Why an Atheist Thinks the Shroud of Turin is the Real Deal

Charter of Privilege

According to a document in the monastery’s archives, the Charter of Privilege, thought to have been granted by the Prophet Muhammad and signed with his hand print in A.D. 682, the monastery and its monks (and all Christians) are to be protected until the “Last Day.” It reads:

This is a message from Muhammad ibn Abdullah, as a covenant to those who adopt Christianity, near and far, we are with them. Verily I, the servants, the helpers, and my followers defend them, because Christians are my citizens; and by Allah! I hold out against anything that displeases them. (20)

Today, as they have done for hundreds of years, monks work with Muslim Bedouin tribesmen to make and distribute “daily bread” to the population surrounding the monastery. 

In addition to Saint Catherine’s vast library, second only to the Vatican libraries in the number of ancient manuscripts, the monastery houses the world’s most significant collection of religious icons.