Robert Spencer published this guide to Islam two years ago and I have just gotten my hands on a review copy. It was popular enough to be a New York Times Bestseller list and garner Spencer a few “choice” reviews including:

“May Allah rip out his spine from his back and split his brains in two, and then put them both back, then do it over and over again. Amen.”

The above quote from Reviving Islam.com really sums up this book its entirely. The book aims to end some of the politically correct distortions about the nature of Islam. He well and truly fells the notion that Islam is a religion of peace for all but the most dim. As with any of Spencer’s books this is not just mere conjecture but amply demonstrated via quotes and references to both the Koran and the Hadiths.

Furthermore, lest you think that Islam and Christianity share anything but a monotheistic outlook there is ample here to dissuade the notion. Christianity’s prophet preaches peace while Mohammad over and over again preaches all out war. Peace in Islam comes about when all else is either destroyed, enslaved or converted. There is not room for peaceful co-existence in any way that might be recognised by a modern educated person.

There is a very useful section on the myths about the Crusades. He makes sure to make it crystal clear that they were not in fact “an act of aggression” or imperialism but a defensive war. The Christians were defending and retaking lands that had been historical theirs whether it be in the Holy Land, Spain or Central Europe. The Crusades were successful only in mostly keeping Islam out of Western Europe. They would be appalled to see Western Secular governments allowed Islamists to reconquer European territory.

If you are expecting mealy mouthed PC carrying and sharing attitudes toward Islam then look elsewhere. Spencer believes he is on a mission and does not mince words.

I would hope that anyone who considers themselves educated in religion or European history would not find anything in this book new. Alas, I fear that the dumb-down, politically correct infused education system is not teaching students their history much less the history of the Middle East.

I highly recommend this book as a valuable resource to counter the myths, lies and distortions peddled by some about Islam.

There is nothing new under the sun and there is nothing new in jihad either. Since Mohammed laid down his faith the war against all others (dar al kaffir) has been waged. There is no sign that will end any time soon unless we all succumb the sword of Islam.

You can get your own copy through Amazon.