Chapters 6 & 7 Summary and Analysis

In Chapter 6: The Oracle, Nouriel's search for the word that will reveal the Third Harbinger leads him to the New York Public Library where the prophet appears to intervene in his fruitless efforts. The prophet produces a roll, similar to the Dead Sea Scrolls, and reads the message given to Israel after the first attack which holds the key to America's future: "The bricks have fallen, but we will rebuild with hewn stone; The sycamores have been cut down. But we will plant cedars in their place" (page 46). This was Israel's response to the first invasion, and it sums up the nation's spirit of pride and defiance, sealing their course and foretelling their future. Instead of answering God's call to return, they boast of their resolve, ignoring the alarm and rejecting God's calling. Their vow was a sign of judgment in...