Muslim Reactions to the Frankish Presence in Bilād al-Shām: Intensifying Religious Fidelity within the Masses

Dream narratives of Muslims' martyrdom: Constant and changing roles past and present.

“…However, later medieval accounts of dreams concerning those martyred in jihad tend to glorify their actions and often speak of the rewards awaiting martyrs in heaven (Ephrat & Kabha, 2003, p. 48). At times, they include stories of the martyrs having dreams or visions of houris , the beautiful maidens of paradise, before they enter the battle (Cook, 2005, p. 378).…”

“…Through dream narrations, civilians were also commended for seeking martyrdom in fighting unbelievers. Ephrat and Kabha (2003) have noted the case of an elderly jurist in “poor health,” who nevertheless gave his life in jihad against the Franks during the struggle for control of Damascus in 1148 (pp. 52–53).…”