Islam Quote by Tom Segev

“Across the city, people quoted a prophecy the Arabs used to tell to glorify the Ottoman Empire: the Turks would leave Palestine only when a prophet of God brought water of the Nile to Palestine. The British had laid pipes that supplied their army with water in the desert, and so Allenby was called…” quote by Tom Segev — Download Open image

““Across the city, people quoted a prophecy the Arabs used to tell to glorify the Ottoman Empire: the Turks would leave Palestine only when a prophet of God brought water of the Nile to Palestine. The British had laid pipes that supplied their army with water in the desert, and so Allenby was called "Allah an-nabi", a prophet of God.””

Tom Segev

About This Quote

Source Book: Israel: A History by Tom Segev, 2000

The quote links a wartime myth about divine prophecy to the practical act of supplying water, showing how folklore can be repurposed to legitimize military actions.

In simple terms: A myth about a prophet was used to justify a military water supply.

Key Takeaway

Recognize how stories shape perceptions of power.

Themes

myth prophecy colonialism military logistics religion

Mood

reflective critical historical

Type

analytical contextual

When to use this quote

military campaigns
colonial administration
public morale
media reporting

Key Concepts

Narrative construction symbolic authority strategic propaganda

Questions to Reflect On

How do myths influence public support for military actions?
What other symbols have been used to legitimize power?

A Different Perspective

The story may oversimplify complex political motives behind the water project.

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