1. Why is it that Daniel does not realize from the beginning that Rosh is deceitful?

2. Can any of Daniel's actions be considered justifiable? Why might liberating Samson be seen as justifiable, while stealing from the elderly man is not?

3. Examine the character strengths of Simon, who sacrifices his business to follow Jesus; Joel, an excellent student with much of the Holy Scripture memorized; Malthace, who seems to understand the feelings of others; and Rosh, who is charismatic but cynical. Which of these characters demonstrates the most wisdom?

4. Who displays more courage, the daring Daniel or the scholarly Joel?

5. Do people today justify their wrongdoings in the same manner as Daniel and Rosh? Provide examples of some of their justifications.

6. What are your thoughts on the novel's conclusion? Does Daniel escape consequences too easily for the pain he has caused? Is his transformation from bitterness to openness too sudden to be believable?

7. Why does Speare include the character of the kind and lonely soldier who befriends Leah?

8. Why does Speare choose to make her main character so flawed? Did Daniel's personality bother or unsettle you?

9. If the majority of Jews want them to leave, why do the Romans remain in Palestine?

10. What role does Nathan's death play in the progression of the story?