Sharing Mt. Moriah
Concerning obstacles to Mideast peace, your Sept. 5 article refers to “the Temple Mount.” Geographically, Temple Mount has a name: Mt. Moriah. Also named Moriah is the large, table-like basalt rock currently enclosed by the Dome of the Rock. Many Jews, Christians and Muslims believe this rock to be the exact location of central events in their religious histories. It is perceived as both a sacred place and a sacred object, variously referred to as “Abraham’s sacrificial altar,” “Melchizedek’s altar,” “King David’s bargaining table with the Jebusites,” “a permanent altar of King David,” “Muhammad’s podium,” etc.
Any proposal for sharing Mt. Moriah must address the further obstacles presented by adversarial zealots unlikely to let others have dominion over the sacred rock.
BRENT BAKER
Isla Vista
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It is incomprehensible to me that Arabs and Jews kill each other over a 36-acre piece of real estate that is supposed to be holy.
The Bible clearly states that God does not dwell in the places made by human hands but he dwells in the heart of man who loves him and follows his commandments.
If only they could catch this concept and bring peace to the area.
JAMES E. CARLSON
Santa Ana
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