Inscribed in silver and rolled into scrolls, the Ketef Hinnom amulets, ca. 6th century B.C.E., contain an early version of the Priestly Blessing (Numbers 6:24–26). More than an important textual witness, they reveal that protective ritual practices were an integral part of Judahite religion, and show how divine blessing could be worn on the body, transforming sacred words into a tangible safeguard against danger, illness, and misfortune.
Dr.
Jeremy D. Smoak
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Why was the priestly benediction placed together with the laws of nazir and the laws of sotah?
Prof.
Shawna Dolansky
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