"War & Peace in the Holy Land: Biblical and Modern Perspectives" Online Seminar
Jerusalem University College presents its 5th annual online seminar, “War & Peace in the Holy Land: Biblical and Modern Perspectives” on January 11, 2025. This one-day event is free and available to the public. A recording will be provided to all event registrants.
How is war presented in the Bible and what is its ongoing impact on the Holy Land today? What are effective methods for pursuing peace for the future? Join us for four presentations that offer perspective on both ancient and modern answers to these questions. A round table Q&A will follow the presentations.
Event Date
Saturday, January 11, 2025
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Eastern Standard Time
Event Schedule
This presentation explores the concept of covenant as a foundational element for understanding the dynamics of war and peace, both historically and in modern times. It examines how the covenant between God and His people shaped the geopolitical landscape in the Bible, emphasizing repentance and hope as paths to peace. The session will also connect these ancient principles to contemporary conflicts, focusing on the ongoing strife in the Holy Land.
Presenter: Dr. Elaine Phillips
A 5-minute break will be provided between presentations.
This presentation examines the Hebrew Bible's counterintuitive approach to warfare, contrasting it with the power-focused narratives of the ancient Near East. Unlike neighboring nations that celebrated grand military conquests and amassed large armies, Israel was called to trust in God and avoid building up military might. This perspective challenges the notion that the Hebrew Bible glorifies warfare and encourages religious communities to approach even legitimate uses of power with caution.
Presenter: Dr. Charlie Trimm
A 5-minute break will be provided between presentations.
This presentation explores how the book of Joshua prompts deeper reflection on the Torah’s laws of war, challenging oversimplified interpretations of Deuteronomy's commands regarding the Canaanites. It questions whether ethical concerns with these texts are uniquely modern and highlights Joshua's role in fostering meditation on difficult biblical laws. The session aims to demonstrate how these laws align with God’s character and reveal the nuanced moral framework within the conquest account.
Presenter: Dr. Matt Lynch
A 5-minute break will be provided between presentations.
This presentation offers an overview of the evolution of violent conflict in the Holy Land, from the Ottoman period to modern times. It examines the influence of the Turkish empire, European powers, and the nationalist struggle between Jews and Arabs, alongside the emergence of Palestinian identity. The discussion also addresses the role of non-state jihadist groups since the late 20th century and explores potential paths to peace in today’s complex geopolitical environment.
Presenter: Dr. Jon Kaplan
A 5-minute break will be provided between presentations.
A live round table discussion will be held with the seminar presenters to close out the event.