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Learning about the abominations contained in the koran only makes the pope's veneration of this blasphemous book all the more scandalous.

A kiss didn't suggest carte blanche approval. It would merely mean acceptance of those things which are true in the Koran, per Vatican II directives on ecumenism, and John Paul II's many comments in this vein. In other words, his actions have to be interpreted in light of his overall teaching, and that of the Church, as crystallized especially in Vatican II.

Politicians who are at odds, often kiss each other on the cheek. Should we interpret that as meaning they are in agreement? This particular gesture had to be understood in the context of Vatican II, Catholic teaching in general, and John Paul's writings.

Tell me what you think the Holy Father meant when he did this; what his intent was. You seem to suggest that it is so obviously scandalous, etc. Are you determined to assert that the pope, the Head of the Church, the Vicar of Christ (and one of the greatest in history, in my opinion) is so obtuse and "out of it" that he could perform an act that you and some others immediately find "intrinsically unwise," one which "gives aid and comfort to the enemy," and "demoralizes" the faithful, etc. - that he could perform this and not see what you see so clearly? The choices are few at this point : either he was so dense that these factors never entered his mind, or he knew full well the scandal it would bring about, and did it anyway, or he is a dupe of the liberals, or one himself, determined to corrupt andd betray the Church.

Your comment suggests it is such a terrible thing, so tell me what you think was going through his mind when he did it? Are you prepared to maintain that the pope, who - I think it is indisputable - has attained a sublime level of spirituality, did this with scarcely any thought as to consequence; in fact, engaged in an act of wanton irresponsibility and outrageousness (as Assisi also is regarded by erstwhile critics)?