In the footage, shot from a distance, Saddam - in black beret and olive uniform, with a thick golden chain around his neck - waded through the crowd. "With our blood and souls we redeem you, oh Saddam,'' some cheered. Hoisted by his guards, Saddam ascended the hood of a car and appeared pleased, exhausted and a bit embarrassed by the adulation. As he waved, some thrust AK-47 assault rifles into the air. A.P.

Who indeed can forgive sin and redeem a person's life? God alone.