Sanhedrin

This is the name of the assembly of 70 sages who interpret Jewish law in Elisha's time. These men were ordained rabbis, carrying on a tradition begun by Moses.

Phylactery

Also known as a tefillin, this is headgear worn by the sages that is made from sheepskin and contains parchment scrolls.

Antioch

The capital city of Syria, third largest city in the world of Elisha's time. It is on the river Orontes, and is the city where Elisha goes to live with Pappas when he leaves Israel.

Musaeum

This is the building where documents and specimens are kept, available for study by the populace. The one in the novel is located in Antioch and becomes the primary place for Elisha to continue his readings in search of his truth. All the scholars in Antioch gather there daily, somewhat like a church to wisdom

Caeserea

This seaside village in...