Al-Quds

Reviewed by: Amaad Choudhry, The Classical Institute, UK

Published by: London: Ta-Ha Publishers, 2024, 224pp. ISBN: 978-1915357342.

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In this book, Mohammed Abdul Hameed Al-Khateeb takes on the daunting task of unpacking why Jerusalem, or al-Quds in Arabic, holds such a unique and revered place in both Judaism and Islam. This is not just a book about a city; it is about a spiritual home that has anchored the identities, hopes, and sacred histories of two of the world’s largest religions. Al-Khateeb does a wonderful job in bringing these complex layers to life, diving into sacred texts, history, and theology to explain what makes this ancient city such a focal point.

The book starts by exploring Jerusalem’s role in Jewish tradition. For the Jewish people, Jerusalem is not just another historical city – it is the site of King Solomon’s Temple, the holiest place on earth and a symbol of the covenant between God and the Jewish people. Al-Khateeb traces this significance back to ancient times, focusing on how the city became a spiritual and cultural anchor, especially during the eras of the First and Second Temples. Through passages from the Torah and the Talmud, he shows how Jerusalem is more than just a place; it is a symbol of Jewish identity and faith, a physical and spiritual home that ties generations together.