Pagan Christs

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Gutenberg ID

—

Title

Pagan Christs

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

John M. Robertson offers a critical examination of religious parallels, arguing that the Christian narrative of the crucified savior evolved from ancient pagan mystery-dramas rooted in human sacrifice. This text explores shared motifs across cultures, challenging traditional theological views with a rationalist perspective on the origins of faith.

Summary up to 500 words

In *Pagan Christs*, John M. Robertson presents a sweeping critique of Christian origins, arguing that the story of Jesus is not a unique historical event but a myth derived from widespread ancient traditions. Robertson posits that early human beliefs evolved from fear and reason, progressing through stages where deities were viewed as teachers of civilization and lawgivers. He contends that the specific details of the Passion story—the agony, betrayal, crucifixion, and resurrection—were originally a mystery-drama transcribed from a Palestinian rite of annual human sacrifice, where the victim was 'Jesus the Son of the Father.' The author systematically compares Christianity with other religious systems, including Mithraism, Buddhism, and ancient American cults. He highlights the universality of the 'sacrificed saviour-god' motif, noting parallels in the deaths of Osiris, Adonis, and the Buddha. Robertson asserts that the concept of the 'Logos' or divine Word was borrowed from Greek philosophy and Hindu mythology, rather than being a unique Jewish revelation. He further analyzes the 'Teaching God' archetype, showing how deities like Oannes and Thoth were credited with bringing agriculture, laws, and arts to humanity, a role later attributed to Jesus. Throughout the text, Robertson engages with contemporary critics and theologians, accusing them of ignoring historical evidence and relying on dialectic vessels that lack retention. He dismisses the 'army of martyrs' as insignificant compared to the millions of victims of human sacrifice in pre-Christian history. The book concludes that the evolution of religion is a natural process, and that the Christian creed is merely a sophisticated adaptation of older, savage cults. Robertson's tone is assertive and rationalistic, aiming to strip away theological dogma to reveal the anthropological and sociological roots of faith.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Religion
• Philosophy