An Illustrated Guide to the Holy Land for Tour Groups, Students, and Pilgrims

The Holy Land has immense significance around the world. As the geographic heart and soul of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, millions visit the region each year. But since the fifth century BC, enthusiastic and curious people have needed a guide as they travel to see the sites for themselves. This book not only gives the historical, archaeological descriptions wedded to the biblical text, but it is an appropriate resource for spiritual formation and cross-cultural dialog.

Packed with the latest information, this book locates and introduces the reader to popular and less-familiar sites such as Bethlehem, Shepherds’ Field, Church of the Nativity, Roman Catholic Church of St. Catherine, the Herodium, Mount of Olives, Old City of Jerusalem, Wadi Kelt, Mt. Sinai, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the site of Church of St. Mary of the Latins, Temple Mount, El-Aksa Mosque, Dome of the Rock, Hezekiah's Tunnel, the traditional place of the Last Supper, Siloam Pool, the traditional tomb of King David, the house of Caiphas the High Priest, Shrine of the Book, Herod's Antonio Fortress, Golgotha, Bethany, Tomb of Lazarus, Bethphage, Pater Noster Church, Gethsemane, and many others. Each entry explains the history and topography of the site as well as its function and significance as it is linked to the relevant biblical passages.

The book shares Scriptural references, along with anecdotes to better help visitors understand the significance behind the location. Its compact size allows visitors to carry it easily in a backpack or pocket for easier access. This book will not only inform you but help you better understand your faith. Journey to the Holy Land with this indispensable archaeological resource that links visitors and armchair travelers alike to the biblical story.

Lamontte M. Luker, Ph.D. is Professor of Hebrew Scriptures at Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary, Columbia, South Carolina. Dr. Luker also serves as Faculty Associate in the Department of Religious Studies at the University of South Carolina and Adjunct Professor of Old Testament at the Jerusalem Center for Biblical Studies.