It is the most distinctive building in modern Israel. It is the Shrine of the Book, home of the Dead Sea Scrolls. The black slab also symbolizes the oppression suffered by the Jewish people over thousands of years, while the white dome represents the new hope of a brighter future as they rebuild the land to which they have returned. The dome, which replicates the shape of one of the lids of the scroll jars, is made of white tiles.
Fountains wash the tiles with water, giving the dome an added sheen in the sunlight.
As one descends, it is as if one were cleansing oneself in preparation for a holy experience. On top of the drum is a wooden handle shaped like the handles of the Torah scrolls used in synagogues even today. For nearly 30 years, nothing much happened at the Shrine of the Book. Seldom were the exhibits changed, and seldom were public events held. In 1994, however, a new curator was appointed.