HORNETS’ NEST

Saturday, 25 October 1192 AD

Jerusalem, Market square

Torches were lit everywhere in the market square. From the light cast by the torches, close to a thousand people, most of them being men could be seen. In the middle of the square was a large open tent. It was the venue for mediation between the two warring parties. The flaps of the tent were coiled around the poles. Leaving enough room on all four sides to see what was happening inside the tent. 

Ali Hassan, the Imam of the Dome of the Rock Mosque faced the people gathered outside the tent. He cleared his throat and went on to address them in a voice audible enough for all.

"Seated in the tent with me today are our leaders in the market administration and also a delegation of the traders. As adults, we shall talk through our grievances and find a common ground on which we can work with. We need harmony between all of us.