The Samaritans

I must say I was quite surprised how little I really knew about the Samaritans - outside of the New Testament references, and the info that various commentaries on those passages supply. I also didn't know that they as a people-group still exist today - and after all most fading away around the time of WW1 (with around a 100 people), they are now 800+ and climbing in the 21st Century. The Author does quite a thorough job covering not only how Samaritans see themselves, but also a critical examination of their origins. He includes not on Biblical references to Samaritans but also looks at references to them in the Early Church Fathers, Roman History, Byzantine History, etc... Plus we get a good examination of the Samaritan Pentateuch as well as other Samaritan Literature. Concluding with chapters that look at Rituals and Customs, and where the Samaritans are at today, and where they are heading. Given the breadth of topics, the author is quite clear that he is being far from exhaustive, and includes extensive references so that the reader can embark on further research. With all the conflict between Israel and Palestine, we often over-look the generational Christians in this area - but as this book indicates we are also overlooking the Samaritans - with their two main centres - one in the Israel-are, and one in the Palestinian area - and how they "get along" with their Jewish and Muslim neighbours, as well as the much smaller group of Christian neighbours. Well worth a read for those interested in modern Israel and surrounds, as well as very worth while for those interested in this fascinating people-group that our Lord Jesus took more than a passing interest in.