Attempts to Change History
Reader comment on item: The Year the Arabs Discovered Palestine

Submitted by L. (United States), Mar 25, 2005 at 12:55

Interesting points raised. I was actually referred to this webpage from one of your more recent articles by clicking on the link "BACK TO 1920."

I, too had thought that originally Palestine was referred to as the Jewish homeland. I think the Arabs would have a better case if they referred to themselves as Philistines, of course drawing from the historic nation that existed in Gaza, Philistia. One time I purchased a small item from a young man in Jerusalem who proudly said he was a "Philistine."

Another point that is interesting to note is that the Arabs are arguing for the West Bank land and having a capital in Jerusalem and having the Right of Return. Should Israel give these issues up, they are actually giving up the true original land of Judea and the important cities of Bethelem (see information about biblical Rachel), Hebron (see Abraham), and Nablus (Joseph) not to mention Jerusalem and the site of the two temples. Right of return was also an modern Israeli right provided to all Jews in the diaspora who wished to return to their homeland.

I enjoy your articles.

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