If you go to Israel be sure to read Jerusalem by Simon Seabag Montefiore (New York, Alfred A. Knopf 2011) before you go, or bring it along with you on your trip as I did. I have to thank Joe Schuessler for suggesting this great book to me. The author gives you a jet tour of Israel's history starting with David, with a lively presentation of the differences between north and south and moving quickly through a description of each scoundrel who oppressed God's people leading up to the Romans. The story of the Maccabees is like a six-page oasis of encouraging news. By chapter 9 you are in Jerusalem with the Romans, and as we know things go downhill for God's people from there, although we can't really say that because the Messiah comes during Roman rule. Reading this book is like having a first rate history-loving tour guide at your side who presents in the fast paced style that you see here:
"Yet once-haughty Egypt was in such shameful chaos that Pharaoh Siamun raided Gezer not far from Jerusalem and, perhaps finding himself exposed far from home, offered the spoils to Solomon along with his daughter, an unthinkable honour at any other time. But the Temple of Jerusalem, planned by his father, was his masterpiece." S. S. Montefiore at 31.
Yes, I have problems with the book. The author does not understand the Jewish (and universal) messages of Jesus and of Paul. But that should not stop a Christian from reading the book. In fact, the chapters on Christian cruelty toward the Jews in Jerusalem through the centuries should be required reading for all who say that they follow Jesus.
I'm not sure how much respect Montefiore gets from scholars for his recitation of the history, but for making the story exciting I highly recommend him.
This is not all ancient history and gloom. It's a big thick book that takes you through the six-day war.
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