The city of Jerusalem has a special place in the consciousness of the great monotheistic religions. Throughout its history it has been the site of glories and catastrophes; a place that has been witness to transition and occupation by a diversity of peoples and an object of pilgrimage through the centuries. This important work begins to provide a comprehensive outline of the amazing history of the city. It moves from the Bronze Age to the tensions of present-day Jerusalem and presents a balanced and authentic picture, that helps to correct the often distorted images of the city presented over the last fifty years.

In nine essays, scholars from seven countries seek to fill in the gaps in the historical treatment of Jerusalem and its multi-religious tradition. The scope of the book is broad, ranging from the fourth century B.C.E. to the present. The editor, a preeminent and recently deceased Islamic historian, follows his clearly stated intention of providing what he regards as the balance necessary to an understanding of various religious groups' identity within Jerusalem. The essays cover Jewish, Muslim, and, to a lesser extent, Christian heritage. The development is purely chronological, moving from early tribal settlements through the empires of Rome and Byzantium, the emergence of Islam, the conflict with Christian Crusaders, and the rise of the Ottomans to, finally, dominance by the West. A useful addition to collections that seek to serve broad interests and Middle Eastern history.
-Sanford R. Silverburg, Catawba Coll., Salisbury, NC
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

• Publisher: Olive Branch Press (November 1, 1999)
• Language: English
• Paperback: 303 pages
• Dimensions : 5.25 x 1.25 x 8 inches