Will August 22 Be Significant?

Some observers of Iranian policy note that Iran's U-turn on its nuclear policy today may be significant in light of Shiite religuos belief.

This year, August 22 marks the holy day on the Islamic calendar that is the day of reckoning for Shiites. Some Shiite sects believe that August 22 could correspond to the end of the world. And just today, after much hype, Iran has announced that it will continue to develop its nuclear program. To followers of Iranian President Ahmadinejad, this is a well-timed affront to Israel, the United States and the world. The United Nations had given Iran until the end of the month to respond, but Ahmadinejad had made it clear to all Iranians and the world that he intended to respond on the eve of August 22.

Jesus said that none knew the time nor date of the End, and I tend to trust him more than any Shiite mystic. But who knows if things may get rough tomorrow as a fanatic tries to make his beliefs come true.