This is the first comprehensive narrative study of the mythology of the Middle East, that tumultuous region that was the cradle of civilization. Leeming offers an illuminating exploration of the mythology of the three great monotheistic religions of the region: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. He notes that fundamentalists in the area's three religions all see their way as the only way, forgetting that myths represent truths that are spiritual and philosophical--not historical events that can be used to justify acts of violence. With key maps, illustrations, bibliography, and index, Jealous Gods and Chosen People provides an inclusive, authoritative, and captivating account of a mythology that remains a potent – and often destructive – force in the world today.

David Leeming

"An excellent introduction to the important mythologies formulated by peoples whose descendents still shape the conflicts in the Middle East. Judaism, Christianity, and Islam all arose in the Middle East, and in accessible and graceful prose, Leeming illuminates the archaelogical and cultural background for the emergence of those warring-cousin belief systems."--Booklist |k No