Author Description

This book is primarily focused on the enduring presence of Christianity in Lebanon. It approaches the topic from a strictly historical point of view. The history of Christianity in Lebanon begins with Jesus' ministry and continues through the present. Accordingly, it discusses the various entities that had conquered Lebanon's predecessor, Canaan, or Phoenicia, during those times, specifically the Roman and Byzantine empires. The book explains the subsequent spread of Christianity in Lebanon, as well as the congruence of Canaanite thought and Christian theology, which may have contributed to its initial acceptance. Of interest to this history is the subsequent emergence of Maronite Christians in Antioch, their agonizing early period there, the circumstances of their migration to Mount Lebanon, and their eventual adoption of Lebanon as their homeland. Discussed next is the impact of Arab conquests on Christians in Lebanon, starting with the spread of Islam from the Arabian Peninsula into the surrounding lands and the subsequent Muslim Caliphates and dynasties that ruled Lebanon. This is followed by a discussion of Christian schisms, their ramifications for Christianity, and the emergence of the different religious denominations, or sects, now present in Lebanon. Next, we consider the Crusades for the Holy Land and their consequences in Lebanon during and after this period. Then, the return of Muslim rule, after the Crusaders' defeat, under the Mamluk dynasty and Ottoman Caliphate, culminating with the First World War, is discussed. This is followed by a discussion of the central role played by Christians, especially the Maronites, in the formation of modern Lebanon. Then comes an explanation of major Christian migration waves that began during the Ottoman reign and continued through modern times, as well as the successes realized by Lebanese immigrants and their descendants. Finally, the book concludes with an Afterword that reflects on the patterns and consequences o