He was in an untenable position. Both the US and the upcoming Iraqi governments want his head. His popular support is waning as he shows that he is in it for personal power and would just as soon kill Iraqis as Americans. (And don't forget that his "militia" gets carved up faster then they can say "72 virgins". (BTW, I read yesterday that the Koran had been misinterpreted and that it didn't promise 72 virgins but good dring and plentiful food.)
The desert is large and parched. Such grapes as they usually get from the garden are small, bitter, and dark. But if they follow the simple rules of conduct they will reach a state where the grapes are large, sweet, and clear. Nothing like a bunch of succulent grapes at the end of a dusty, hot day in the desert.
I heard it was 72 raisins that was what is really promised to them.
Recently deceased jihadist: Where are my 72 virgins?
Lucifer: No, not 72 virgins. 72 sturgeons.
Actually, it's all of the above. Paradise is a land of beauty, filled with trees laden heavy with fruit and lakes and rivers of fresh water abounding. Just what you'd believe would be heaven to a primitive arab living in the middle of a desert.
As part of it, they get a huge palace. In this palace is a huge bed covered with 100 sheets. Reclining upon those sheets are 72 "ever fresh virgins" (That's a neat trick - restoring virginity!), all his to do with what he pleases.
This is what primitive arabs considered paradise (actually, it doesn't sound bad to me either. heh)
Oh. The other 28 sheets? Hmmmmm. Those are for the 28 "ever fresh" prepubescent boys. (Ewwwwwwwwwww)
This is as I understand paradise from their perspective at least. And originally, paradise was only attainable by supporting the 5 pillars of Islam, Haj to Mecca, Charity etc.
Godspeed