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Hi all,
Following my earlier introduction of my first book Thera and the Exodus, I would now like to introduce my second book, which deals with the origins of Christianity. Although not directly related to ancient Egypt, the events that unfolded 2000 years ago in that region is certainly of interest to the modern world.
In my Barbelo – The Story of Jesus Christ (Google the full title and visit my website), I relate the violent life of this so-called Son of God. To summarise, he was born from a brief and illicit affair between Joseph, Herod’s treasurer, and Mariamne (Mary), Herod’s second wife, around 28 BCE (the year of Augustus’ first census). Mary and her son managed to escape from Herod (the gifts were for her, not for the new-born ‘king’) and only returned to Israel following Herod’s death, when her son was about 30 years old (cf. Luke 3:23). By that time he had already gained a reputation as a magician, and the Jews actually knew him as Simon Magus. Josephus later referred to him as ‘the Egyptian’.
Following his rejection by the Jews, he became increasingly violent and resorted to robbery to sustain his followers. He stormed and ransacked the temple with more than 300 men and was subsequently condemned to die on the cross. He was crucified in 21 CE (see book for independent references), shortly before he reached the age of 50 (cf. John 8:57), under the watchful eye of his biological father, Joseph of Arimathea (Greek Arimathaias, Ara-Mathaias or The Cursed Mathaias). He was removed from the cross before he died and nursed back to health. Having fully recovered, he began building up a revolutionary force with the objective of overthrowing the Romans, but was defeated by Festus. He was later captured and taken to Rome for execution.
In Barbelo I identify Simon Peter as Simon bar Gioras, John the Beloved as John of Gischala, the Flat Feet of “Joseph barsabbas of the Flat Feet” as Gaius Vibius Pansa Caetronianus, the consul of Rome in 43 BCE, and through him the origin of the Jewish claim that Christ was fathered by a Roman soldier called Pandira. Several other figures are also identified as historical figures, including Mary Magdalene and her family members. Christ’s violent legacy is dealt with in great detail.
You may not agree with everything I have to say, but I trust you'll find Barbelo an interesting read!
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