Middle East Books

Dr Furnish demonstrates his expert knowledge on Mahdism, its history, and in the end the threats and challenges it could cause if bin Ladin or some other renowned Islamic terrorist were to be declared "the rightly guided one" sent to gather and recruit the Islamic faithful in preparation for the judgment by Allah at the end of time. As Furnish points out, the concept of the Mahdi is not actually contained in the Quran, but rather in a number of the Hadiths which were written separately in the early years of Islam. Furthermore, there is reference in these writings to Jesus Christ as a prophet of Islam, and how his reappearance in Syria will signal that the end of time is near.

There is debate among Islamic scholars which of these Hadiths should be regarded as authentic scriptures of the religion. However, whether authentic or not, going back to the early 12th Century AD and continuing through the last known Mahdist movement in 1979 in Saudi Arabia, these writings have been used to incite violent insurrections against governments, and bloody massacres not only of Christians and Jews, but even Muslims who did not share the views of the fanatic leaders who claimed to the Mahdi. Furnish chronicles each of these Mahdist movements, plus writes about the "Virtual Mahdi", one who has not declared himself as the leader of Muslims to the end of time, but one who may essentially be viewed as such, for example bin Ladin, and the danger this poses for the world.

When one reads the history of these violent movements, full of complete intolerance of other religions and independent branches of Islam, in which the punishment for non-conformance included death by beheading and the massacre of innocents, it seems a reasonable question to ask -- just what has changed since the 12th Century? Witness the beheadings and bombings in Iraq, the September 11th attacks, the attempts by Al Qaeda affiliates to blow up 11 American passenger jets over the Pacific in the 1990's (they came dangerously close to succeeding), attempts to kill the Pope, the oppression and terrorism brought on by the Ayatollah Khomeini and the current Iranian regime, plus the terrorist actions sponsored by Yassir Arafat extending back from suicide bombings in recent years to the kidnapping and massacre of the Israeli Olympic Team in Munich in 1972, and the hijacking and bombing of three western airliners in 1970. While it might not be Mahdism, and the weapons may be more sophisticated, the tactics, intolerance and utter disrespect for human life by this streak of Islamist fanaticism are just the same in modern times as they were during the first major Mahdist movement, by Ibn Tumart in 1130 AD.

The mainstream media and their "experts" on television talk shows often proclaim that we must understand the "root causes" of Islamic terrorism. One of their favorites they trot out ad nauseum is the Israel-Palestine conflict, never minding that the Arab world didn't give a whit about the Palestinians until 1948, and even then it was mainly used as a political tool. Oil-rich Arab governments were perfectly happy to help fund PLO terrorist operations, while expelling Palestinians from their own countries, and Yassir Arafat laundered millions in US and EU aid into his own Swiss bank accounts, while the citizens of Ramallah languished in abject poverty.

If the media, our government leaders, and concerned individuals truly want to understand the root causes of Islamic terrorism, they should read this book to gain a proper understanding of the historical facts. It's all there. The fanaticism, intolerance, and brutality that has been the trademark of Mahdist and terrorist movements for nearly a millennium is documented in detail as a result of Dr Furnish's research. There are a lot of books available on the Middle East and the terrorist threat, many of them excellent in their own right, but "Holiest Wars" presents the topic in a historical context not seen in any other book that I am familiar with. It is a must read for anyone interested in this area.

For most Muslims 'al-Mahdi' is the messianic figure who will aid the returning Isa (Jesus) to destroy the 'Dajjal' (the 'Deceiver,' the embodyment of earthly evil who shares many characteristics with the Christian Antichrist). After the Dajjal's demise the Mahdi will restore the Caliphate as a global Islamic state, bringing a long period of social and economic justice to the world's righteous before the terminal age of the Last Judgement.

Despite widespread Sunni belief and hopeful expectation for the future coming of the Mahdi, author Timothy R. Furnish feels that most Western academics have neglected the study of Mahdism, considering it a chiefly Shi'a phenomenon if not otherwise dismissing it altogether. This attitude towards so important an aspect of Islamic eschatology is what keeps Furnish's analysis limited to historical Sunni Mahdist movements, largely steering clear of those of the Shi'a and that sect's more mystical offshoots (e.g. Bahaiism, Ahmadiyya). Furnish's work here is a convincing rebuttal of much of western Islamic scholarship's conventional wisdom.

HOLIEST WARS is divided into six chapters:
1/What Is Mahdism and Where Does It Come From?
2/Mahdist Movements Throughout History
3/Counter-Mahdist Rationale and Policies
4/The Virtual Mahdi
5/Modern Muslim Anti-Mahdists
6/Conclusion: Who Will Be the Next Mahdi?
However, the book really reads as three parts: The history of the phenomenon. Its present situation and status in Sunni Islam. And the effects that such doctrines and their history have upon the near future.

Although noting that Mahdism has no Quranic grounding and furthermore is referenced in only three out of the six canonical Sunni collections of hadith (Abu Da'ud, Ibn Majah and al-Tirmidhi to be exact), Furnish provides background and overview for at least eight specific Sunni Mahdist movements, albeit acknowledging that, with the exception of the 1979 occupation of the Great Mosque in Mecca, these were often on the geographical, social and ethnic periphery of the Islamic world:
1/ Ibn Tumart and the Muwahhids (Almohads), circa 1124-1269 AD, against the Murabit (Almoravid) empire of Morocco and Spain.
2/ Western India's Sayyid Muhammad Jawnpuri of Gujarat and the Mahdavi movement of the 15th and 16th centuries.
3/ Ibn Abu Mahallah from early 17th century Morocco.
4/ 19th century India's Sayyid Ahmed Barelwi and his various wars against both the Sikhs and the British.
5/ Mid-19th century Algerian Mahdists Bou Zian and Mohammed Amzian.
6/ Sudan's Muhammad Ahmad and his late-19th century uprising against the Khedive of Egypt and his British allies. Muhammad Ahmad is inarguably the most notorious "Mahdi" in history. Defeating the British at Khartoum and executing the British governor, Charles George "Chinese" Gordon, Muhammad Ahmad and his uprising have become the focus of numerous novels and at least a half dozen big budget Hollywood movies.
7/ Mehmet, a Sufi of the Naqshbandi Order, who led a Mahdist revolt against the secularizing Kemal Ataturk's Turkish Republic in 1930.
8/ The 1979 takeover of Mecca's Great Mosque and attempted overthrow of the House of Saud by Juhayman al-Utaibi and his brother-in-law, Muhammad ibn Abd Allah al-Qahtani.

Furnish details many parallels in these various movements. In addition to their flourishing on the geographic edges of the Muslim world, these uprisings also each share a degree of Sufi influence and appeal to those peole who feel marginalized, living in societies that they see as Muslim in name only, under political systems which they feel to be decadent and servile to the West.

Furnish devotes the second part of the book to contemporary Mahdist thought and belief, providing a detailed investigation into the spate of books recently published in the Islamic world and the growing variety of websites in both Arabic and English that are devoted to this subject. He does a good job of documenting Muslim authors and sites who are anti- as well as pro- belief in Mahdist doctrine. Rather interesting are the websites highlighted here, such as the Arabic "Muntadiyat al-Mahdi" (Gathering [Chat] Rooms of the Mahdi) and "al-Muntadi" (Gathering Room), and the English site, "Mahdi Unite."

The third part of the book looks at Islamist leaders today and asks if any would or could seriously take on the role of the Mahdi. Furnish provides the qualifications as they are mentioned in the aforementioned hadith collections and doubts that the ubiquitous Usama bin Laden would ever dare to portray himself as al-Mahdi. Furthermore, among a great many other things, bin Laden's Yemeni birth and his murdering of pious Muslims contradicts Muslim expectations. Also -and most importantly- there is the problem that the Dajjal and Jesus are missing from the world scene, both are expected at the same time as the Mahdi.

HOLIEST WARS: ISLAMIC MAHDIS, THEIR JIHADS, and OSAMA BIN LADEN is a very well researched, thouroughly documented study on one of the most fascinating aspects of the Islamic faith.

Timothy Furnish has written what will come to be one of the most important books to help us all better understand Islam's relationship to the rest of the world. Furnish discusses the very little understood - yet crucial topic of Mahdism. The Mahdi is Islam's primary Messiah figure - an Islamic global warlord of sorts - the very idea of which adds a much greater measure of danger to an already global threat - radical Islam. This subject matter must be undertood by scholars and those in government as well as Christians or anyone who desires to understand Islam better. It is the first comprehensive study of this subject. It is fascinating, frightening and profound. As an author of another book that deals with some of this material but on much more popular level, I highly recommend this book. Furnish knows his stuff.

No one has a book out there quite like this one, folks. Timothy Furnish masterfully takes us through his unique perspective of Mahdism and its connection to Osama bin Laden. This book was meticulously pieced together by Furnish and his expert knowledge of muslim, christian and judaic traditions and their historical impact in uniting some and violently tearing others apart is incredible. A highly interesting piece of literature that provides a great deal of perspective we can use in modern times. Timothy Furnish's first effort as an author looks quite promising indeed. I look forward to the author's next installment with great anticipation.

This is an important work for understanding the expectations and belifes of the Jihadists. The author does an excellent job using Islamic eschatological hopes and historical events in explaining the mindset behind many of today's current events.

This is the first time I've ever reviewed an item at Amazon.com, but I think this book is so special, I had to share my comments.

The illustrations are breathtaking and the content is interesting, easy to read and digest, and through provoking. I love every page!

This book is the perfect gift for anyone interested in history, art, Israel, or politics.

A superbly illustrated history, "Homeland" is a historical overview of 3,500 years of Israel's complex and complicated history presented with the accuracy of university level scholarship and the accessibility of a graphic novel. Exceptionally easy to understand, Israel's history is laid out chronologically with almost every page featuring full color photos and painted illustrations enhancing a superimposed explanatory text. The collaborative effort of Marv Wolfman, Mario Ruiz, and William J. Rubin, "Homeland" begins with the story of Abraham, continues through biblical times down to the period of Roman rule, the diaspora, the Holocaust, the founding of the modern State of Israel, notes its accomplishments, as well as the recent wars the Israeli's have had to wage in order to preserve their nation and themselves. Of special note is how the authors, while writing from a Jewish perspective, have also drawn upon non-Jewish narratives as well, giving "Homeland" an historical context with respect to contemporary Middle East issues. A unique and visually impressive publication which is also available in paperback ($19.95), "Homeland: The Illustrated History of the State of Israel" is a welcome and enthusiastically recommended addition to personal, school, and community library collections.

When I was a young child, My grandma Esther would taut at me about my comic collection. She said "Mickey Mouse books that won't ever matter ever.". Those words still echo in my head today. After reading Homeland, I wish I could show this book to her now.She would be amazed


To call this book a graphic history novel would not be an insult. There have been other historical graphic novels that have gone before like Maus : A Survivor's Tale : My Father Bleeds History/Here My Troubles Began/Boxedand Barefoot Gen Volume One: A Cartoon Story of Hiroshima . However the quality of this work surpasses those two graphic novels. BUT after you buy this, get those as well!

However this illustrated story of the state of Israel is more a history lesson for the masses. The text written by Marvel and DC comic scribe Marv Wolfman is not bias nor boring. He may have a jewish narrative, but it is not so heavy handed as most other works out there are. Its timeline goes from the Bible to modern day Israel. Wolfman's words are well researched. It is about a country and a civilization, Wolfman's pen skills takes adult and child alike into history with ease, which is a hard feat for most writers

The dymanic art work and digital images from the amazing hands of Mario Ruiz is a tresure to keep. This is not an illustrated bible, but a painted graphic novel which unfolds into a history that breathes. This is not comic book images, this is art!

Lets be honest, Children bore easy when you speak of history of any sort...In my opinion, I would want a copy of this comic in every kid's hands over the age of twelve. I do not mean just Jewish children, I mean EVERY CHILD! I do not assume they would bore that easy with a teacher's study guide..which i would hope comes soon

And now to the adults, this volume is great for the coffee table set. Nevertheless, take it off the table and read it too. However, I think the art is so well versed, I which there were prints available for framing of some of Ruiz's craftmanship. I hope that comes soon as well!

Everyone is seeking great gift ideas for the upcoming holiday seasons...

so the for comic/graphic novel fans out there, this book will thrill them, just whisper Marv Wolfman's name....

For the history buff, this will intrigue them, it is about an ancient civilization....

For the arsty set, the artwork along will immerse them in masterful images...

For the future Bar Mitzvah boy or Bas Mitvah girl (or their families), this is a great gift to add to their religious library....

For the non Jewish religious ones on your list, the text will still engross them...

And for those who just like a coffee table book which stands out above the rest, this book will suit those

For whatever reason you choose, this book is a gift that keeps giving..So get it!

Bennet Pomerantz AUDIOWORLD

A friend let me read her copy and I just ordered my own.
The story is both enlightening and entertaining.
And the web doesn't even do justice to the graphics. They are even more amazing in print. I think fans of history (both ancient and contemporary) and those who like graphic novels will love this new book.

This wonderfully llustrated history gives a great overview of Jewish heritage and a context for today's politics. A great way to get a grounding in the subject for those of Jewish heritage who missed Hebrew School, or others wanting insight into the tragedies and traditions informing modern Judaism (and Zionism). Would be great for teens, but also for adults looking for the big picture.

Although this is an overview book, there is so much here to recommend it to the artist. I do C&I for my historical group (SCA) and this is such a wonderful source!

This is one of the best books on illuminated manuscripts currently available. The book is hardcover, full color throughout, and many nice reproductions. There is a nice variety in the work shown and good commentary. If you get this at the discounted price, this is a hard book to beat in quantity and quality. Along with A History of Illuminated Manuscripts this is a must-have book.

What can I say? I have been researching this specific field now for the last five years, and rarely find such a magnificent reproduction as this! Excellent job on the colour balance, and many miniatures I have not seen in any other books. Well done.

Best "bang for the buck" period illumination book on the market. Every page is crammed with beautiful, clear color photos of ten centuries of period illumination styles. There are 'leaves' and 'hours' in there that I have never seen before. Best of all (and unlike other books I could name) it's affordable and within the reach of the true 'starving artist' (and it's about time).

What a marvellous collection of Illustrated Manuscripts. A couple of other reviewers stated that this was one of the best books of this kind ever published.I certainly have no dispute with them as it is the best I've seen.
Going through this book gives one the feeling of viewing the greatest illustrated books that were the domain of the rich and powerful from the 7th. Century to the 17th.Century. Unless you were of that class,you had little chance of ever seeing,touching and certainly no chance whatsoever of owning one of these books.
Until the Gutenberg press of the 1450's there were no printed books,which meant that any book had to be drawn and lettered printed by hand,taking years of painstaking and highly talented work.Hence,they were extremely expensive and available to the very few.Even someone who owned or had access to books like these,even they would be very lucky if they saw more than a few in their lifetime.In this book we get to see hundreds of the manuscripts from literally hundreds of these rare masterpieces.They come from all over Europe and from a span of roughly a thousand years.
It'as amazing to think that in the 14th.Century,it was possible to build massive Cathedrals;but a book like this for the masses was not even imaginable.

Prof. Troen confronts questions that stand at the heart of Israel's self-understanding. His answers will surely arouse controversy, but the questions he poses must be faced.

Ilan Troen's Imagining Zion may well be the very most important book to appear in many years on patterns of Jewish settlement in Palestine/Israel. At a time when much discussion is devoted to Jewish settlement and, related to that, the very legitimacy of the Zionist enterprise in the Land of Israel, Troen's balanced and highly informative book is a must read. Thoroughly researched, lucidly written, and informed by an intimate familiarity with comparative materials (the author was an urban historian of the United States before switching to the history of the Yishuv), this book serves as a much needed corrective to the spate of essays that have recently appeared lining the modern state of Israel in most superficial ways to so-called settler states such as French Algeria and South Africa. In telling the compelling story of Zionist achievement, the author never loses sight of how the Jewish community in the Land of Israel envisioned the master plan of Zionist development and also took into consideration its impact on the indigenous Arab population. This highly nuanced and extremely informative book should attract audiences drawn from a wide range of academic disciplines. It is not only very timely, it has the virtue of being written in very accessible prose.

This is the only comprehensive history of Zionist and Israeli settlement available in English. Troen's focus on Zionism's developmental ethos and its realization yields an important contribution to a field dominated by high politics and military affairs.

"Among all the books on the subject of Zionist economic/security ideology, this is one of the finest I have ever read. Its research is vast, its approach is fresh and original, its conclusions are sound."--Howard M. Sachar, author of A History of Israel

"Prof. Troen confronts questions that stand at the heart of Israel's self-understanding. His answers will surely arouse controversy, but the questions he poses must be faced."--David Engel, New York University

"This is the only comprehensive history of Zionist and Israeli settlement available in English. Troen's focus on Zionism's developmental ethos and its realization yields an important contribution to a field dominated by high politics and military affairs."--Derek J. Penslar, Zacks Professor of History; Director, Jewish Studies Program, University of Toronto

"This is a superb book. A sweeping study of the Zionist settlement of Palestine from the late nineteenth century to our own time, it analyzes the ideological, pragmatic, and ultimately strategic concerns that shaped the nature of Jewish communities in the State of Israel as well as the pre-state period. It succeeds in integrating the story of the building of Israel--from the kibbutz to Tel Aviv to development towns--within the context of urban and rural development in the modern western world."--Paula Hyman, Yale University

"Ilan Troen's Imagining Zion may well be the very most important book to appear in many years on patterns of Jewish settlement in Palestine/Israel. At a time when much discussion is devoted to Jewish settlement and, related to that, the very legitimacy of the Zionist enterprise in the Land of Israel, Troen's balanced and highly informative book is a must read. Thoroughly researched, lucidly written, and informed by an intimate familiarity with comparative materials (the author was an urban historian of the United States before switching to the history of the Yishuv), this book serves as a much needed corrective to the spate of essays that have recently appeared lining the modern state of Israel in most superficial ways to so-called settler states such as French Algeria and South Africa. In telling the compelling story of Zionist achievement, the author never loses sight of how the Jewish community in the Land of Israel envisioned the master plan of Zionist development and also took into consideration its impact on the indigenous Arab population. This highly nuanced and extremely informative book should attract audiences drawn from a wide range of academic disciplines. It is not only very timely, it has the virtue of being written in very accessible prose."--Jacob Lassner, Northwestern University (author of The Middle East Remembered: Forged Identities, Competing Narratives, Contested Spaces)

This is a superb book. A sweeping study of the Zionist settlement of Palestine from the late nineteenth century to our own time, it analyzes the ideological, pragmatic, and ultimately strategic concerns that shaped the nature of Jewish communities in the State of Israel as well as the pre-state period. It succeeds in integrating the story of the building of Israel--from the kibbutz to Tel Aviv to development towns--within the context of urban and rural development in the modern western world.

Michael Dolan has lived as a professional journalist in the Middle East for over two of the five decades he covers in "Israel at the Crossroads."

Assignments have continued to be awarded to him from leading media outlets throughout the world.

His balanced firsthand reporting of the events surrounding the struggles for the land of Israel begins with a detailed examination of Arab as well as Jewish history. He follows up with a delineation of the religious aspects of the ongoing conflict from both perspectives of Islam and Judaism.

Mr. Dolan's friendships with individuals from both camps is evident in his delicate presentation of the people centered, according to Scripture, as 'the apple of God's eye.' {Deuteronomy 32:10; Zechariah 2:8}

TL Farley,
author,

When Now Becomes Too Late
{ Prophecy : The Rapture In Brief : Inside The Twinkle ! }

Distant Reaches
{ True Life Adventure In Ireland, Boston and On The North Atlantic }

I found this book very interesting and quite informative. It gave a very objective and yet consise perspective on the modern developments in Israel and its continuing struggle with the Palestinian drive for Independence. I thought that the information on religious differences was also of much interest.

The Middle East Crisis has been a major TV news topic for at least the last 30 years. Nevertheless, most Americans have no clue what is going on over there. We continue to try to understand the situation based on Western logic while not understanding that the involved parties have a perspective that does not fit Western logic, bargaining, or compromise. This book gives a terrific overview of the topic.

I found this book very interesting and quite informative. It gave a very objective and yet consise perspective on the modern developments in Israel and its continuing struggle with the Palestinian drive for Independence. I thought that the information on religious differences was also of much interest.

This is an excellent account of the history of the Jewish state and it's conflicts with the Arab world, including the Palestinian issue.

The book has a Biblical foundation and provides an objective analysis of the present situation.

This book is well written and easy to understand. It provides an insight from both sides of the conflict and much of the account is based on the personal experience of one who has experienced much of the conflict first hand & who lives in Jerusalem. Someone who has also reported on the ongoing conflict for a major media network.

I share the author's interest and love for the Holy Land and a large percentage of his opinions. I have listened to David Dolan speak on the subject and he possesses a wealth of information, knowledge and experience.

Highly recommended.

Mr Sher writes a well balanced book in a very clear writing style which enables everyone to understand the complex process of negotiations.
Although with sadness I knew the outcome, I still felt hopeful throughout that the team would be able to secure a peace for both peoples.
This book is well balanced, Mr Sher giving fair criticism where due regardless of who it is and despite the disappointing outcome, he does not malign anyone involved.
I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to know more of the situation faced by all who live in the Land.

Whilst there have been a number of books on this topic such as Enderlin's Shattered Dreams, Swisher's The Truth About Camp David and Dennis's Ross's verbose recollections in The Missing Peace, Gilead Sher's book is by far the best.

Filled with details of every meeting, discussion between Israelis, Palestinians and Americans, it fills in the missing details as to the motives and positions of the principal players in the negotiations. It reveals that the reason for the breakdown in the negotiations was complex and multi-causal, not simply a case of "exposing Arafat's face" as has so damagingly been popularised in Israeli and Jewish circles.

As Israel approaches a new round of final status negotiations after a break over six years, the Israeli government should have a good read of Sher's book for instruction. The time for wishful thinking regarding a final agreement is over - an agreement in the spirit of the Clinton parameters remains the best resolution of the final status issues, which as Sher sets out the Israeli government accepted, subject to minor clarifications over six years ago.

Gilead Sher spoke yesterday at the Middle East Institute in DC on the newly-translated English edition of his negotiating memoir, Within Reach. It was a total hit, and anyone who wants the cliff notes should check it out on CSPAN.

I was so pleased to discover that Mr. Sher is not only a great orator and public speaker, but a gifted writer as well. His book explains the negotiating process that Sher directed on behalf of the State of Israel. It was, no doubt, a painful personal ordeal, and in rich detail Sher tells us his point of view--from the Camp David 2000 summit to the dozens of covert meetings all across the world with his Palestinian counterparts.

The Arab-Israeli junkie will not be able to set this book down. It is a must read.

The title of Gilead Sher's excellent book: "Within Reach" The Israeli-Palestinian Peace Negotiations, 1999-2001 - - is deceiving. It suggests a dry, ponderous policy analysis that would only be of interest to experts or students of the Middle East conflict. But what Sher really does is provide a fascinating personal journey through an erratic minefield of diplomacy and policy, personalities and cultures. "Within Reach" is extremely well written, and the anecdotes and insights that are peppered throughout provide a deeply personal look at a complex process. It is a riveting story of our times.

Gilead is my brother, so naturally, I am not objective, then again, knowing him personally, I can attest to his unyielding honesty, extraordinary analytical brightness and deep commitment to a fair solution to the Palestinian Israeli conflict.

Refelecting these qualities, "Within Reach," a best seller in Israel, and published illegally in the Arab Press, provides a fascinating insight into the overt and covert negotiations, detailing the Israeli and Palestinian positions on the core issues of the conflict -- Palestinian Refugees Right of Return, Jerusalem, Settlements, Security and Territories, Water. It recounts the ups and downs of the negotiations, the "players" personalities, the decision making process and the proposed solutions, which will no doubt serve as the blueprint for any future negotiations.

I highly recommend it for anyone interested in Israel, in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and most importantly, in the parameters of a possible agreement for the End of Conflict.

Those readers looking for both a thorough history of Jerusalem will also get an informative review of the political and religious aspects of the Near East. Many endnotes and a very useful bibliography.

My God indeed!
What a time line story!!! It is without equal, and tells us just where this present day middle east crises is going.
Pulling out the stops here, i want to say this book should be required reading for all people from all cultures.
I have just finished my third reading and keep it next to my reading chair like a Bible.
Only problem; none.

Eric Cline has written a vast range of books and articles for both specialized publications and general audiences. His latest book, "Jerusalem Besieged", is written in the same vein as his previous book "Battles of Armageddon" and yet in many ways this new book must have been difficult to write. While Megiddo is in ruins, Jerusalem is still the religious center of three major world faiths and is held sacred by hundreds of millions of people throughout the world. It is almost impossible to write a book on Jerusalem without offending someone, but Cline has managed to write one of the most tactful books possible. Nowhere does he slide into polemic, nor has he made any religious claims in lieu of evidence. He has tried his best to write an even-handed account of Jerusalem's military past. He has spent a great deal of time in that city and his love of the subject comes through loud and clear. He writes as an archaeologist not as a political commentator, and yet there is much journalistic material he has read and incorporated into the text. Cline writes in beautifully lucid prose. General readers will find the material accessible and yet Cline's research is available in the footnotes and the extensive bibliography. Readers are given a framework within which to think about the repercussions of several millenia of strife in Jerusalem. Cline documents 118 separate conflicts during which Jerusalem has been destroyed completely twice, besieged 23 times and attacked an additional 52 times. It has been captured and re-captured 44 times and this does not even include the 20 revolts and innumerable riots. Cline manages to cover them in less than 500 pages while covering each incident, and giving judicious opinions in places where controversy occurs. This is a must purchase for military historians and general readers alike.

This was a very informative book, well researched and most importantly it was easy to read without falling asleep. Highly recommended.

This is a book that really needed to be written.

When I lived briefly in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, I was told that in ancient times, Tabuk had been known as "the most evil place in the world." Frankly at the time, I doubted that any geographical locality could have a karma of its own. After reading Eric H. Cline's book, Jerusalem Besieged, I think I'm going to have to reconsider the issue.

What I found most intriguing about the author's discussion was his concept of the origin of the site's importance. Most archaeologists tend to point to the advantage of a location as the inspiration for settlement and development in the area. Often things like access to a sheltered harbor, a fishing resource, mineral wealth such as flint, obsidian, ceramic clay, iron, gold or silver, or water availability and so on are reasons that a city grows and flourishes through time. As one realtor has said, "there are three things to remember in selecting real estate: location, location, location."

Jerusalem however seems to defy that premise. According to the author, it is neither exceptional for its geologic nor for its geographic gifts. The agricultural value of the surrounding land is marginal, water supply is iffy, there are no large stands of timber to be harvested and few if any valuable mineral riches to be mined. Geographically it seems to have been an isolated site, in the back of beyond. It lies well inland of the coast and is not the hub of intersecting trade routes. In fact, although it is mentioned in the Egyptian Armarna texts, it seems to have held little political value until David took it forcibly from the Jebusites, its previous owners, and made it the center of his new monarchy. It would appear that even he chose the site primarily because it had not been a power base for any of his own people. Its foreign citizenry owed no one but him any loyalty, so it would not entangle him in the petty internal feuds that seemed to be the bane of the Israelite political world. Yet over the past 3000 years, more blood has been shed over the city of Jerusalem than practically any other site on earth.

So what makes this rock in the middle of nowhere such a magnet for passion and violence? Why does the City of Peace seem to drive sensible people crazy? According to Professor Cline it would appear to be the city's emotional wealth. So many have made Jerusalem the center of spiritual and emotional importance that the site is invested with staggering human significance. That investment in Jerusalem over the past 3000 years almost ensures continuous strife over its possession. No one seems immune to the insanity either. People from as distant as the Far East have taken a part in the madness. Everyone from the Romans to the British and the US have entered the melee. Embarrassingly-for a nominal Christian at least-the worst of the violence seems to have been perpetrated by the Crusaders.

Almost all of the illustrations of the city in the book are from its outside and from a fair distance. I think the artist had a good idea. Personally by the end of the book I felt that everyone should be forbidden to live on the site for their own good; it's far too dangerous. It should be walled off for the health of the world, and the faithful and the curious can look at it through the fence from a safe distance. Having read the author's book The Battles of Armageddon, I would have to say that if the end of days does occur, it won't be at Megiddo; it'll be at Jerusalem!

As I said above, this is a book that really needed to be written. It's not that there is anything particularly new in it; it's just that it's all particularly focused. I think that it should be required reading for all politicians, both regional and national, and certainly for any of those involved in attempts to bring about peace in the area. For the general reader it will make the issues in the Middle East far clearer and reveal why a lasting peace in the area is unlikely to occur any time soon. It will also make the Arab countries' horror over the US activities in the region more understandable. Certainly the author's final statement, quoting O'Neill, is vividly evocative of the entire message of the book, "For now, however, in Jerusalem, perhaps more than anywhere else in the world, `There is no present or future-only the past, happening over and over again...(p. 310).'"

I usually shy away from POD or self-published books, but this novel shone with refreshing, gritty honesty and a thoughtful treatment of real life issues. Though the story line of a minister's wife (herione Katie Means) becoming a burglar to save a school for children with autism screams unbelievable, I couldn't argue with the author's careful characterization of the protagonist. Cher Smith's easy writing style and snappy dialogue had me sailing through the book in no time.

For those who normally read "Christian" or biblical worldview fiction, you may find some content offensive. Or, this may just be the kick in the pants you need. For those who normally read general or ABA fiction, welcome to a well-written yet convicting story about people just like you and me, trying to find our places in the world.

Bravo.

The book is outstanding! It's a fast read with so much thought, you'll want to read it twice. It talks of life, love, sacrifice, sex, nudity, God, the Church, lying, stealing, and learning to be honest with yourself (& with God). I appreciate how it keeps your interest the entire book. This book would be a great movie.

A quick and entertaining read. Katie Means is the perfect character to fall in love with. The reader will feel her pain, anxiety, and pleasure at each and every moment.

The author has an amazing knack for telling a story and utilizing characterization.

Especially recommended for all those stuffy, staunch, over-conservative Christians who think if you follow God perfectly, nothing bad will ever happen to you. Think again!! Bad things happen to everyone, and this book shows how one woman overcomes that in her own way and mends her relationship with God.

Justified Means is the story of a woman dealing with a disabled child. It's also the story of a pastor's wife who steals. Those contradictories make for a very enjoyable read. Her honesty about being angry at God is refreshing, especially for those who are more used to black-and-white characterizations of churchgoers.

It's about time a writer used her wit, intelligence, and craft to create a delightful and meaningful novel. "Justified Means" is one of those novels that has you crying one minute and then laughing the next. I highly recommend this for anyone who's tired of the trite, silly chick-lit that's out there. I promise you will not be disappointed. (Also, if you are lucky enough to find a copy, check out Cher Smith's other novel, "The Falcon and the Serpant." Another great read!)

A masterpiece of scholarship with the most surprising revelations on some of the best known sections of the Bible. This book makes it clear that for every text that makes it into print there are hundreds that circulate in oral culture and are maintained from mouth to ear. The richness and variety of the texts presented is staggering

Translated from the original German by the founder of Hadassah, this work encompasses Jewish legends and traditions from a comprehensive array of Jewish and non-Jewish sources, weaving together into a story-form the various myths and legends; some espoused by mainstream and some by non-mainstream Jewry. Great bibliographical references for each citation utilizing both traditional and non-traditional sources.

For anyone out there interested about Ester and her role (Explained in greater detail) should get this book.

I would suggest this series to anybody interested in theology, hands down.

For any student of theology, this is a fascinating collection. Contains references to Lilith (Adam's first wife) and a plethora of angel names - over 200. I highly recommend this exceptional collection for all readers.

This book is absolutely fascinating in both scope, depth, and its incredible political insights. Every Jew should read this book.

Chaim Herzog, one of Israel's greatest statesmen, served as President of Israel from 1983 to 1993, after a distinguished career in both the British Army during World War II, the Israeli Army during the War of Independence, a key mastermind behind Israel's intelligence services and Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations, between 1975 and 1978.
Chaim's father Rabbi Rabbi Yitzhak HaLevi Herzog, was Chief Rabbi of Ireland from 1919 to 1937 (and later, of Palestine and Israel).
When Chaim was three years old he witnessed a man on a horse and cart being shot dead outside his house during the Irish Civil War. During his studies for a legal degree at London University College in the 1930s Herzog describes the hostility faced by both the Communists with their irrational hostility to Zionists who they labelled "exploiters", "aggressors", "Fascists" and "colonialists", and the hostility by the Fascists who supported Hitler and Nazi Germany.
Herzog also describes the pro-Arab policies and attitudes of the British colonial administration of Palestine, who clinging to Lawrence of Arabia fantasies, sided with the Arabs and prevented Jews entering Palestine, even during the Holocaust.
Herzog writes of his experiences as a soldier in the British army fighting the Nazis during World War II.
participated in the liberation of several concentration camps as well as identifying a captured German soldier as Heinrich Himmler.
After the war Herzog joined the struggle for Jewish Statehood in the Land of Israel, against the Arabs and their British colonial allies.
Herzog recalls how the law forbade both Arabs and Jews from carrying arms, but the British regularly arrested Jews for carrying arms and seldom apprehended or disarmed armed Arabs.
It is ironic to read of the co-operative co-existance between Iran under the enlightened Shah Reza Pahlavi, when we see that today Israel's most implacable and genocidal enemy is the Iranian regime of Khamenei and Ahamdinejad.
He also deals with allegations of racism against Israel reflecting "It's rather sad that there is distrust between American Blacks and Jews today and that many prominent Blacks seem anti-Semitic. Israeli society is definitely not racist: We have a large black Ethiopian population, and there is much intermarriage".
Herzog explains the Soviet role of encouraging Arab aggression during the Six Day War, and a United Nations that did nothing to stop Arab plans to annihilate Israel and her people but stepped in to stop Israel from completing her victory over the Arab aggressors once Israel was clearly winning.
He also outlines the role of the Soviet Union in instigating and initiating Syrian and Egyptian aggression against Israel before the Six Day War.

He describes the religious respect that Israel showed towards Moslem and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, with Moshe Dayan even handing over control of the Al Aqsa Mosque built on the Temple Mount (Judaism's holiest site) to the Moslem religious authorities, the Waqf.
This in contrast to Arab desecration and destruction of Jewish holy sites after the Jordanians captured the old city of Jerusalem during the War of Independence.
But Herzog's finest hour was no doubt his heroic stand taken as Ambassador to the United Nations during the shameful proceedings the led to the totalitarian dominated United Nations equating Zionism with racism.
Herzog told truth to power and did Israel and the Jewish people proud when he told the UN when the committee met to vote on the evil resolution:
"We shall survive this shameful exhibition,...and I thank the delegates who have expressed themselves against this pernicious resolution. We shall not forget those who voted to attack our religion and our faith. We shall never forget."
If only Israel had such diplomatic representatives who could stand up for their nation today.
At the General Assembly Herzog pointed out that : "Zionism is the name of the national movement of the Jewish people and is the modern expression of ancient Jewish heritage...Zionism is to the Jewish people what the liberation movements of Africa and Asia have been to their own people. Zionism is one of the most dynamic and and vibrant national movements in human history. Historically it is based on a unique and unbroken connection, extending some four thousand years, between the People of the Book and the Land of the Bible...We put our trust in Providence, in our faith and beliefs, in our time hallowed tradition, in our striving for social advance and human values, and in our people wherever they may be. For us, the Jewish people, this resolution based on hatred, falsehood and arrogance is devoid of any moral or legal value".
He cover his role in preserving Israeli national unity and representing Israel to the world, as President of Israel from 1983 to 1993.

Sadly his optimism stated towards the end of the book about how the "peace process" with the PLO and Arafat would succeed because the Arabs know they are economically dependant onm Israel and that terrorist activity would militate against their political aspirations would prove to be wrong.
He did not reckon on the Amalek-like hatred that the Palestinian terrorist groups and their supporters have for Israel, a hatred that means they would rather destroy themselves and their own society than leave in peace.
It is tragic that Herzog did not live to see how wrong this false optimism was, he died in 1997, three years before Arafat launched the murderous intifada against the Israeli people, as a response to Barak's offers to accommodate their demands and aspirations.
The rise of Hamas and Islamic Jihad and their determination to murder Jews has again proved the futility of talking to terrorists or trying to accommodate those who want Israel destroyed.
I do however have hope that if Israel stands firm and demonstrates her will to survive and not be victimised, an accommodation can be reached with moderate Arab states like Egypt and Jordan, which will include the future and welfare of those Palestinian Arabs who do want peace and coexistence.

A wonderful autobiography of Israeli statesman, diplomat, spymaster and politician, Chaim Herzog. Chaim Herzog was among a very fascinating family that included the Chief Rabbi of Israel in the 40s. Chaim himself served in numerous posts, finally becoming President of Israel in the 80s. This narrative covers every aspect of Israeli history from its high points to its low ones. Chaim has been central to every major event in Israeli history, from the siege of Jerusalem in 1948 to the Ethiopian airlift. His smart, to the point, autobiography pulls no punches in its incisive critique of Israeli society today and the mirror of the past. For instance he takes to task such luminaries as Golda and Dayan, while criticizing the rise of `fundamentalism' in Israeli society, painting a not so pretty picture of today's Yeshiva attitude towards serving in the IDF. He explains how the Rabbinate was actually more liberal in the 1940s then it is today. This is a wonderful tour de force on Israeli history, from someone who was central to Israeli policy for year. Not an apologists account, Chaim equally praises Ariel Sharon for his Unit 101 strategies as well as Peres for his inventive ideas. Probably no one in modern Israeli society could be so unbiased as to see the vital gifts that both Sharon and Peres have given to Israel. A must read for anyone interested in Israel or the modern political situation in the middle east.

I met Chaim Herzog in 1996, after the publication of his book and just before his death. I knew that he was one of Israel's formost warriors/statesmen, but of his life in between, well, I realized that I knew nothing indeed about him until I began to read his memoir.

The title "Living History" is perfect in all its sense. It's a fascinating account of his and modern Israel's story.

Chaim Herzog will always be remembered in my heart as the man who defended Israel's rights on and against the world's stage; the United Nations. I would like to transcribe for you a direct quote from his speech on October 17, 1975, when the UN was about to formally vote on institutionalizing the notion of "Zionism is racism":

__________

"We have listened to the most unbelievable nonsense on the issue of Zionism and from whom? From countries who are the archetypes of racism.

...How dare you talk of racism to us, we who suffered more than any other nation in the world from racist theories and practices, a nation which has suffered the most terrifying holocaust in the history of mankind.

...This is a sad day for the United Nations. The Jewish people will not forget this scene nor this vote.

We are a small people with a proud history. We have lived through much in our history.

We shall survive this shameful exhibition, . . . and I thank the delegations who have expressed themselves against this pernicious resolution. We shall not forget those who voted to attack our religion and our faith. We shall never forget."

__________

Of course, his entire memoir is not written out as angry as he was when his role was as Israel's ambassador to the UN, but his writings are just as passionate.

For anyone interested in the history of the modern state of Israel, this is a must read. He was there at just about every important turn and twist; (British intelligence officer in) World War II, Israel's War of Independence, at David Ben-Gurion's side, the Six-Day War and the Yom Kippur War, the "Zionism is Racism" debate, and as the president of Israel for ten years -- through a national unity government and the Intifada.

Simply an amazing life.