The Jesus Mysteries : Was The "original Jesus" ... May 2026

: Critics point out that the authors often cite no primary ancient sources for their claims about "standard" godman myths.

: The vast majority of scholars maintain that Jesus was a real historical figure, citing early independent sources like the letters of Paul and non-Christian references from Josephus and Tacitus. The Jesus mysteries : was the "original Jesus" ...

The book by Timothy Freke and Peter Gandy (published in 1999) presents a provocative "Jesus Mysteries Thesis". It argues that the Jesus of the New Testament was not a historical person but a mythical figure created by Jewish "Gnostics" who adapted ancient Pagan myths. Core Argument: The "Jesus Mysteries Thesis" : Critics point out that the authors often

: They followed up with Jesus and the Lost Goddess , which focuses on Christian mysticism and the "Aeon of Wisdom", and The Laughing Jesus . It argues that the Jesus of the New

: Many alleged parallels between Jesus and figures like Horus or Mithras are considered by scholars to be based on selective descriptions or later Christian influence rather than pre-Christian pagan origins. Related Reading

: They argue the Gospels were never intended as eyewitness history. Instead, they were "Outer Mysteries" (spiritual allegories) designed to guide beginners toward "Inner Mysteries" or secret mystical knowledge (Gnosis).