God's Terrorists: The Wahhabi Cult and the Hidden Roots of Modern Jihad : Book Review

In "God's Terrorists: The Wahhabi Cult and the Hidden Roots of Modern Jihad," author Charles Allen delves into the origins and ideology of Wahhabism, an extremist sect of Islam. Through meticulous research and historical context, Allen traces the roots of this puritanical ideology back to the 18th century Arabian Peninsula.

The book provides a captivating journey through the history of Saudi Arabia, uncovering the close relationship between the ruling House of Saud and the Wahhabi sect. Allen argues that the royal family has granted significant influence and control over religious institutions and education to the Wahhabi clergy in exchange for support and financial backing.

Allen also highlights the ideological connections between Wahhabism and terrorist organizations such as Al-Qaeda and ISIS. He explores the influences that have shaped the Wahhabi ideology, including a strict interpretation of the Quran and the teachings of controversial figures like Ibn Taymiyyah. The book delves into the role of this ideology in inspiring and recruiting individuals for acts of terrorism.

Furthermore, Allen examines the global spread of Wahhabism, particularly through the funding of mosques and madrassas in countries like Pakistan and Afghanistan. He analyzes the effects of this extremist doctrine on local populations and its impact on global politics and security.

Overall, "God's Terrorists" provides a thought-provoking and comprehensive analysis of Wahhabism. Charles Allen's research sheds light on the historical roots and development of this extremist ideology, as well as its influence on the modern jihadist movement. The book serves as a valuable resource for understanding the global implications of Wahhabism and its role in shaping the security landscape.

What are readers saying?

"God's Terrorists" by Charles Allen delves into the emergence of religious extremism in South Asia, specifically focusing on the fundamentalist movements within Hindu, Muslim, and Sikh communities. This thought-provoking book has garnered a range of opinions from readers.

One frequent point of agreement among reviewers is the recognition of Charles Allen's thorough research and comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. Readers appreciate his ability to present a detailed historical account of religious violence in the region. The book is commended for its meticulous analysis, which sheds light on the multifaceted factors that contribute to the growth of extremism.

Many reviewers also applaud Allen's impartial approach to the topic. They appreciate his neutrality in presenting a balanced narrative, allowing readers to form their own opinions. Allen's journalistic writing style is also praised for its ability to engage and captivate readers.

However, some readers find the book excessively dense and challenging to navigate. Critics argue that the abundance of historical details and information can be overwhelming, making it difficult for readers without prior knowledge to fully comprehend the content. Furthermore, a few reviewers feel that the writing style is repetitive and lacks cohesion.

While many readers laud the book's comprehensive coverage of religious extremism in the region, others argue that certain aspects have been overlooked or insufficiently explored. Some express disappointment that lesser-known extremist groups were not given more attention, while others yearn for a deeper examination of the underlying socio-political factors fueling religious radicalization.

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