Day 14, February 8

Abrogation dictates that if two verses in the Koran conflict, the later verse takes precedence.  The most violent chapter in the Koran is the ninth.  It is the only sura that doesn't begin with the phrase known as the Basmala--"Allah the compassionate, the merciful."   It contains verses like "...slay the idolaters wherever you find them and those who refuse to fight for Alla will be afflicted with a painful death and will go to hell." 

Jefferson's reading convinced him that America could not negotiate with the terrorists.  He maintained his stance against paying tribute to the Islamists throughout his presidency and afteward.  However, after his term as president, Congress resumed its policy of paying tribute.

Jefferson foretold what would happen with the employment of such a policy.  Eventually the United States would have to fight the Islamists again.  And again.