| ID | 135404 |
| Title Proper | What is hiding behind Islamic State? |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Shehadi, Nadim |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | In early 18th-century Aleppo there was a schism in the Greek Orthodox Church, and a new sect emerged called the Melkite Church, in communion with Rome. The Melkites, also called Greek Catholics, needed their own church, but it was illegal to build a new church in the lands of the Ottoman Empire; however, if a Christian church already existed, it was protected and it was forbidden to tear it down.
To build their church, the Melkites resorted to a trick that is practised to this day and that may help explain the complex phenomenon that we call Islamic State. The illegal new church was built in hiding, inside a hangar or a large barn, away from the eyes of the law and of rival sects. After a while the Melkites were betrayed and the barn had to be torn down, revealing a fully built church. Once it was out in the open, the church acquired legitimacy and permanency. |
| `In' analytical Note | World Today Vol.70, No.6; Dec-Jan.2014-2015: p.34-36 |
| Journal Source | World Today 2014-12 70, 6 |
| Standard Number | Insurgency |