The resurgence of religious wars, the strengthening of the Islamic world, and the spread of Islamist terrorism make the search for the causes that drive modern individuals to seek refuge in the metaphysical relevant again.

The development of autonomous research into the phenomenon itself is of great significance, as the Greek Orthodox populations were among the first to encounter Islam during its emergence from the Arabian Peninsula. Furthermore, modern Greece continues to be at the border of two worlds, even if those boundaries are not solid and impassable.

This study focuses on the early Arab period of Islam. It also explores the conditions under which extremist Islam developed and the concept of Holy War (jihad) re-emerged. The reference system, the "us," through which the Islamic phenomenon is approached is also defined.

It presents the factors that contributed to the shaping of the new Hellenism, as well as the form and methods of constructing its identity. It then recounts the history of Islam from its emergence in the deserts of Arabia. The development of the new religion, its relationship with, and differences from, other monotheistic religions are tracked.

The main viewpoints, the mechanisms of dissemination, the expansionist policy of the early caliphs, and the multifaceted encounter of Hellenism with the Islamic world are discussed. Special mention is made of the Emirate of Crete, a unique Arab state of the 9th-10th centuries AD. Finally, the great conflict of Islam with the West is presented, as manifested through the Muslim Holy War and the Christian Crusades.