Jerusalem (Routledge Revivals)

By: Henry Cattan

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Synopsis: First published in 1981, Jerusalem provides an overview of the history of Jerusalem and its crucial linkage with the peace and stability in the Middle East. Jerusalem is unique amongst all the cities of the world because of its association with three great religions. It is the spiritual and religious heritage to one half of humanity and is holy for millions of Christians, Jews, and Muslims. All three religion have a vital interest in preserving in addition to their Holy places and sanctuaries, the living presence of the adherents to their faith in the Holy City. When the Zionist movement was formed at the end of the last century, the idea of a Jewish State was conceived as an answer to anti-semitism, and the movement initially considered other countries for settlement because Jerusalem was seen as a spiritual rather than a secular home to the Jewish people. Yet since the creation of the state of Israel in 1948, Zionism has claimed Jerusalem as its own. It is obvious that neither the Palestinians, not the Arabs, nor Islam and Christianity will acquiesce in Israeli domination. This book argues that the continuation of Zionism in its present form is likely to prove perilous to peace and stability in the region. This book is an important historical read for students and scholars of Middle East studies and Middle East history.