Reuben ben Reuben is a successful salt merchant from Samaria intent on expanding his trade to the far reaches of the Roman empire. His past pushes him away from Samaria. Trade opportunities and freedom propel him toward Egypt along the Via Maris. Only a small, red spot and slight burning on his forearm mar his initial lucrative deal in the town of Magdala. A chance encounter with a Jerusalem temple priest and his devout nephews on the road between Joppa and Jerusalem changes Reuben's life forever. Reuben suffers great loss as his life takes one unexpected twist and turn after another through the ancient cities of Palestine. What does he gain through his relationships with the outcasts of the Jewish and Roman world before he finds himself kneeling at the feet of Jesus asking for a miracle?