A new reconstruction of the “Wisdom of the Hands” unit in 4QInstructiond (4Q418)

Abstract

This study presents the material reconstruction of the unit on חכמת ידים‎—“Wisdom of the Hands,” in copy d of the wisdom composition Instruction (4Q418), followed by a complete transcription and an English translation. The study presents the location of nine fragments of 4Q418, placed on three consecutive columns, along with new joins and new readings. The reconstruction is based on the principles of the Stegemann method for the reconstruction of fragmentary scrolls, alongside new digital tools and software, as elaborated below. The new findings allow for a better understanding of the practical wisdom of Instruction, and provide new valuable data for future reconstruction of the entire composition.