Library of Alexandria

The Library of Alexandria is said to have been the place where vast quantities of Knowledge was stored.  Unfortunately it was destroyed by a Christian mob in 391 AD.  It is said that this mob was led by Bishop Theophilus.  Of course the Muslims also later got their chance to destroy what was left of the Library of Alexandria.  Expansionist Religions seem to love destroying information that does not totally agree with their beliefs.  This Destruction of Knowledge may be the worst act ever committed by mankind, even though it is said to have been done in the name of God.

The Knowledge in the Library of Alexandria was considered by the relatively new Christians to be a great threat to the newly established Catholic Church of Rome so they wanted it destroyed.  Thus the Christians burned the Library of Alexandria under the instructions of Emperor Theodosius.

It is said that over a half million documents were burned.  Many of these documents can never be replaced.  At least now with the printing presses and the Internet the Catholic Church, other Christian Churches and other religions, probably can never again cause such a massive Destruction of Knowledge.  What a shame it is that they were so stupid and afraid of the common people having access to Knowledge.  People with Knowledge are harder to control and do not always tow the party, or religious, line.  They may be considered Freethinkers. 

See "The Shadow of Solomon" p 218

Library of Alexandria

This may have been the greatest library of all times.

It was destroyed several times.  Julius Caesar destroyed it once then the Christians destroyed what was left. (See "Rule by Secrecy" page 363)  Also the Muslims got their turn to destroy it.

I understand that it is being rebuilt and refilled with books.  I wonder which Religion will burn it the next time.

Also see Destruction of Knowledge.