ABSTRACT
The scarcity of Christian troops rendered the defense of churches and monasteries, which were typically located outside fortified centers, very problematic. Their lack of defense and abundance of precious items made these places ideal targets for Muslim raiders. The fact that the Muslims were often able to take prisoners during their raids constitutes further proof of the Christians’ inability to defend themselves effectively. The theft of sacred objects by the Saracens or their use as tribute to the Muslims undoubtedly represented material and spiritual harm to the Christians. The predictions about the Muslim attacks are always connected to the theme of the impiety of the Christians, unable, because they were sinners, to understand the warnings of God’s messengers. The connection between the Muslims and Satan can be found in some chronicles as well.
