Terror in the Mind of God

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Beneath the histories of religious traditions, violence has persistently lurked as a shadowy presence. Mark Juergensmeyer explores a critical question: Why do religious individuals commit violent acts in the name of their god, targeting innocent victims and terrorizing populations? This comparative study of religious terrorism examines significant incidents, including the World Trade Center explosion, Hamas suicide bombings, and the Tokyo subway nerve gas attack. Juergensmeyer incorporates personal interviews with key figures such as World Trade Center bomber Mahmud Abouhalima and Hamas leaders Sheik Yassin and Abdul Azis Rantisi, providing insight into the mindset of those who perpetrate and support violence. He contextualizes these acts within global political and social changes, suggesting they are attempts to empower cultures of violence. The analysis delves into economic, ideological, and gender-related dimensions of cultures that embrace a central sacred concept—cosmic war—and use religion to demonize enemies. Juergensmeyer’s narrative is engaging and sweeping in scope, demonstrating that while religion often provides the ideology and motivation for violence, it also holds the potential for peace. This work was recognized as a Best Nonfiction Book of 2000 by the Los Angeles Times.