In the name of enshrining the Bible as the central text in Israeli life, Israeli Prime Minister Ben-Gurion convened a study group at his residence dedicated to interpreting the book of Joshua. The study group participants asserted that the true meaning of the Bible could only be unlocked by Jews living in their ancient homeland. However, a web of conflicted interpretations emerged from the group and Ben-Gurion’s concluding address set off a fierce debate regarding the basis of citizen rights that has yet to be resolved.

RACHEL HAVRELOCK
(University of Illinois at Chicago)

Cosponsored by the UCLA Department of Near Eastern Languages and Cultures; UCLA Center for the Study of Religion