Yes, I know a few things about Islam, I lived in Saudi Arabia for a couple years. Read from the Koran, participated in discussions with followers.
I also know that in Saudi, and in many other countries, Clerics are now teaching hate, urging killing, and who is standing up and opposing this?
Is the Saudi government? No. They are the guardians of the most holy sites in Islam, Mecca and Medina, yet they are standing by allowing their religion to be used as a tool for hatred. They are allowing those who envy, those who hate, to use their religion as an excuse to do evil.
Its easy to compare the wicked things done in the name of Christianity, but that does not excuse the evil in the name of Islam.
Personally, I dont remember anyone saying they are going to kill someone "to be closer to Jesus". It may have happened, I havent heard it. Plus, comparing things done hundreds of years earlier dont compare in my view, as our society has advanced (or at least we hope so).
I strongly believe everyone has a right to worship, to believe as he pleases, we do not have the right to judge or force our views or ways of life on others. To bad those who hold strong sway in Islam dont share that view.
dago