For four millennia, the narrow strip of land on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea has enjoyed a prominence far greater than its size. Accorded various names in the course of history - e.g. Canaan, Judaea, Palestine, Israel - this land is justly regarded as one of the cradles of western civilization, a bridge between continents, empires, and cultures. Over the past century, a growing interest has been exhibited in the history of this region. Americans and Europeans alike have published a vast array of books and articles on the history and archaeology of the country considered by many as the Holy Land. The aim of "The Jerusalem Cathedra" is to make the results of this research available in a sustained, attractive, and serious manner. It seeks to encompass all aspects of the land, from its first appearance in history up to our own day. Articles are devoted to the Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Samaritan, and pagan populations who have lived here, and treats various political, cultural, economic, social, and religious questions. In short, the studies published in "The Jerusalem Cathedra" series endeavor to reflect the rich tapestry of events and people comprising the history of this land. This first volume reflects this diversity of subject matter. - from Amzon