banner of heaven

The zealot may be outwardly motivated by the antcipation of a great reward at the other end -- wealth, fame,

eternal salvation – but the real recompense is probably the obsession itself. This is no less true for the religious fanatic then for the fanatical pianist or the fanatical mountain climber. As a result of his or her infatuation, existence overflows with purpose. Ambiguity vanishes from the fanatics worldview; a narcissistic sense of self-assurance displaces all doubt. A delicious rage quickens his pulse, fueled by the sins and shortcomings of lesser mortals, who are soiling the world wherever he looks. His perspective narrows until the last remnants of proportion are shed from his life. Through immoderation, he experiences something akin to rapture. Although the far territory of the extreme can exert an intoxicating pull on susceptible individuals of all bents, extremism seems to be especially prevalent among those inclined by temperament or upbringing toward religious pursuits. -Jon Krakauer