With the current conflict in the Middle East, religious zealots have upped their diatribe regarding their belief that this conflict is signalling Armagedon, the end of life as we know it. They are basing these claims on Revelations (The Apocalypse of John), the scarry Bible book.  According to early tradition, the writing of this book took place near the very end of Domitian's reign, around the AD 95 or 96. Some theologians argue that the Gospel of John contains a realized eschatology which contradicts the futurist eschatology contained in Revelation (e.g., chs. 21–22). Against this view, however, stands the proposition that, properly interpreted, even realized eschatology is not fully-realized eschatology: God's kingdom has been initiated but is not entirely implemented. Recently, aesthetic and literary modes of interpretation focus on Revelation as a work of art and imagination, viewing the imagery as symbolic depictions of timeless truths and the victory of good over evil.

I tend to lean more towards this interpretation. I was raised ultra Roman Catholic and am very familar with the practice of using religion as a fear tactic to keep all the good sheep behaving well.

My problem is this, why has religion become a reason for war. Now I know religion has been the major reason for a majority of battles, but isnt religion supposed to be about peace and love for your fellow man? I dont care what God you pray to, the basic principle of religion is treat others as you would like to be treated? Is that really such a tall order?

I don't believe the current Mid East conflict is the signal for the End of All Time, but I do beleive it continuing proof that as advanced as we are in science and technology, we're still only a bunch of apes with weapons, beating up anyone who doesnt agree with us!