E. J. Hardy traveled widely and emerged as a skilled writer. This account of the Holy Land, written by a clergyman, is an effort to provide a touchstone for modern readers who are interested in the biblical story. Beginning almost as a gazetteer, Hardy describes the agriculture and fauna of the Palestine of his day. Moving on to human institutions he takes measure of business practices and famous cities, children and clothing. Turning to the weather, the climate of the land is described before he moves once again to the cultural question of the place of commandments and laws, customs, death and burial. The experiences of everyday life do not escape his keen eye, including dwellings, eating, drinking, and disease. A brief consideration of Egypt is given before he turns to fire and fuel, holy places, and marriage. Diverse topics such as modes of expression, pits and water, plants and trees, punishment, sakes, insects, servants and shepherds occupy his attention before he concludes with the perennial concerns of war and worship. A distinctive travelogue, this account of the Holy Land will appeal to a wide range of readers.

Edward John Hardy (1849-1920) was a clergyman, raconteur and author. He studied at Trinity College Dublin and traveled the world serving as a military chaplain. He authored several books.