Folia Theologica 18. (2007)
László Boda: Whether John the Baptist Could Have Been Educated at Qumran? - Johs and Bannus
60 L. BODA fragments of the rules of sect. A specific aptitude of the supervisor was that is known by the Christian theology as the charismatic capability of "distinguishing between the spirits" / in Latin: discretio spirituum / also mentioned by Paul the Apostle (cf.: 1 Kor 12,10). The supervisor had to decide what those under his supervision may have in them. Are they qualified to become “the Sons of Light"? He also made records on his observations13. In case of John, the supervisor of education of Qumran could easily decide that the person under his supervision has no sinful inclinations and offences to be punished. Instead, he had to recognize that an extraordinary spiritual person has been developing before him during the years, or even, the person in question is selected for prophet vocation. It is obvious that the supervisor submitted his experiences in this way when he reported John's character, capabilities, talents and presumably outstanding spirit to the "Sons of Zadok, the Priests". If we adhere to the assumed date of John's admission (in his age of 12-13 years), it can be easily shown that he might spend 7-10 years in the fortified "monastery", i.e. in the "fortress of Hassids". What can be considered definite, is that if John the Baptist, the son of Zechariah , studied indeed in Qumran for some time - which is of high probability -, his stay continued only until the swearing. It is obvious that he was not elected to be an ordinary member of the community. The rules of sect of Qumran emphasize the voluntary joining definitely and becoming a fully qualified member and they specify a probation of one-year14. Considering the character and straight attitude of John, it is inconceivable that he left Qumran as an oath-breaker; otherwise, he could not have remained until his age of 30 in the surroundings of Qumran. On the inspiration of the Spirit, he clearly saw that he had to follow his own way. Should it have resulted in a conflict, the competent persons of the community accurately judged John not to turn traitor to the association and not to follow the "Teacher of Lie". Anyway, the question whether a strong break or a tolerant agreement preceded his exit remains open. 13 Rules of the Community IX 18. 14 It is a similar claim at the catholic orders before the noviciate.
