The problem is not the religion itself, though by itself it is barbaric. The problem is that there are some that will take advantage of the fact that belief in the non-existent leaves you vulnerable. That which does not exist cannot speak, so therefore, others must speak for it. If a madman, or simply a crazy person, can support his/her ideas via religion he/she can persuade its adherents to do some crazy stuff.

Regardless of the mad men and women of the world, how is it that sane normal people can be persuaded to do their bidding? It is because the tomes from which all three major religions originate have barbaric and violent teachings within them. Christianity and Islam exhort their followers to spread the message far and wide. The Koran, Quran, or however you want to spell it, has over a hundred verses calling for violence against non-believers. As is observable in the world today, wherever Islam is in charge, or has a great number of followers, bedlam results. It’s not enough that they come to a country that allows them the freedom to exercise their beliefs as they see fit, they feel everyone must be forced to obey the directives of Islam.

So there’s the kicker… the reason these people claim to be peaceful. There will be peace but only after the sword has been used to eliminate or subjugate  everyone. When everyone is the same, there will be peace.