Joint Uprising of Jews and Samaritans Against Christians During the Third Revolt in 556

The Third Samaritan Revolt, which erupted in 556, marked a significant moment in the historical tensions between the Samaritans, Jews, and Christians in Palestine. This revolt was notable for the unprecedented alliance formed between Jews and Samaritans, who united against the Christian authorities. The underlying cause of this uprising is believed to be the systemic discrimination faced by non-Christians under Byzantine rule. The Byzantine Empire's policies, which favored Christians and marginalized other religious groups, created an environment ripe for conflict. The revolt, however, was met with a swift and brutal response from the Byzantine authorities, who were determined to maintain their dominance in the region. The suppression of the revolt not only led to a decline in the Samaritan population but also solidified Christian control over Palestine. This period of unrest and the subsequent anti-Samaritan policies contributed to the long-term demographic and cultural shifts in the region, further entrenching Christian hegemony and diminishing the presence of Samaritan communities. The Third Samaritan Revolt serves as a poignant reminder of the complex inter-religious dynamics and the struggles for power and recognition in ancient Palestine.