Dune: The Butlerian Jihad, Brian Herbert



At the beginning of this week I completed one of the books I received for Christmas from my wife. I had read the original Dune series a few years ago and at the recommendation of a co-worker at the printing plant this summer I picked up House Atreidies. Needless to say I read that book very quickly and found the story to be very enjoyable over all.

I had the same expectations for Butlerian Jihad when I started and I was not disappointed. The novel itself was very good, the story line moved well, and I can’t wait to get the second one in this trilogy to read. However I was disappointed by one thing in particular. The original Dune series is known for being a stunning work with a powerful message about ecology and our treatment of the planet. The Butlerian Jihad only briefly touched on this message particularly at the end. While that in and of itself is not bad because it is the first of a “historical” trilogy. The novel delved in to the religious aspect of the future projected by the Dune chronicles.

I found the over all religious tones very superficial on one level and that the author doesn’t seem to have a good grasp of religion and the working of religions. In the novel there are the Pan-Christians which are more reminiscent of Secular humanism than any real religion having to do remotely with Christian. Then there are the Zensunni, and Zenshitte., there is almost no need for me to explain what two religions are being blended here. The portrayal of these religions suggest to me an extremely basic knowledge this author has on the various religions he is portraying. For example from my studies I see practically no ground for grouping Zen Buddism with the Islamic faith. In fact the two religions would have more trouble joining together than say Christian and Muslims.

Overall I would say the book is a good read if you disconnect your knowledge about religion from your reading. Either way it’s an excellent way to kill a few hours.

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