Introduction

After the collapse of Mycenaean civilization around 1200 B.C., the Sea Peoples left their home in the Aegean world and proceeded to occupy the best land in Canaan—the coastal plain. Among the Sea Peoples were the feared Philistines, known from the Bible as ancient Israel’s frequent nemesis. The question is: How did they get to Canaan? In the articles that follow, one scholar argues for a sea route, while a second suggests they came over land.