Folia Theologica 18. (2007)
László Boda: Whether John the Baptist Could Have Been Educated at Qumran? - Johs and Bannus
JOHN AND BANNUS 59 included in the tasks of the supervisor. References of this kind can be found in the rules of sect of Qumran and is also shown by the general experiences of pedagogy. On the other hand, in a religion-oriented community, the "charismatic capabilities" are of special interest.. Presumably, John the Baptist excelled soon in his ascetic attitude and in deep studying of the prophets - primarily Isaiah. Obviously, it is not the talented application of rhetoric that characterized his speeches, as opposed to the Roman education and the Hellenist schools that considered it important. Instead, even his earlier speeches might be characterized by an internal spirit and an unusual persuasive power as also shown in the later speeches. Thus, the signs indicating a "charismatic personality" might have appeared as soon as during his studies which could be easily recognized by a skilled supervisor of education. The three remained versions of the rules of sect of Qumran are: The rules of community; The rules of congregation and the Code or Document of Damascus9. In the document of the latter, the personality and role of the supervisor, really the "drill sergeant" in the community are well shown, who was charged with the task of controlling the "aptitude" of applicants and providing them assistance, together with certain education tasks. The supervisor reported to the competent person of the highest clerical level (Kochens). In fact, it is the "Sons of Zadok, the Priests" i.e. the priest who decided whether a candidate is qualified for taking an oath and becoming the initiated member of the community. The supervisor of education was elected from the layer directly below the "caste" of the highest level of hierarchy of "Sons of Zadok, the Priests", in his age between thirty and fifty10 11. He had to be familiar with the theses of association; however, he also had to get acquainted with the good points and possible sinful inclinations of the "novice". Those with physical deficiencies were excluded in advance11. Any possible sexual aberrance were followed with special attention. The supervisor of education had to know the punishment to be inflicted on each offence12. There are references in the 9 Cf. Code of Damascus XIV. 9. 10 Cf. Rules of the Community II. 11. 11 Community-Rules IX. 18. 12 Code of Damascus IX 18.
