To a profane eye, Jerusalem was the first or second capital of Palestine; but after Mecca and Medina, it was revered and visited by the devout Moslems, as the temple of the Holy Land which had been sanctified by the revelation of Moses, of Jesus, and of Mahomet himself.

The son of Abu Sophian was sent with five thousand Arabs to try the first experiment of surprise or treaty; but on the eleventh day, the town was invested by the whole force of Abu Obeidah.

He addressed the customary summons to the chief commanders and people of _AElia_.
"Health and happiness to every one that follows the right way! We require of you to testify that there is but one God, and that Mahomet is his apostle.

If you refuse this, consent to pay tribute, and be under us forthwith.

Otherwise I shall bring men against you who love death better than you do the drinking of wine or eating hog's flesh.