Re:But Peace means War (Score 1)

Hmm.. But as I recall, Christians and Jews aren't considered 'pagans'; or classed totally as 'unbelievers'. Islam is based upon the Old Testament, the New Testament, and the writings of Mohammed (sp?) (the Quran). And Jews and Christians are refered to by him in his writings as 'People of the Book'; just like the followers of Islam. Now that might not make them part of the immediate family, but according to those writings, they ARE relatives, of a sort. Perhaps, from his point of view, a bit misguided, but not enemies. Of course, some of the dealings between western 'civilization' and the Middle East could hardly be considered a conversation between friends; the Crusades would definitely not give an impression of 'friendliness'. However, even though religion was 'involved' (at least the organization of religion - read church hierarchy); it's also true that, in many places, communities of Jews and early Christians co-habited peacefully with surrounding Muslims; at least until that point.