The Pope and the Atheist on Islam

Muslims are seething over Pope Benedict's words on Jihad.
"Citing historic Christian commentary on holy war and forced conversion, the pontiff quoted from a 14th-century Byzantine emperor, Manuel II Paleologos.

“The emperor comes to speak about the issue of jihad, holy war,” the pope said. “He said, I quote, ’Show me just what Muhammad brought that was new, and there you will find things only evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the faith he preached.”’

Wow! The Vatican says he was not seeking to offend Muslim sensibilities, but how can he not have expected an extreme reaction from a group which gets offended by squiggles on ice cream?
Viva Papa! I hope the Swiss Guards keep their powder dry.

I also hope the Pope is not charged with defaming Islam, as was Orianna Falacci, who passed away today. She met with Benedict last year, after his call on Europe to retain its Christian heritage. Given her own writings The Rage and the pride and The Force of Reason (for which she was charged with defaimg Islam) I'm sure the conversation was compelling. Requiescat in Pacem.