Large Ritual Bath

View of one of the large Ritual Baths (Miqveh) that were found at Qumran.

In the upper left, note the two sets of stairs that lead to the broad staircase.  I assume one was used when entering in a state of impurity and then one would descend into the water.  After purification, the person would ascend and exit the other staircase in a state of purity.