Chapter 14: Jihad

So Armstrong is finally starting to use hitherto less, it’s a pet peeve of mine. In present-day America most Americans most likely view the word jihad as negative.  However, this is untrue from what we learned in Armstrong’s chapter.  It actually means struggle.  I believe all people have a struggle, but just do not have a name for it.  Islam was now the major religion of Al-Quds, however they struggled to keep it their own.  From the Ottomans, to the Christians, to the Jews.  With every chapter I learn how complicated this situation is.  There is no doubt in my mind that all three groups of people have a legitimate claim to the land.  It is in fact The Disputed Land, because there is no clear cut front runner.  I believe each group has equal reasons for why they should “rule” Jerusalem.

Chapter 15: Ottoman City

I would like to learn more about The Franciscans, their history and their story.  I enjoyed Armstrong’s explanation of the creation of the Sabbath meal for Jews on pages 337-338.  I did not previously now the history of this tradition.  Also, Armstrong continues to reveal details about Islam, it is fascinating to me.  Small differences in beliefs two thousand years ago created three clearly separate religions.  It is amazing how these small differences can create such hatred between human beings.  There has been way too much bloodshed for these differences.  It seems to me that Armstrong really starts speed up her account of history for the years of 1500-1750.  While all history is important, and in the case of Jerusalem 2000 years ago may be more important than other times.  However, I wish Armstrong would keep a similar pace through time for all centuries.  I look forward to learn the recent history in the conclusion of the book.