[publius911]

...saying that anyone who insults a religion can expect a "punch in the nose".

An incompetent translation; what he said in Italian, was anyone who insults my mother can "expect a fist."
A subtle difference perhaps, but clearly a metaphor.

Fortunately, he was NOT speaking ex-cathedra, but as a man, not as the Pope, and as far as I'm concerned, all is well in Dar al-harb.

[Grateful2God]

An incompetent translation; what he said in Italian, was anyone who insults my mother can "expect a fist." A subtle difference perhaps, but clearly a metaphor.

Excellent point! If my little Italian aunts were taken literally, when I was a kid and misbehaved, I might not be here to have this discussion! : ) It's nuance, metaphor, context, gesture, and "losing something in the translation!"

Peace be with you!