The Oxford History of the Holy Land

The Oxford History of the Holy Land covers the 3,000 years of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam's rise, combining sacred texts with modern scholarship. It explores the origins of the people, the development of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and the impact of European powers on the region. The authors aim to provide a better understanding of the history of the Holy Land and its significance in world cultural and intellectual history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 27 April 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The Oxford History of the Holy Land spans a remarkable 3,000 years, delving into the rise of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. It weaves together the familiar narratives of sacred texts with the insights of modern scholarship, providing a comprehensive account of this pivotal period. The book begins by tracing the origins of the people who would become the Israelites mentioned in the Bible, charting their journey through the millennia until the fall of the Ottoman Empire at the end of World War I. While certain aspects of the story may be familiar to readers, particularly those derived from the Bible, the book also highlights how modern research, encompassing archaeology and other ancient sources, has reshaped our understanding of the historical events. By gaining a deeper comprehension, we are able to appreciate the significant chapters in the Holy Land's story, such as the development of Judaism from the earlier sovereign states of Israel and Judah, as well as the historical circumstances that gave rise to Christianity. Furthermore, the later parts of the narrative hold immense importance not only for the history of Islam and its interactions with Judaism and Christianity but also for the growth of pilgrimage and religious tourism, as well as the enduring concepts of sacred space and holy books. As European powers began to exert their influence in the region from the time of Napoleon, their cultural and political interest in the Holy Land grew, culminating in the British and French conquests that shaped the modern states of the Middle East. Recognizing the significance of the sacred books of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam to those with profound religious authority, the authors of this book approach their subject with empathy and sensitivity. They aim to demonstrate how historical information from various sources, as well as scholarly study of the texts themselves, can enrich our understanding of the past. By exploring the intersection of religion, history, and scholarship, The Oxford History of the Holy Land offers a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in comprehending the complex tapestry of this remarkable region.

Weight: 496g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192886866