Re: Da Vinci Code
I think I said something similar in another thread, but in any case, Da Vinci Code is a well-written fiction book. It challanges the core of Christian faith by stringing together a tale replete with secret societies, alleged historical deceptions and a modern story told in an excellent fashion. Comparing it to poorly written pieces of crap like Satanic Verses is a huge disservice to literature.
I can fully understand the anger by Christians about this book. If a similar book is written about Islam and our Prophet, I have no doubt it will create a huge fuss with fatwas of murder and mayhem flying all across the globe. Response by Roman church is noticably mild, and for a reason. Excesses of Roman churches past had resulted in the vigor displayed to protect freedom of speech. And this book is an example of freedom of speech and opinion.
Since the story is sold as fiction so trying to find parallals from Islamic rulings seem kinda inane. However, from a muslim stand point, to the best of my knowledge Quran is silent on whether Jesus ever married or had kids. And one way or the other, it does not impact his Prophetic teachings or status. However, as discussed in the book, this theory will have a drastic impact on the image of Jesus cultivated by Catholic church. They make it a story about his sacrifice for the sins of his followers and on this premise the Church draws its powers over lay christians.