Perhaps no other city has been spoken of as often or as passionately as Jerusalem. This book brings together the kaleidoscopic impressions and perspectives of a representative group of those who have responded to the wonder of the Holy City from the biblical period to the present: Jews, Christians, and Muslims; pilgrims as well as sceptics, travellers, conquerors, scholars, and statesmen. The work gives expression to the discordant notes of contrasting perspectives about the meaning of Jerusalem. At the same time, it reflects the city’s unique distinction as the embodiment of mankind’s highest ethical and spiritual aspirations.