of the Zadokite priesthood.