What is the most important city in Bible history, or for that matter, all of human history? Jerusalem. You might say it is God’s own city. In every Bible student’s library there should be at least one volume that explains the city in terms of Biblical history, significant events, and geography. I suggest this volume by Dan Bahat and published by Carta as your first choice.

The author’s life has been dedicated to the history of Jerusalem and it shows on every page. In a responsible way, he has sifted all the reams of archaeological data and recreated a fine history. Though the author is Jewish, I feel he is fair to Christians in telling the story. I might squabble over a detail here and there, but overall it is the most thorough available.

He begins by sharing the topography of Jerusalem as it surely played a factor in many events. Then he reviews basic archaeological elements before launching into its historical beginning, at least in terms of importance, with the Time of David, or the First Temple Period.

He deftly takes time with especially important features like the city’s water supply. You would be surprised how prominently that fits into several Bible events. The discussion of Jerusalem in the times of Christ are particularly helpful.

In what I consider a bonus to the Bible study help, Jerusalem’s history on down to the present times is given. If you have a desire to know the events of the 1900s, which includes the history of the modern state of Israel, you will have all you need here.

The graphics are well done in the manner we expect from Carta. The overlapping over the map of the current city makes this an exceptional resource if you are planning a serious trip there. A fine map for a modern pilgrim as well as a good index concludes the volume. This book is a great resource!

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.