The Messiah Before Jesus by Israel Knohl
Prof. Israel Knohl shares curious evidence for a messianic precursor to Jesus who is described as the "Suffering Servant" in recently published fragments of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Many scholars have long argued that the concept of a slain savior Messiah who rises from the dead, was alien to Judaism before Jesus. But, on the basis of hymns found at Qumran among the Dead Sea Scrolls, Knohl argues it was not, and this idea certainly predated Jesus.
Professor speculates that one generation before Jesus, a messianic leader arose in the Qumran sect who was regarded by his followers as ushering in an era of redemption and forgiveness. He was killed by Roman soldiers amidst a revolt that broke out in Jerusalem in 4 BCE. His disciples even believed that he was resurrected and rose to heaven. Many Christians might feel uneasy reading this sort of research for the first time, and frankly, Jews might as well. The book is highly suggestive and imaginative in reinterpreting our current understanding of ancient Christianity and its relationship to Judaism. One can easily disagree with Prof. Knohl's conclusions and interpretations, but the evidence must be considered, nevertheless.
Peek Inside the Book?
