In addition to Palestine’s
historical strategic importance based on its relatively fertile plains
and its location at the crossroads of Asia and Africa, it is a holy land
to three major religions--Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Although it
is only about 10,000 square miles in area, it is difficult to imagine a
comparable tract of land in the world that has played a more important
role in the affairs of humankind or has been as often and as bitterly contested.
At
Palestine's heart is the
holy city of
Jerusalem,
home of three of the world’s most sacred sites. Within the city are the
Wailing
Wall, said to be a part of the original wall surrounding the Temple
of Solomon and traditionally a gathering place for Jews lamenting the destruction
of the temple and praying for its restoration; the
Church
of the Holy Sepulcher, built on the rock of
Calvary,
where Jesus Christ was crucified; and the
Dome
of the Rock, the late 7th-century mosque enshrining the rock from which
the prophet Mohammed ascended to heaven.
Bethlehem,
a few miles to the south, is second only to Jerusalem as a holy city to
Jews and Christians. The city of King David and place of his anointing
by Samuel is also the birthplace of Jesus Christ; the
Church
of the Holy Nativity includes an altar, marking the traditional site
of Jesus's birth, highlighted by a silver star and illuminated by fifteen
silver lamps representing the various Christian communities. In medieval
times the church was one of the most fought-over places in the Holy Land.
In recent months, it was again the site of armed conflict as a battle
between Palestinians and Israelis inside the church compound led to a five-week
siege and several deaths.
Since biblical times,
the significance of Palestine to the world has far exceeded that merited
by its size and resources. Not surprisingly, it has been a frequent stage
for violent conflicts as Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike have fought
and died for the privilege of controlling access to its holy places.
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