Describes first-century Jewish and Christian beliefs about the land of Israel and examines present-day tensions, helping readers develop a Christian theology of the land.

The Oxford Illustrated History of the Holy Land covers the 3,000 years which saw the rise of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam--and relates the familiar stories of the sacred texts with the fruits of modern scholarship. Beginning with the origins of the people who became the Israel of the Bible, it follows the course of the ensuing millennia down to the time when the Ottoman Empire succumbed to British and French rule at the end of the First World War. Parts of the story, especially as known from the Bible, will be widely familiar. Less familiar are the ways in which modern research, both from archaeology and from other ancient sources, sometimes modify this story historically. Better understanding, however, enables us to appreciate crucial chapters in the story of the Holy Land, such as how and why Judaism developed in the way that it did from the earlier sovereign states of Israel and Judah and the historical circumstances in which Christianity emerged from its Jewish cradle. Later parts of the story are vital not only for the history of Islam and its relationships with the two older religions, but also for the development of pilgrimage and religious tourism, as well as the notions of sacred space and of holy books with which we are still familiar today. Sensitive to the concerns of those for whom the sacred books of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam are of paramount religious authority, the authors all try sympathetically to show how historical information from other sources, as well as scholarly study of the texts themselves, enriches our understanding of the history of the region and its prominent position in the world's cultural and intellectual history.

Offers an integrated theological vision of the Old and New Testaments that highlights the pattern of God's work through scripture.

Biblical scholar and seasoned pilgrimage guide Stephen J. Binz offers an up-to-date handbook for experiencing the sites of the Holy Land as a disciple of Jesus. Whether contemplating future travel, on the road of pilgrimage, savoring memories of a past trip, or journeying in mind and heart from an armchair, readers will explore the nature of pilgrimage and encounter the places of the Holy Land from a biblical, historical, meditative, and prayerful perspective. This guide will enable Christians to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, confident that their pilgrimage will be both an educational journey and a transforming spiritual experience. Full-color illustrations throughout!

What better way is there to become configured to Christ than by following in His footsteps? A pilgrimage to the Holy Land allows one to follow, quite literally, in Our Lord’s footsteps, to discover His homeland and the cultural, linguistic, historical, and topographical landscapes that reveal so much about Jesus Christ. Come and See: A Catholic Guide to the Holy Land accompanies pilgrims through holy sites in Galilee, the Dead Sea, and Jerusalem. Contemplate the mysteries of Our Lord’s earthly life and ministry with appropriate biblical texts and the testimonies of both Roman historians and early Christian witnesses and writers. This uniquely Catholic travel guide features: Vibrant, full-color pictures Almost every page features photographs of the holy sites, as well as sacred art and even diagrams for historical context. Scripture on Site See the place the Lord’s Ascension actually occurred while reading about it in the Book of Acts. Experience the Jordan River while contemplating Christ’s baptism in that very place. Bring both the sites and the Scriptures to life by reading the Scripture on Site suggestions. Reflection sections with specific reflections for seminarians Not only is this guide informative, it is devotional. The reflection sections are perfect journaling prompts, group discussion questions, or simply guides for quiet reflection. Seminarians particularly will benefit from questions focused on their formation and future priestly ministry. Special durable cover and compact travel size This is one guide that can stand up to the rigors of travel! The cover is tear-resistant and the size is perfect for taking along on day trips to holy sites. Fr. Charles Samson’s Come and See will be a welcome companion for all who journey to the Holy Land to better know and love Christ.

Visit the Holy Land, wherever you might be--with this beautifully illustrated guide to the history, culture, geography, and key sites of Bible places. Now available in a handy, pocket-size edition, this "readable reference" transports you to the land where Abraham, David, and Jesus lived, explaining the what, when, where, and why of their stories--and many, many more. The Holy Land identifies nearly twelve dozen key locales, providing details on their history, setting, and importance. Fully illustrated in color, with helpful maps and intriguing sidebars, The Holy Land is great prep for those visiting the Middle East--and an equally great read for "armchair travelers" who want to better understand the Bible story.