Series Name: The Defenders, Vol. 1
Issue #: 97
Year: 1981
Story Title: "Slouching Toward Bethlehem"
Details:

• The Defenders travel to Israel to investigate a self-proclaimed Messiah performing miracles, drawn into the escalating Six-Fingered Hand storyline

• Devil-Slayer returns; features Doctor Strange, Valkyrie, Hellcat, Son of Satan, Nighthawk, Gargoyle, and Man-Thing

• Newsstand edition

Credits:

• Writer: J.M. DeMatteis

• Penciler: Don Perlin (breakdowns); Joe Sinnott, Sal Trapani, Jack Abel (finished art)

• Inker: Joe Sinnott; Sal Trapani; Jack Abel

• Cover Artist: Al Milgrom (inks)

• Publisher: Marvel Comics

• Pages: 22

• Color: Color

• Cover Price: $0.50

OVERVIEW
Part of J.M. DeMatteis's acclaimed run on the series, this issue sends the full Defenders roster — including Devil-Slayer — to Israel on the trail of a miracle-working Messiah connected to the Six-Fingered Hand arc. The story blends supernatural Marvel mythology with bold thematic territory, showcasing the character-driven writing that defined this era of the book. A compelling read for fans of Bronze Age Marvel and the classic Defenders lineup.