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Judas Son of Simon
Library Review, March 15, 2017 review: "In Molyneux's skillful hands, the story comes alive in a new way that humanizes Judas and provides insight into the life of Jesus...Emotionally intense and intricately plotted, this provocative novel profiles Judas in unexpected ways."
Rome is waging a "culture war" against all things Jewish, seeking to wipe away Israelite identity, culture, and faith. Revolt simmers in Judea and Galilee, as common Israelites chafe under Roman rule. Conflict rages between the various Jewish parties. Plots swirl in the palaces of Pilate, Antipas, and Caiaphas, as they struggle to maintain their tenuous grip on power, worried that Jesus will lead the people to revolt against Roman rule.
The most influential and educated of Jesus’ disciples is Judas Iscariot. Israel is a thriving economic engine of wealth. Nazareth is a suburb of Galilee’s capital. Capernaum is a center of learning, taxation, and trade, on the world’s most important highway. Each chapter of Judas Son of Simon reveals new and starling surprises about Jesus, his disciples, and first-century Israel. Think you know about Judas’ death? You don’t!
Christian and Hebrew Scriptures provide the foundation for Judas Son of Simon, supplemented by the writings of Josephus, and numerous ancient and archeological sources. Join Judas, and the other disciples, on their perplexing spiritual journey. As you do, your understanding of Jesus will be transformed.
To find out more go to: https://www.amazon.com/Judas-Son-Simo...
Rome is waging a "culture war" against all things Jewish, seeking to wipe away Israelite identity, culture, and faith. Revolt simmers in Judea and Galilee, as common Israelites chafe under Roman rule. Conflict rages between the various Jewish parties. Plots swirl in the palaces of Pilate, Antipas, and Caiaphas, as they struggle to maintain their tenuous grip on power, worried that Jesus will lead the people to revolt against Roman rule.
The most influential and educated of Jesus’ disciples is Judas Iscariot. Israel is a thriving economic engine of wealth. Nazareth is a suburb of Galilee’s capital. Capernaum is a center of learning, taxation, and trade, on the world’s most important highway. Each chapter of Judas Son of Simon reveals new and starling surprises about Jesus, his disciples, and first-century Israel. Think you know about Judas’ death? You don’t!
Christian and Hebrew Scriptures provide the foundation for Judas Son of Simon, supplemented by the writings of Josephus, and numerous ancient and archeological sources. Join Judas, and the other disciples, on their perplexing spiritual journey. As you do, your understanding of Jesus will be transformed.
To find out more go to: https://www.amazon.com/Judas-Son-Simo...
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 14, 2017
6 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
About the author
Daniel Molyneux
4 books12 followersDaniel's books include: JUDAS SON OF SIMON, THE ANGEL OF ANTIOCH, AND ELIAS' PROVERBS.
His passion is to make historical events and spiritual truths come alive for the reader.
Molyneux has a Master's Degree from Austin Seminary, a Doctorate from Fuller Seminary, and did post-graduate work at Concordia Seminary. He also has a Bachelor's in Drama from Rocky Mountain College, and studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, in London.
To find out more go to: www.angelofa.com
His passion is to make historical events and spiritual truths come alive for the reader.
Molyneux has a Master's Degree from Austin Seminary, a Doctorate from Fuller Seminary, and did post-graduate work at Concordia Seminary. He also has a Bachelor's in Drama from Rocky Mountain College, and studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, in London.
To find out more go to: www.angelofa.com
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
March 24, 2017
This book covers the ministry of Jesus through the eyes of Judas, and also how Judas got to be in that position; specifically he was requested by Caiaphas to gather information on this emerging religious leader. The book has a superb background from the Jewish point of view, and paints an excellent picture of what life in Israel was like at the time. I have also written a novel about a slightly later view of this time, and I know how much research was put into this. I am less convinced about the Roman point of view, which, admittedly, is ignored most of the time, but does come to the fore when Pilate comes into the picture. The book gives a very detailed account of what Jesus did, at least in the last year or so of his life. He explains clearly why Caiaphas felt that Jesus was such a problem, and he offers the point of view that it was not Jesus himself that was the problem. That is genuinely informative and most people will not know of it. He also offers an alternative interpretation of Pilate's role. (I am less convinced of this, but perhaps I am biased because I offered a different interpretation.) So, overall, from this point of view, the book was excellent. However, there were aspects that disappointed me.
The first was the accounts of what Jesus did. This was told, almost as if by a preacher. There was no atmosphere about them. I know that is difficult, but the author elected to take up the challenge. This led to the next point. Jesus did a number of miracles, so what did the disciples do? They tended to argue about classification, e.g. whether Jesus was more like a Pharisee or an Essene. Surely when you see the impossible performed there would be a more emotional response? The next problem for me is that Jesus "explained" things to his disciples, but the explanations were more conundrums. The disciples seemingly never understood, and this is a problem because if Jesus wanted to found a religion, surely he would ensure his message was clear to those who wanted to listen. However, for me, the biggest disappointment was the thinking of Judas, especially at the end. Jesus told him he would betray him, several times. Such a "betrayal" was required by the prophesies, and if it did not happen, Jesus could not be the Messiah. If God required it, how could it be a betrayal? Even if you take the view that Judas was really evil, why would Judas believe that? He had, after all, convinced himself that Caiaphas was right, and however you interpreted it, Israel would be better off with Jesus being arrested.
Finally, while I am usually very tolerant of flawed editing, this book goes too far. When one character has her name spelled differently in the same paragraph, one questions how well the book was read. There were many examples where words were left out, and there were even some howlers. Two examples: Judas, after getting married, "was excused pubic duties". Hmmm. Anyone for "public duties"? Then, if you slap a Roman, you receive "a kick to the groan". Admittedly, these are amusing, but . . . To summarise, an ambitious undertaking with an excellent background, but the foreground needs improvement.
The first was the accounts of what Jesus did. This was told, almost as if by a preacher. There was no atmosphere about them. I know that is difficult, but the author elected to take up the challenge. This led to the next point. Jesus did a number of miracles, so what did the disciples do? They tended to argue about classification, e.g. whether Jesus was more like a Pharisee or an Essene. Surely when you see the impossible performed there would be a more emotional response? The next problem for me is that Jesus "explained" things to his disciples, but the explanations were more conundrums. The disciples seemingly never understood, and this is a problem because if Jesus wanted to found a religion, surely he would ensure his message was clear to those who wanted to listen. However, for me, the biggest disappointment was the thinking of Judas, especially at the end. Jesus told him he would betray him, several times. Such a "betrayal" was required by the prophesies, and if it did not happen, Jesus could not be the Messiah. If God required it, how could it be a betrayal? Even if you take the view that Judas was really evil, why would Judas believe that? He had, after all, convinced himself that Caiaphas was right, and however you interpreted it, Israel would be better off with Jesus being arrested.
Finally, while I am usually very tolerant of flawed editing, this book goes too far. When one character has her name spelled differently in the same paragraph, one questions how well the book was read. There were many examples where words were left out, and there were even some howlers. Two examples: Judas, after getting married, "was excused pubic duties". Hmmm. Anyone for "public duties"? Then, if you slap a Roman, you receive "a kick to the groan". Admittedly, these are amusing, but . . . To summarise, an ambitious undertaking with an excellent background, but the foreground needs improvement.
February 22, 2017
Judas Son of Simon by Daniel Molyneux is Molyneux's third book, his first being The Angel of Antioch, and his second, a companion book, Elias' Proverbs. With a master's degree from Austin Seminary; a doctorate from Fuller Seminary and studies at Condordia Seminary, Molyneux is certainly well versed in the history of the Bible. Judas, Son of Simon explores the life of Judas. Judas is born to Simon Bar-Levi and his wife, and from there grows to be a phenomenal son beyond measure. However the tide will soon change, and Judas becomes a more controversial figure, without whom, Jesus would not have been arrested and captured. This book is successfully written with clear details about the time period as well as the unceasing influence of Rome. Ultimately, this is a story told by the betrayer of Jesus, and with his voice the reader gains further understanding and clarity about Judas' struggle with God.
February 22, 2017
"It is better that one man die, than for Israel to be destroyed."
California author Daniel Molyneux has earned degrees in drama (he also studied Shakespeare at London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Art), has a master's degree from Austin Seminary, theology doctorate from Fuller Seminary in Pasadena, California, and post-graduate studies at Concordia Seminary. THE ANGEL OF ANTIOCH was his debut novel; his second book ELIAS' PROVERBS served as a mighty adjunct to the first book. Daniel's writing explores the mysteries of life and death, good and evil, sickness and healing, victory and defeat, faith and unbelief, science and supernatural miracle. In this book Daniel shares an historic review of the life of both Judas and Jesus and the political life of their time. Daniel is the pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, in Fairfield, California.
As in Daniel’s other novels JUDAS SON OF SIMON is history shared and the early stages of Christianity explored in a manner that makes them irresistibly fascinating. The Preface of this book shares much of the concept of the novel: ‘Judas Iscariot is the most hated figure in human history. And yet, the name “Judas” was revered among first-century Israelites. It and Jude are versions of the name given to Jacob’s fourth son, Judah, whose descendants became the most prominent of Israel’s twelve tribes, the tribe of King David and Jesus. Judas Maccabees was a hero of Israelite nationalism. Judas the Galilean founded the Zealot movement. Another of Jesus’ twelve disciples was named Judas. One of Jesus’ brothers was named Judas, and Jude is the name of a New Testament book. Even the term “Jew” is derived from Judah. Judas is not the only betrayer in the pages of the Bible. Jesus’ was surrounded by violence, conspiracies, cowardice, and betrayal. When he was arrested, his disciples fled and hid. Peter denied him three times. When Jesus stood trial before Pilate, where were his disciples? Only a few female relatives, Mary of Magdala, and one of the Twelve appear to have been present at his crucifixion. Simon Peter shares striking similarities with Judas. Both were important members of Jesus’ inner-circle. Peter was the closest spiritual disciple, while Judas was the group’s treasurer. Jesus said to Peter, “Get behind me Satan”. Whereas, Luke says, “Then Satan entered Judas.” There is a critical difference between the two men. Peter did not despair to the point of suicide. But Judas surrendered to the ultimate expression of guilt. Peter’s betrayal was forgiven, allowing him to become the most important leader of Jesus’ Church. If Judas had not ended his life, he too may have been restored to his place with the other apostles. Suicide frequently happens near the end of troubles. Peter lived to see the abundant harvest planted by Jesus, but Judas did not. Judas is torn between faithfulness to Jesus, and loyalty to his family and party. Plots swirl in the palaces of Pilate, Antipas, and Caiaphas, as they struggle to maintain their tenuous grip on power. In Judas Son of Simon, you will see Jesus and Roman-dominated Israel through new eyes - those of a questioning and double-minded young man torn by competing priorities and demands. Judas’ actions will surprise and disturb you, move you to tears, and rage.’
In filling out the missing components of this fine Preface, the following develops – ‘Rome is waging a "culture war" against all things Jewish, seeking to wipe away Israelite identity, culture, and faith. Revolt simmers in Judea and Galilee, as common Israelites chafe under Roman rule. Conflict rages between the various Jewish parties. Plots swirl in the palaces of Pilate, Antipas, and Caiaphas, as they struggle to maintain their tenuous grip on power, worried that Jesus will lead the people to revolt against Roman rule. The most influential and educated of Jesus' disciples is Judas Iscariot. Israel is a thriving economic engine of wealth. Nazareth is a suburb of Galilee's capital. Capernaum is a center of learning, taxation, and trade, on the world's most important highway. Each chapter of Judas Son of Simon reveals new and starling surprises about Jesus, his disciples, and first-century Israel. Christian and Hebrew Scriptures provide the foundation for Judas Son of Simon, supplemented by the writings of Josephus, and numerous ancient and archeological sources.’
Daniel’s gift for storytelling is fully unleashed here as he re-writes stories we have all learned and in doing so makes them so very much more real and tenable. Another very fine book from this young and sophisticated religious historian.
California author Daniel Molyneux has earned degrees in drama (he also studied Shakespeare at London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Art), has a master's degree from Austin Seminary, theology doctorate from Fuller Seminary in Pasadena, California, and post-graduate studies at Concordia Seminary. THE ANGEL OF ANTIOCH was his debut novel; his second book ELIAS' PROVERBS served as a mighty adjunct to the first book. Daniel's writing explores the mysteries of life and death, good and evil, sickness and healing, victory and defeat, faith and unbelief, science and supernatural miracle. In this book Daniel shares an historic review of the life of both Judas and Jesus and the political life of their time. Daniel is the pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, in Fairfield, California.
As in Daniel’s other novels JUDAS SON OF SIMON is history shared and the early stages of Christianity explored in a manner that makes them irresistibly fascinating. The Preface of this book shares much of the concept of the novel: ‘Judas Iscariot is the most hated figure in human history. And yet, the name “Judas” was revered among first-century Israelites. It and Jude are versions of the name given to Jacob’s fourth son, Judah, whose descendants became the most prominent of Israel’s twelve tribes, the tribe of King David and Jesus. Judas Maccabees was a hero of Israelite nationalism. Judas the Galilean founded the Zealot movement. Another of Jesus’ twelve disciples was named Judas. One of Jesus’ brothers was named Judas, and Jude is the name of a New Testament book. Even the term “Jew” is derived from Judah. Judas is not the only betrayer in the pages of the Bible. Jesus’ was surrounded by violence, conspiracies, cowardice, and betrayal. When he was arrested, his disciples fled and hid. Peter denied him three times. When Jesus stood trial before Pilate, where were his disciples? Only a few female relatives, Mary of Magdala, and one of the Twelve appear to have been present at his crucifixion. Simon Peter shares striking similarities with Judas. Both were important members of Jesus’ inner-circle. Peter was the closest spiritual disciple, while Judas was the group’s treasurer. Jesus said to Peter, “Get behind me Satan”. Whereas, Luke says, “Then Satan entered Judas.” There is a critical difference between the two men. Peter did not despair to the point of suicide. But Judas surrendered to the ultimate expression of guilt. Peter’s betrayal was forgiven, allowing him to become the most important leader of Jesus’ Church. If Judas had not ended his life, he too may have been restored to his place with the other apostles. Suicide frequently happens near the end of troubles. Peter lived to see the abundant harvest planted by Jesus, but Judas did not. Judas is torn between faithfulness to Jesus, and loyalty to his family and party. Plots swirl in the palaces of Pilate, Antipas, and Caiaphas, as they struggle to maintain their tenuous grip on power. In Judas Son of Simon, you will see Jesus and Roman-dominated Israel through new eyes - those of a questioning and double-minded young man torn by competing priorities and demands. Judas’ actions will surprise and disturb you, move you to tears, and rage.’
In filling out the missing components of this fine Preface, the following develops – ‘Rome is waging a "culture war" against all things Jewish, seeking to wipe away Israelite identity, culture, and faith. Revolt simmers in Judea and Galilee, as common Israelites chafe under Roman rule. Conflict rages between the various Jewish parties. Plots swirl in the palaces of Pilate, Antipas, and Caiaphas, as they struggle to maintain their tenuous grip on power, worried that Jesus will lead the people to revolt against Roman rule. The most influential and educated of Jesus' disciples is Judas Iscariot. Israel is a thriving economic engine of wealth. Nazareth is a suburb of Galilee's capital. Capernaum is a center of learning, taxation, and trade, on the world's most important highway. Each chapter of Judas Son of Simon reveals new and starling surprises about Jesus, his disciples, and first-century Israel. Christian and Hebrew Scriptures provide the foundation for Judas Son of Simon, supplemented by the writings of Josephus, and numerous ancient and archeological sources.’
Daniel’s gift for storytelling is fully unleashed here as he re-writes stories we have all learned and in doing so makes them so very much more real and tenable. Another very fine book from this young and sophisticated religious historian.
February 24, 2017
‘It is better that one man die, than Israel to be destroyed’
A rather meticulous question, but finding the appropriate answer to it requires for more than just the well-being of the majority, it needs to explore the inner sections of yourself and the outcome: what exactly are you thinking in sacrificing one to save hundreds?
This book does a good job in describing some key details of what we known and makes it more accessible for those who still don’t know a thing about history and, well Jesus. To explore and know more about the life of the one who betrayed the savior and sold him. But above all the re-told of this history, I have to give huge credit to the author and the way he writes, there are some sophisticated details here and there which I think it’s his bench mark and how he managed to express his vision of the history, make it clear and easy for everyone, all at the same time while giving a proper homage to the source material
A rather meticulous question, but finding the appropriate answer to it requires for more than just the well-being of the majority, it needs to explore the inner sections of yourself and the outcome: what exactly are you thinking in sacrificing one to save hundreds?
This book does a good job in describing some key details of what we known and makes it more accessible for those who still don’t know a thing about history and, well Jesus. To explore and know more about the life of the one who betrayed the savior and sold him. But above all the re-told of this history, I have to give huge credit to the author and the way he writes, there are some sophisticated details here and there which I think it’s his bench mark and how he managed to express his vision of the history, make it clear and easy for everyone, all at the same time while giving a proper homage to the source material
October 6, 2017
Judas Son of Simon by Daniel Molyneux is by far a great historical novel. The tale takes a deeper look into what, how, why Judas got to where he did. A better understanding of it came from reading this book. There are a lot of historical facts woven throughout the pages. Bringing the events to life. Faith, betrayal, hatred, violence, hope, and forgiveness are found here, as the main themes. The book needs some good proofreading. Other than that the plot was entertaining and enticed me to the characters' journey. Overall, I enjoyed reading this book, and I recommend it to readers worldwide. Forgiveness is welcome to all you seek it.
I received this copy from the publisher. This, is my voluntary review.
I received this copy from the publisher. This, is my voluntary review.
August 30, 2017
Good story, poorly edited.
March 23, 2017
Judas Son of Simon is a third book in the series written by Daniel Molyneux. What I love about this book is how the author wrote the book: the book is written in very detailed and comprehensive way and the author tried to give his best in order to present us the political and the economic situation of Israel in the first century. Also I like how Molyneaux tried to remove the veil of hatred that was put around the name of Judas hence Iscariot’s betrayal of Jesus.
Judas Iscariot is, by many people perceived as one of the worst persons in the entire human history. He betrayed Jesus, who is supposed to be our savior and because of that he has done something that cannot be forgiven. By writing a book about a character of Judas Iscariot and by trying to ‘decipher’ the veil of mystery around him Molyneux tried to say to us: “Hey, Judas did what he did because of these and these events’’ and I respect that. But regardless of trying to present Iscariot as “not being that bad’’, Molyneux fails to comprehend and to touch the spiritual importance of his betrayal and instead merely deals with the “inner tip of the iceberg.’’ Detailed, nicely written, engaging, but lacks the necessary depth. For that I give it 4/5 stars.
Judas Iscariot is, by many people perceived as one of the worst persons in the entire human history. He betrayed Jesus, who is supposed to be our savior and because of that he has done something that cannot be forgiven. By writing a book about a character of Judas Iscariot and by trying to ‘decipher’ the veil of mystery around him Molyneux tried to say to us: “Hey, Judas did what he did because of these and these events’’ and I respect that. But regardless of trying to present Iscariot as “not being that bad’’, Molyneux fails to comprehend and to touch the spiritual importance of his betrayal and instead merely deals with the “inner tip of the iceberg.’’ Detailed, nicely written, engaging, but lacks the necessary depth. For that I give it 4/5 stars.
March 29, 2017
Daniel Molyneux opens up the history behind the detested disciple of Jesus and brings to life Judas son of Simon. He was better known as Judas Iscariot to those who study the Bible. Like some men, he did great things but was only remembered for the bad decisions he made.
The story is written as a letter to his son, Joshua, so he can understand the true accounts that happened instead of the gossip that surrounded Judas and his death. Then it gives what could have been his final moments before his death.
Molyneux expressed his desire to show true forgiveness to those who purposely hurt and harm others through the life of Judas. By doing that he made the characters of the Bible to come alive, even in a fictional way with history backing up his story. Judas was able to die in peace because of the forgiveness he received.
The story is written as a letter to his son, Joshua, so he can understand the true accounts that happened instead of the gossip that surrounded Judas and his death. Then it gives what could have been his final moments before his death.
Molyneux expressed his desire to show true forgiveness to those who purposely hurt and harm others through the life of Judas. By doing that he made the characters of the Bible to come alive, even in a fictional way with history backing up his story. Judas was able to die in peace because of the forgiveness he received.
April 18, 2017
This is a book that will appeal to anyone who is interested in the historical aspect of the life of Jesus Christ, or anyone interested in the Christian religion. It tells the story of Jesus’s short ministry through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. We only know Judas as being the betrayer, the disciple whose treacherous kiss identified Jesus to the Romans as he prayed in the Garden Of Gethsemane. This book will open your eyes as it delves behind the myth. Daniel Molyneux has used Christian and Hebrew scriptures, along with the ancient writings of the historian Josephus, to provide the basis of this story. I reached the end with a new understanding of, and sympathy for, Judas.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews