Philip Jenkins is distinguished Professor of History and Director of the Program on Historical Studies of Religion at Baylor University. Prof. Jenkins has published 35 books, which have been translated into sixteen languages. These include Laying Down the Sword: Why We Can’t Ignore the Bible’s Violent Verses. In this book, Prof. Jenkins argues that neither the Bible nor the Qur’an is violent per se, nor are the respective faiths of Islam, Judaism, or Christianity. Prof. Jenkins argues that misguided “believers” in each tradition are the real problem. In each case, different groups and individuals at particular times and places cite scripture to justify terrorist and criminal acts. And in so doing, they tragically bring those sacred writings into disrepute.