The Source

This a novel. Its charactersand scenes are imaginary except as noted.The hero, Rabbi Akiba, was a real man who died as described in 137 C.E. All quotationsascribed to him can be verified. King David and Abishag, Herod the Greatand his fanily, General Petron- ious, Emperor Vespasian, general Josephusand Dr. Maimonidesw ere also real persons and quotations ascribed to the lastare also verifiable.