Blood Brothers: The Dramatic Story of a Palestinian Christian Working for Peace in Israel

by Elias Chacour, Gabe Lyons (Foreword), James Baker (Afterword)

As a child, Elias Chacour lived in a small Palestinian village in Galilee. When tens of thousands of Palestinians were killed and nearly one million forced into refugee camps in 1948, Elias began a long struggle with how to respond. In Blood Brothers , he blends his riveting life story with historical research to reveal a little-known side of the Arab-Israeli conflict, touching on questions such

•What behind-the-scenes politics touched off the turmoil in the Middle East?
•What does Bible prophecy really have to say?
•Can bitter enemies ever be reconciled?

Now updated with commentary on the current state of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as well as a new foreword by Lynne Hybels and Gabe Lyons, this book offers hope and insight that can help each of us learn to live at peace in a world of tension and terror.

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Biography, Middle East, Memoir, Christian, Book Club

240 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1984

About the author

Elias Chacour is the Archbishop of Akko, Haifa, Nazareth and All Galilee of the Melkite Greek Catholic Church. Noted for his efforts to promote reconciliation between Arabs and Israelis, he is the author of two books about the experience of Palestinian people living in present-day Israel. He describes himself as a "Palestinian-Arab-Christian-Israeli".

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elias_Ch...

Reviews

[Matthijs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before reading this book I thought I had quite a balanced view on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. After reading this book I see how I also fell victim to the Israel-as-hero story. No, I didn't approve everything Israel does, especially the last decades, and yes, I did feel that the rights of Arabs needed to be more taken into consideration. But at the same time I had this feeling of the Israeli state as being inherently good. They make mistakes, agreed, but aren't they all just well meaning people?

This book changed that perspective, without me going over to the other side: the idea that Israel is inherently evil. I guess it added some realism. Chacour, being an Arab christian is an interesting spokesperson, recognising both a Biblical role for Jews and the very real suffering of Arabs.

Chacours story is a very personal account of Zionist's occupation of one little village in Israel, his village, and his quest to try and bring peace between the two peoples, both descending from the same ancestor: Abraham. For him this means telling his personal story of occupation and oppression, while at the same time acknowledging and respecting the majority of Jewish citizens that also loathe violence and oppression.

This is one man's story about living and working in that tiny state along the Mediterranean. It's also a story not too often heard in Christian/Evangelical circles. For me it added realism and a much needed balance in sympathy for both Israel and the Palestinians. It also made me realise the strange and questionable role the West played in founding the state of Israel and looking the other way when oppression got nasty.

Thanks mister Chacour for broadening, and changing, my perspective with your personal story. Thanks for emphasising the importance of a balanced stand against violence from all sides and thanks for reigniting a tiny glimmer of hope for peace when people who follow Jesus aim to be spokespeople for reconciliation.

***
Disclaimer: Although being Dutch, I try to review books I've read in English in English, for the international audience the English version will attract. Please excuse any bad English or strange grammar.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

1/11 - Read this again for book club and loved it even more than the first time. His messages of peace and love for his fellow men are needed so desperately today. Some of his methods for creating a sense of ownership and hope is to build schools and community centers - much like Greg Mortensen. I saw a lot of similaries in their approach to long-standing problems. It was frustrating to read what happened to his family and many other Palestinians and realize that their story is rarely told in the news. It is so one-sided in favor of the Jews. He proves that there are always 2 sides to a story and his people have suffered tremendously. Well worth the 2nd read.

10/05 - This book gave me a new perspective on the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians. The main character is a Palestinian Christian and he is doing wonderful things to change his corner of the world. One of my top 10 inspiring books.

[grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok, this actually was a really good book. It was a true story so that obviously makes it way more inspirational. It was heart-wrenching and the values shown among these people living in dispute is the real lesson to take from it. It is not about whether the story is fun and action packed, it's about what the story represents and how the growth of Chacour relates to the growth of his nation(s). Of course, it was not the most entertaining book, it was boring at times, but when I read of the difficult times and the cruel punishments that him and his family/friends were thrown into, it was the outcome and how they survived that impacted me the most. It's one of those books that kind of plunges you head first into a whole new world with a different perspective.

[Mihai Zodian · Rating 4 out of 5]

The life story and message for reconciliation of Elias Chacour. The reader can see the ongoing conflict through a Palestinian perspective, which may question some of the ideas taken for granted. His calling was to live like Jesus wanted for His believers, in the Holy Land, and to reject force.

The book emphasizes a bottom-up approach and the personal experience, not the office and the power.

[Sophia Jessum · Rating 5 out of 5]

i was pretty hesitant to start this book, but i am so glad to have read it. it was so inspiring and the way elias chacour lives his life is truly an embodiment of christ/the bible. growing up catholic i definitely have my own thoughts about religion, but it was refreshing to hear about the life elias lives. it was also heartbreaking and hard and makes me want to learn more about the history of the arab-israeli conflict

[Shelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let's stop the polarized conversations. We all need to work for peace. Let's Begin by understanding the Palestinian and Israeli conflict from a Palestinian Christian who lived it, saw his people suffer and has been working for peace many many years. Published in 1984, it is still a relevant read today. I can't recommend this book enough!

[Owen Hatch · Rating 4 out of 5]

An impressive story told by an impressive person. I really enjoyed Chacour’s narration techniques and admired his emphasis on individual conflict stemming from external conflict.

[Carla Grosjean · Rating 4 out of 5]

first book club book!! saving rating and review for the group

[Ava Mattis · Rating 5 out of 5]

a book I would have never chosen for myself, but one I think should be read by every single person in this world. it always astounds me how there can be so much knowledge in the world and it can all be attained if we just reach out for it. the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is one that has troubled and confused me for a long while, but this book brought so much clarity, insight, and hope through historical fact and personal narrative. will never stop recommending this to everyone I meet and can’t wait for the discussions it will bring into my life. how lucky we are that souls like Elias Chacour exist and impact our world

[Ella · Rating 5 out of 5]

this heartbreaking book was so beautifully written, and chacour’s message of compassion and unity is inspiring.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I've read/listened to this year, highly recommend.

[Laura Hoffman Brauman · Rating 4 out of 5]

“If there is a problem somewhere,” he said with his dry chuckle, “this is what happens. Three people will try to do something concrete to settle the issue. Ten people will give a lecture analyzing what the three are doing. One hundred people will commend or condemn the ten for their lecture. One thousand people will argue about the problem. And one person—only one—will involve himself so deeply in the true solution that he is too busy to listen to any of it.”

Elias Chacour was born and raised in Palestine. When he was a child, his family was kicked off the land where they had lived for generations. His father’s Christian faith was a deep anchor for the family, and while life was very difficult, they responded with continued love towards their Jewish neighbors and his father continued to advocate for a way to live together in peace. Chacour went into the seminary and became a priest himself and has dedicated his life to being a peacemaker. He has worked to bring hope to his people, to look for ways for Jews and Arabs to live together, and to speak to the historical realities of the situation in Israel. There is a lot to appreciate about this work - from a historical perspective, I had a fairly biased understanding of the founding of Israel, and certainly didn’t realize the steps that went back into the late 1800’s, early 1900’s. Most of what I had heard had been about the need for a Jewish homeland after WWII. From a perspective of spirituality or faith - Chacour is a man who lives his beliefs and who works on a daily basis to improve the lives of those around him. He is an example of what it means to live your faith and to have your works speak volumes about your beliefs. He truly is inspiring to read about.

This one ended up on my #50Before50 list when I asked people for books that had influenced their lives and thoughts. This was one of the recommendations and I am so glad that I picked it up.

[Ed · Rating 5 out of 5]

For those who want to truly understand the morass that is the Israeli/Palestinian conflict, this book is a must read. Elias was born in the early 40's to a Palestinian Christian family that dates its roots back to New Testament times. His life encompasses the entire conflict. In the book you watch the painful transition of a peaceful village in which the town's only rifle was buried out of concern for violence, to occupation, distrust, and ultimately war. Through it all, Elias' commitment to peace through the principles of the Sermon on the Mount, gives hope in the midst of all the hopelessness.

[Erin Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one is such a genuine banger and a beautifully touching way to learn about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through the years, through a lens of reconciliation

[Debra George · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imagine you're a Christian child and a native of the Holy Land, living there as you and your family practice your faith in the very setting of Jesus' earthly life. In the company of all your close as well as extended relatives, your home's setting is surrounded by where Jesus was born and raised, where He ministered, performed miracles, died and was resurrected. But then, suddenly and without warning, you find yourself swept up in the raging violence and terror that begins the Israeli-Palestinian conflict…

"Blood Brothers" by Elias Chacour, has become one of my all-time faith favorites as a story that has withstood the test of time for many reasons both earthly and spiritual. One obvious--and unfortunate--explanation for its endurance is this book's earthly subject remaining so relevant. It still captures the headlines.

But the book's true gem of stamina is its special spiritual focus on reflecting the light of Christ in a dark place, and it is this quality that ensures its being a timeless treasure for believers no matter the headlines.

Blood Brothers was first published by Chosen Books, a Division of Baker Book House Company, back in 1984 with several reprintings that followed including my own expanded edition. Despite its publication date, this book remains the crucial backstory of the current headlines. Preserved in print, its reverberating theme now climaxes as a call for a peaceful resolution before the coffin permanently closes on the two-state solution.

I was introduced to this book several years ago, when my children were still small and I wanted to find a way to introduce them to this matter but felt that the books I had read on it were too grim to share. So I asked an organization that I belonged to, the United Methodist Church’s Task Force on Peace with Justice for Israel/Palestine, if they knew of a book that could explain the Israeli-Palestinian conflict without the end result creating the negative feelings of Anti-Semitism, Anti-Palestinian, or Islamophobia. Being that we are an Orthodox Christian family, I also had some concerns about how the overall Christian connection would be framed.

The resounding recommendation I received from the UMC organization was Blood Brothers by Elias Chacour with David Hazard. I went on to purchase this book for my son, but of course I also read it. With all my previous readings, interviews, and attending lectures on this conflict, I had became rather well-versed about the many complexities of it which included the “Nakba”. This is the Palestinian word for the catastrophy (their description for when Zionists arrived in Palestine and forcefully took the land in the Zionist quest to reclaim biblical Israel). But what made this book of a Palestinian prospective different for me was that this story was told through the first-hand eyewitness account of a native devout Christian, Elias Chacour, who possessed the impressive pedigree of belonging to a family that could trace their lineage, along with the roots of their Melkite community in Galilee, all the way back to the very time when Christianity was born!

Blood Brothers is Elias Chacour's own personal story, throughout which he bares his soul chapter by chapter in reflecting on what it was like to be a young boy caught up in the war of 1948, with the aftermath of dispossession and persecution. While a reader with some knowledge on both sides of this issue might simply assume that since this story is about what a Palestinian experienced from 1947 on, then it must be all about devastation and loss. But what such a reader is unprepared for is how Chacour's story surprisingly uplifts as he shares how his family struggles to survive in ways that were in lockstep with gospel teachings. "Blessed are the peacemakers" became more than a directive; it justified their refusal to take up arms in their own defense.

Chacour grows from being a child during the Nakba to a coming of age during the settler colonialism period that followed. It was during this latter phase, as many fellow Christians were struggling to hold onto their faith, that our main character began to realize he was being called to serve the church. Chacour provides his scattering flock with comfort, inspiration and enduring strength. Though challenged, he balances retaining his truthful witness of the injustices all around him while reaching out to "love thy enemy". Page by page, the reader experiences Chacour growing in his faith and humanity, his effectiveness leading to his climb in the ranks of the Catholic Church in the Holy Land, earning credentials and credibility along the way as he evolves from survivor-turned priest-turned bishop-turned peace activist. He even goes on to become an award-winning humanitarian. All of these accomplishments lead to him to gain the admiration of his people, and eventually even the respect of Israeli officials and world leaders.

This book is further enhanced by its endorsing foreword by former U.S. Secretary of State James Baker III (who held that position during 1989-92). Reading this message from someone in such high standing gives authenticity to the value of the book from an official American prospective. It was the dedicated work of Sec. Baker that paved the way to the Madrid Conference in 1991, an endeavor which was the forerunner to open the door to the Oslo Accords a couple of years later. And it was Oslo that has been the blueprint for the peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians which had existed (at least on paper) right up to our present year. Sec. Baker's own efforts toward Holy Land peace makes his foreword all the more influential as well as informative for the reader.

While you can be sure that you will gain a fuller knowledge and understanding of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by reading Blood Brothers, know that you will also be treated to the story's testimony of how the depth of faith not only can succeed to sustain oneself, moreover it can inspire to educate and edify the faith in others who also face crisis.

If you consider the Holy Land special and if you favor a peaceful solution to this region's sufferings, then you will prize "Blood Brothers" as much as I do. Elias Chacour's classic proves that while following the Christian path is not always one that can avoid the dark division of politics and differing religions, Christians can nonetheless discover a way to avoid the demonization of others and truly "love thy enemy" even under the most dire of circumstances—and that is the treasured message mirroring this teaching of Jesus that makes Elias Chacour’s book one of the best faith-based books you will ever read!

--Debra George, www.christiancoffeeclutch.blogspot.com

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent. I certainly have learned from Chacour’s memoir that there is still much that I don’t understand about the Arab/Israeli conflict. I had a vague understanding before reading this that Israel has not necessarily been the “hero” of the Middle East, but now I understand a bit better how Israel’s wrong decisions have significantly escalated this conflict at various times.

Father Chacour is a Palestinian Christian who grew up in a Christian village in Galilee. His people lived in harmony with the nearby Jews until post WWII when the independence of Israel changed everything about Palestine. It was disturbing and upsetting to learn about these events from Chacour’s perspective. Chacour was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize and has devoted his life to working for peace between the Arabs and the Jews. While often a brutal tale, it is thrilling and inspiring to learn about the ways God has used him to bring reconciliation, hope and healing.

[RyleeAnn Andre · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very moving story and message! I didn’t know much of the history behind the Palestinian and Israeli conflict before this but the book offered good background knowledge. A great book to read about reconciliation, peace, and faith.

[David Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author of “Blood Brothers” Elias Chacour, is a Palestinian who traces his family roots in Palestine to the time of Christ. He is also a Christian and a priest in the Melkite Byzantine Catholic Church. Chacour narrates his life story revealing the struggles of a Christian family in a world dominated by, oppression, and injustice.

The book tells of several turning points in Chacour’s life, all of them are marked by prayer, divine providence, and grace. For example the response of Chacour’s father responding to the attack of Zionist soldiers by praying “God, help us to show love to our Jewish brothers. Help us to show them peace to quiet their troubled heart.”And by saying to his children “Jews and Palestinians are brothers blood brothers. We share the same father, Abraham, and the same God.” Likewise his mother when facing the agony of losing her husband and sons, prays: “God, allow us to be Your servants . . . Let our hands be Your hands to comfort the suffering. Let our lips bring the peace of Your spirit?

The prayers of his parents defined his vision and shaped his beliefs. Like his mother, he chose not to surrender to abuse and like his father he decided not to turn to violence. God has a better plan for Chacour and the uprooted Palestinian people. He has a message of heavenly peace to people living in daily war. Chacour, like most people of deep faith and commitment had to confront many vexing intellectual questions raised by the Bible and its interpreters. Through these questions God defined his vision of reconciliation using the beatitudes. The insight was simple yet profound for Chacour. He writes: “Suddenly, I knew that the first step toward reconciling Jew and Palestinian was the restoration of human dignity. Justice and righteousness were what I had been hungering and thirsting for. This was the third choice that ran like a straight path between violent opposition and calcified, passive non-resistance.”

Chacour is called to be a peacemaker and learns how to build bridges where others have built walls. To Jews and Palestinians he writes: “The world knows and you (the Jews) must know, it was a [false] belief that God Himself had created a single pure race that blinded Hitler with power and fueled his hatred, arrogance, and sense of divine right.” To Palestinians he writes: “Do we need to produce more victims, more martyrs and more humiliation in order for the world to wake up and see the truth.” And to the whole world he writes; “Blood Brother’s is not only a story but is also an invitation to pursue God’s perilous path of peacemaking.”

I don't know what the answer is for Israeli-Palestinian conflict, but I do know if more of the leaders on both sides were as inclined towards love and peace as the family described in this book, that peace would be attainable. Chacour has devoted his life to cultivating neighborly love between Jews, Christians, and Muslims in the Middle East.

What really sets this book apart is that Chacour takes seriously the concern of many American Christians with Bible prophecy and what it has to say about Israel. This is his challenge: Belief in prophecy does not overrule the duty of obedience to the God Who is love. And he doesn’t say this in order to dismiss prophecy. He believes in it.

[Caleb · Rating 3 out of 5]

Elias Chacour grew up in Biram, a relatively small town in Galilee. He was welcomed into the world with a loving family who believed in Jesus Christ. He enjoyed going on spiritual walks with Jesus, his savior and role model. However the best things in life don’t often last forever. In young Elias’ case, it was World War II. Following the aftermath of Hitler, Palestine grudgingly welcomed Zionist Jews and their military. They confiscated the houses, farms, and churches from the people. God called on Elias to bring peace between Arabs and Jews. He was able to find education in a bishop’s school, and further understand the Arab-Israeli conflict. Elias struggled to love the Jews, and he struggles to clarify the misunderstanding of his people. The men of Galilee are able to help him with a saying. “Blessed are the peacemakers.”
Personally, I did not find this book very interesting. I often found myself zoning out and forcing myself to reread a page that my brain let slip through. But then I read other summaries by people with much more experience than I have. The book suddenly became more appealing to me. I enjoyed reading how other people interpreted the book and compared it to what I understood. I found that the book put emphasis on the whole Arab-Israeli conflict, however by the end of the book, it seemed as though the the focus was directed at Western Christians and Arabs than Jews and Arabs.
I don’t think that other high schoolers would find this book appealing or interesting. I think that I, personally, am too young to fully appreciate this book considering the amount of good reviews I’ve seen. However, if the audience was just people who enjoyed reading non-fiction books about the Middle East, then I say it is perfect.

[Jeremy Niemeyer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Elias Chacour’s book "Blood Brothers" illustrates his own incredible life in Palestine as a refugee. The book describes the hardships Elias and his family had to go through. The story opens in the 1940s in the village of Biram, where Chacour spent his early childhood. He grew up having a strong relationship with Jesus Christ and often went of spiritual walks with Him. Soon though, Israeli soldiers invade the village, first living alongside the villagers, but later forcing an evacuation. Thus begins his life as a Palestinian refugee.
In the midst of all the conflict between the Arabs and the Jews, God called upon Elias to help bring peace to the two groups. He attends various schools in an effort to make this peace. Jews and Palestinians in Israel. The book is about how Jews and Arabs are, in fact, blood brothers and should treat each other as such.
I gained a lot of knowledge from the reviews other people posted on this book, many of them saying how the book made them feel in ways I myself hadn’t thought of while reading the book myself. Chacour most likely wrote this book for older audiences and if I were to read it again, I feel I would be able to receive a full understanding on everything the author was saying throughout his story.
If you are the type of person who reads for enjoyment and likes to be captivated by what you read, then I do not recommend this book for you. I you would like to learn more on the history of Israel and Palestine, or you just like an inspiring true story then you may enjoy this book.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a powerful book. I admit it made me quite uncomfortable to learn about some things that occurred during the creation and subsequent settlement of Israel. I have always been, and still consider myself, pro-Israel when it comes to the ongoing conflict in that area, but Chacour’s own documented experiences have forced me to reconsider things from the Palestinian perspective. Chacour is a Christian Palestinian Arab who was a young boy living in a small village near Nazareth at the time Israel achieved statehood in 1948. Since then he has been in the epicenter of the Israel/Palestine conflict.

What leaves me most impacted from this account is the author himself. Elias Chacour has become a new hero of mine. His undying attitude and spirit of grace, understanding, and forgiveness almost defy belief. He has provided a shining example of the the highest and most powerful way to approach conflict with others. This is like a handbook for how to be a true follower of Christ.

[Marisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

The content of the book and the details about Chacour's life are fascinating, but the actual writing of the book is just not that great. I understand that English isn't Chacour's first language, so I feel guilty criticizing his writing, but it's overly simplistic and reads in a juvenile manner. I also feel guilty for not loving this book when I greatly admire the work this man has done, how dedicated he is to doing what he can to achieve peace between Palestinians and Israelis. It doesn't feel right to sit and nitpick a book that tells a very personal story with incredibly deep emotions running through it, but I do admit to feeling disappointed by it.

If you're interested in an unorthodox perspective of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the book is worth a read, but there's also a lot of stuff to wade through to get to the particularly interesting tales.

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

Arturo has to read this for his English class, so I read it too. I learned a lot about the Palestinian experience post-WWII, beginning with the arrival of the Zionists and the takeover of land and village. The Bible and religious references were a bit much for me, but I guess that's Chacour's story; that's how he experiences life. The point of reading this for the English class is to show how one person can make a difference; it makes that point pretty well.

[Zehra Momin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood Brothers is a story about forgiveness and Palestinian resistance. Our author, Elias Chacour, a Christian, grew up in the small village of Galilee with his Mother, Father, and his many siblings. The book starts off with startling news coming into the village: Zionists were coming to Palestine seeking safety after World War II. Their stay was said to be temporary, so they were welcomed with open arms and great hospitality, but over time they gained control and took over the people’s land and their homes. They took the men and boys captive, leaving the women and children defenseless and alone. Although most of them escaped or were returned, their lives were never the same. They were kicked out of their village and they faced abuse from the Israeli military. This is where Elias started his spiritual journey. Being inspired by his father’s patience, he set out to find inner peace and to understand the injustice towards Palestinians. As he traveled the world learning the teachings of Jesus and trying to understand such hatred, he faced many hardships, but also found unforgettable connections. After studying in many places, he was put to work in a small Palestinian village called Ibillin. It was a difficult job, but he managed to turn the damaged and hateful place into a loving and forgiving one, where Muslims, Christians, Jews all lived together in peace. They supported him and his efforts for the liberation of Palestine, and even joined his protests. I rated this book a 5 because it is about a topic I am genuinely interested in, and it shows the true history of Palestine that many people refuse to look at. It shows that Muslims, Jews, and Christians, can live together peacefully: “Their heads were bowed, praying to the same God.” and, “Further away, the marchers had already intermingled–Christian, Jew, Moslem, and Druze”(Chacour 193). This book highlights the fact that the source of the conflict is the lack of justice for the oppressed. Elias used rhetorical strategies throughout his writing to hook the reader. He asked questions to the reader and had specific tones for different parts of the book. For example, when talking about the lies spread about the occupation of his land, Chacour used specific word choices that established a somber but frustrating tone. By using these choices, Chacour is attempting to persuade the reader and help them understand the true Palestinian struggle and not the one portrayed by the Western media. I was previously informed about this topic, but hearing the story of someone's life living through the occupation is really inspiring. The patience and faith of the Palestinian people is admirable and teaches the reader that as well. I would recommend everyone to read this book because there is always more we could learn about people and their struggles, especially since we live in the West and are often sheltered from what happens outside of America.

[Erika · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not a political book. It is the story of a boy exiled from his home and grown to be a peacemaker who dares forgiveness and non-violence in a warring land. If his existence as a Palestinian Christian seems by nature too politically charged based on current events, lay down your pride and pick up this book. This is not a political cry of whose banner to wave from your little green lawn in America.

Blood Brothers is an excellent introduction to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict of the last 75 years or so, leading to a foundational understanding of current events in the Middle East. Chacour's faith is captivating. He has brought me before the Lord and grown my heart as well as my knowledge. I am listening better now to the human pain, without the fear of "choosing a side" blinding my capacity to love.

From Abuna Elias Chacour in 2012:

"You want to be pro-Israel? God bless you. I am pro-Israel too. But who told you that to be pro-Israel you must be anti-Palestinian? You don't know us.

If you [share a meal with a Palestinian refugee], you might decide to become pro-Palestinian as well. God bless you. . . But if being pro-Palestinian makes you anti-Jewish, we do not need your friendship." (231)

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a memoir, the personal account of the author's experiences living, first in the British Mandate of Palestine and then, after the Israeli war of independence, in Israel. But the author isn't Jewish, but rather a Palestinian Christian whose family had peacefully farmed their land in Galilee for generations. But the creation of the state of Israel changed all of that. Their lands were seized and the family became refugees in their own homeland.

The author was fortunate to be able to take advantages of his educational opportunities, and ultimately became a priest in the Malkite Church. As a priest, he began to work to bring peace, both to his fellow Palestinians and to his brother Jews. Chacour is clear in expressing his desire to see beyond the black and white of the conventional political rhetoric to see that both side of this conflict have legitimate concerns. His desire is to overcome the obstacles that stand in the way of true peace, to reconcile the Zionist need for a homeland where Jews can be safe from the persecutions that have been visited upon them for centuries with the Palestinians who had lived on this land for generations and rightly feel that it has been stolen from them. His story is a plea for us to look beyond the conventional story as it is often portrayed in the media and see the individual lives that are at stake. His example shows that by recognizing our common humanity, true peace just might be possible.

[Rachel B · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This is both a memoir of the author's work in peacemaking, and a history of the unrest between Israel and Palestine.

I knew virtually nothing of the issues between these two nations (only that they existed), and it was enlightening and saddening to learn the details.

In a way, it was refreshing for me, a white American, to read about a racial/ethnic divide that wasn't the black and white one. It allowed me to look at the division with more objectivity and offered a perspective that I can apply to the tensions in my own society.

My only concern with the book is that the gospel of Jesus didn't seem to be clearly presented, and Chacour didn't address the biblical passages that address peace, such as when Jesus says that he did not come to bring peace on earth (Matt. 10:34). It left me unsure of which message Chacour actually believes: that there is only one way to be reconciled to God (through the blood of Jesus), or that all religions which claim to serve the God of the biblical Old Testament, and reject Jesus as the Messiah, are as valid as Christianity.

[Grant Lewandowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has quickly become one of my favorite books! I couldn’t stop reading it. It offers a heartbreaking yet hopeful glimpse into the life and journey of peacemaker Elias Chacour. I was deeply moved by his faithful commitment to following Jesus, his message of peace and reconciliation, and his perspective as a Palestinian who grew up along the shores of the Sea of Galilee.

I believe this is essential reading for any Christian seeking to better understand the call to peacemaking and reconciliation. Also the importance of loving and caring for Jews, Israelis, Arabs, and Palestinians together and not picking “sides.” (Aka loving your neighbor as Jesus calls us to)

[Lindy · Rating 3 out of 5]

The touching perspective of an Arabian Christian who witnessed the heart breaking effects of Zionism in Palestine.

Take away: We are not doing anyone any favors to villainize or worship either Israel or the Palestinians. We must judge based on how they treat people.

My own take: Palestine wasn't Palestine until British colonialists got involved after WWI. We need to be really careful about taking geopolitical stances and force feeding our perspectives down the throats of grown adult who have their own histories, cultures, and stewardships.

Deeper take away: "Become the change you want to see in the world." We create peace by being peaceful and curious about others' journeys.

[Gina Ulicny · Rating 5 out of 5]

5. I read this book before my first trip to Israel. It certainly was eye-opening, inspiring,gut-wrenching,… I highly recommend this to have a better understanding of that region of the world… Throughout the centuries. And also for anyone (especially those of faith). It is a pertinent read. Like everyone, I truly fell in love with the author. His genuine compassion, love, mercy, forgiveness… His truly living ‘forgive my neighbor… Love, my neighbor as thy self’ With Christ in the center, worshiping God… An inspiration beyond.