Do Stories About Jesus in the New Testament Resemble Ancient Mythology?

Many stories throughout ancient literature and mythologies share striking similarities. This isn't by coincidence but a reflection of the cultural and oral storytelling traditions of the time. When authors heard of these archetypal figures, it was natural to draw comparisons. These stories were often part of the oral tradition, requiring vivid and powerful descriptions to make heroes, villains, and unique characters recognizable.

The Role of the Evangelists

The Gospels were written as accounts of Jesus' life, undoubtedly infused with theological points. However, it's important to consider whether the underlying content reflects true and accurate events. Most scholars believe that the early Church didn't need to mimic ancient mythologies, given the supernatural events like exorcisms, healings, and prophetic teachings that were central to the early Christian community.

Oral Stories and Stereotyping

Oral stories often used stereotypes to make characters and scenarios unmistakable. The good guy and the bad guy were usually signaled early in the narrative. For modern readers, this can sometimes make it hard to spot these comparisons, as modern storytelling styles differ. Recognizing these similarities can be enlightening, particularly when viewing modern media.

The Synoptic Gospels and the Mystery School of Isho the Good

Many believe the authors of the Synoptic Gospels were commissioned to write a sacred biography for a figure named Isho the Good, a mysterious 1st century BCE religious leader.

Isiaci and other Mythical Figures

The story and character of Isho closely resemble the myths of other popular soteriological figures such as Isiaci, Cybele, Attis, Zeus/Dionysus, Apollo, Orion, Isis/Osiris, Demeter and Persephone, the Eleusinian Mysteries, Poseidon, Mithra, Asclepius, and Serapis. Similarities can be found in their stories, beliefs, and practices.

Hebrew Origins and Religious Evolution

During the period from around the middle of the last millennium BC to the middle of the fifth century AD, a significant shift in religious history occurred. The diversity of religions shifted towards a plurality of religions. The name Ishi or Iesous originates from the Hebrew name for Adam in Genesis, signifying a figure who possessed the good qualities of Adam. The initiates of Isho believed he was the Second Son of God, sent to redeem the Jewish people from the original sin of Adam and Eve.

Aligning with Jewish Cosmology

Unlike other soteriological figures, there was no concept of a world religion or the need to convert Gentiles. Initiates of the Isho cult were sworn to secrecy and could be severely punished for sharing the mysteries with non-Jews. His initiates believed he was a personal savior, not a world teacher. Rituals like the Beatitudes, baptism, and blood sacrifices were seen as celestial events rather than earthly ones.

Early Christian Mysteries and Practices

The rituals of Isho's cult included reenacting events of his blood sacrifice, hearing and reciting Jewish Orphic hymns, having an epiphany, being baptized, and celebrating his resurrection with a Eucharistic love feast. Secrecy was paramount, with initiates using elaborate systems to identify each other, including handshakes and secret passwords.

The Influence of Paul on Early Christianity

While much of the credit is attributed to Paul's conversion and epistles, there is evidence that suggests his conversion was part of a broader mystery tradition. Paul's primary goal was to establish local Jewish churches within the Eurafrasian realm, focusing initially on specifying and preserving the details of Christianity in these regions.

The similarities between the figures and stories of Jesus and the early mythological figures highlight the rich tapestry of religious influences on early Christianity. Understanding these parallels can provide a richer context for interpreting the Gospels and the development of early Christian thought.