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Jesus: A New Vision
Whitley Strieber is a literary legend, and A New Vision is the most provocative book of his career. It is intended for the spiritual but not religious who want to understand and use the teachings of Jesus in their lives. For the religious, it offers rich insight into the man and the teachings behind the doctrine.As the author of such influential books as Warday, Nature’s End, Communion and Superstorm, Mr. Strieber ranks among the cultural forces of our A New Vision is at once a magisterial work of scholarship and a completely new approach to the meaning and message of Jesus. It comes at a time when the western world is divided between a declining number of believers in Christian doctrine and an ever-increasing number of people who feel that Jesus was nothing more than a religious zealot who was executed for the crime of sedition. What if neither of these approaches is right? What if Jesus really did perform miracles, including the resurrection, but that this says not that he was a deity, but that he was exercising human powers which are buried within us all, and which we do not suspect are there?By exploring the life of Jesus and his teachings in an entirely new way, A New Vision sheds fresh light on the meaning and power of his parables, explores the mysteries of the gospels of Thomas and Mary with fresh insight, and explains why, as Strieber puts it, he “committed suicide by crucifixion.” It also addresses the questions that continue to surround the Shroud of Turin, exploring both the science that concluded that it was a medieval forgery and the more recent studies that have shown it to be something very different. It explores what happened after Jesus’s death that led to the ultra-violence that destroyed the entire polytheistic culture of the Roman Empire, and explains why this greatest of all human revolutions happened, relating it to the pandemics and uncontrollable migrations that resulted from a climate change event that began around 150 A.D. and led to extraordinary disruptions that the Romans, knowing nothing of solar variability, blamed on their gods. In its sweep and its drama, there has never been another book like A New Vision."Whitley Strieber's take on Jesus is thought-provoking and surprising. This is an important investigation, filled with new insights. Highly recommended." Graham Hancock, author of Fingerprints of the Gods "Very wise, and satisfying for the contemporary mind." Toby Johnson, author of Finding Your Own True What I Learned from Joseph Campbell
279 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 15, 2021
293 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
About the author
Whitley Strieber
152 books1,252 followersAmerican writer best known for his novels The Wolfen,The Hunger and Warday and for Communion, a non-fiction description of his experiences with apparent alien contact. He has recently made significant advances in understanding this phenomenon, and has published his new discoveries in Solving the Communion Enigma.
Strieber also co-authored The Coming Global Superstorm with Art Bell, which inspired the blockbuster film about sudden climate change, The Day After Tomorrow.
His book The Afterlife Revolution written with his deceased wife Anne, is a record of what is considered to be one of the most powerful instances of afterlife communication ever recorded.
Strieber also co-authored The Coming Global Superstorm with Art Bell, which inspired the blockbuster film about sudden climate change, The Day After Tomorrow.
His book The Afterlife Revolution written with his deceased wife Anne, is a record of what is considered to be one of the most powerful instances of afterlife communication ever recorded.
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February 11, 2021
Yes! Yes! Yes!
As far as a “new vision” of Jesus, I think Whitley is right on the money with this one. From his assertion that Jesus was most likely human, not divine, to the strange event involving the Shroud of Turin which has been determined to be at least 2,000 years old and not from the 1200/1300's as was believed, to his further assertion that Yeshua (Jesus) was trying to teach us that we were far more than we believed, this is a wonderful book for renewing one’s faith not only in the Creator and in the man, Yeshua, himself, but in the human species.
Of course there are going to be many, such as Wikipedia who insist that, for instance, the Shroud of Turin was carbon 14 dated to the mid- 1200s (and allegedly displayed the face of the last Grand Master of the Knights Templar, Jacques de Molay, and not that of Jesus). However, there has since been an updated test (in 2019) which suggests that the initial (and most recent) tests of the age of the Shroud place it back much further in time than 700/800 years ago, in fact, as far back as the time of Jesus.
In Jesus: A New Vision, Whitley brings up several points even I hadn’t considered, which may further explicate the truth of just what happened 2,000 years ago as well as shed much more needed light on who was truly behind the authorship or ‘inspiration’ of the bible as a whole and what it means for us...then AND now. Especially now.
After all the research I’ve done both in and outside the bible, having read it from cover to cover a multitude of times as well as taught ADULTS from its pages for over 20 years, I have come to the conclusion that not only is the bible, itself, NOT inspired by the True Creator OR written by whom we have been told it was/is, but that 1) the so-called ‘god’ of the Old Testament was not God as we would wish that he were, nor 2) was Jesus the Son of God as we’ve been told by the Catholic and other churches, nor even a ‘god’ as we believe that terminology to imply. Jesus was a human being who – while he DID (according to the data) exist, much of what is ‘written’ in the New Testament gospels and other books is so convoluted and conflicting as to be laughable. Certainly not convincing, if one commits her/himself to searching out the unpreconceived truth on their own.
Oftentimes, our misconceptions and misperceptions must be torn away – no matter how painful that might be – so that the stark contrast of the reality is more apparent and a solid understanding can be built from the bedrock of truth.
How can anyone continue to believe in either of these entities when the writings that are said to support their existence are so significantly flawed? The bottom line for me, was that it was difficult to continue to have ‘faith’ in either the True Creator or in Jesus, with such conflicting ideas continuing to be promulgated by organized Christian religion.
Don’t get me wrong: I definitely believe in a Creator AND that Jesus really did exist. And so does Whitley, as he so nicely conveys in this amazing book.
In fact, as far as Jesus is concerned, I believe – as Whitley also implied – that Jesus was, while a human being, a human being with great powers and potentialities...just as are we, which is what he told us in John 14:12 that we could do things such as he did, and in fact, even greater. And just an aside: the words of Jesus as portrayed in the so-called New Testament or Christian Greek Scriptures of the Bible, in particular, may be some of the ONLY TRUE words in the entire bible, both Old and New Testaments. Please do the research before you lash out about this. It’s mind-blowing.
Bottom line – and something the archons and the powers that are quickly passing away are beginning to realize: they cannot prevent Humanity from awakening and realizing the truth regarding what they’ve done to hide the truth from us – especially in regard to our true capabilities.
Obviously, this is an extremely controversial topic for many. However, the majority of those who might have a problem with the contention that Jesus was actually human and not God or even a god, per se, may change their minds when truths about the Church hit the proverbial fan sometime over the next few months.
Wake up, people. It’s time to see the truth and recognize that you are FAR more than you’ve been led to believe, per Yeshua.
As far as a “new vision” of Jesus, I think Whitley is right on the money with this one. From his assertion that Jesus was most likely human, not divine, to the strange event involving the Shroud of Turin which has been determined to be at least 2,000 years old and not from the 1200/1300's as was believed, to his further assertion that Yeshua (Jesus) was trying to teach us that we were far more than we believed, this is a wonderful book for renewing one’s faith not only in the Creator and in the man, Yeshua, himself, but in the human species.
Of course there are going to be many, such as Wikipedia who insist that, for instance, the Shroud of Turin was carbon 14 dated to the mid- 1200s (and allegedly displayed the face of the last Grand Master of the Knights Templar, Jacques de Molay, and not that of Jesus). However, there has since been an updated test (in 2019) which suggests that the initial (and most recent) tests of the age of the Shroud place it back much further in time than 700/800 years ago, in fact, as far back as the time of Jesus.
In Jesus: A New Vision, Whitley brings up several points even I hadn’t considered, which may further explicate the truth of just what happened 2,000 years ago as well as shed much more needed light on who was truly behind the authorship or ‘inspiration’ of the bible as a whole and what it means for us...then AND now. Especially now.
After all the research I’ve done both in and outside the bible, having read it from cover to cover a multitude of times as well as taught ADULTS from its pages for over 20 years, I have come to the conclusion that not only is the bible, itself, NOT inspired by the True Creator OR written by whom we have been told it was/is, but that 1) the so-called ‘god’ of the Old Testament was not God as we would wish that he were, nor 2) was Jesus the Son of God as we’ve been told by the Catholic and other churches, nor even a ‘god’ as we believe that terminology to imply. Jesus was a human being who – while he DID (according to the data) exist, much of what is ‘written’ in the New Testament gospels and other books is so convoluted and conflicting as to be laughable. Certainly not convincing, if one commits her/himself to searching out the unpreconceived truth on their own.
Oftentimes, our misconceptions and misperceptions must be torn away – no matter how painful that might be – so that the stark contrast of the reality is more apparent and a solid understanding can be built from the bedrock of truth.
How can anyone continue to believe in either of these entities when the writings that are said to support their existence are so significantly flawed? The bottom line for me, was that it was difficult to continue to have ‘faith’ in either the True Creator or in Jesus, with such conflicting ideas continuing to be promulgated by organized Christian religion.
Don’t get me wrong: I definitely believe in a Creator AND that Jesus really did exist. And so does Whitley, as he so nicely conveys in this amazing book.
In fact, as far as Jesus is concerned, I believe – as Whitley also implied – that Jesus was, while a human being, a human being with great powers and potentialities...just as are we, which is what he told us in John 14:12 that we could do things such as he did, and in fact, even greater. And just an aside: the words of Jesus as portrayed in the so-called New Testament or Christian Greek Scriptures of the Bible, in particular, may be some of the ONLY TRUE words in the entire bible, both Old and New Testaments. Please do the research before you lash out about this. It’s mind-blowing.
Bottom line – and something the archons and the powers that are quickly passing away are beginning to realize: they cannot prevent Humanity from awakening and realizing the truth regarding what they’ve done to hide the truth from us – especially in regard to our true capabilities.
Obviously, this is an extremely controversial topic for many. However, the majority of those who might have a problem with the contention that Jesus was actually human and not God or even a god, per se, may change their minds when truths about the Church hit the proverbial fan sometime over the next few months.
Wake up, people. It’s time to see the truth and recognize that you are FAR more than you’ve been led to believe, per Yeshua.
January 17, 2021
Where is the new vision?
His narration of the origins of christianity, it symbolism and influences is really good, and I learned a few new interesting factoids by way of his interpretations... but I feel his whole new vision is just "the miracles of Jesus could have happened because we live in a world/universe where such things are possible. Oh yeah, and the Beatitudes." That's it?
His narration of the origins of christianity, it symbolism and influences is really good, and I learned a few new interesting factoids by way of his interpretations... but I feel his whole new vision is just "the miracles of Jesus could have happened because we live in a world/universe where such things are possible. Oh yeah, and the Beatitudes." That's it?
August 27, 2021
Well into the process of researching a work of my own what I am calling “Prototype for Christianity” about a pre-Christian monastic community in Alexandria in Egypt, I was surprised to happen upon the title Jesus, A New Vision, by, of all people, Whitely Strieber, a American writer I had last read decades ago, known then for horror novels and his equally chilling, for me, non-fiction work, Communion, about his alleged encounters with non-human entities whom I will always remember as the little gray guys. This unorthodox mix of interests of his made me just curious enough about what Strieber might have to say about Jesus that I looked up the title on Amazon, where the recent publication date (January 2021), reasonable Kindle price, and ample number of reviews induced me to risk buying a book I would not finish reading.
I was not disappointed. As someone who has spent considerable time on opposite sides of the fence of traditional Christianity and found the grazing in either pasture less than fulfilling, I was amazed, time after time, by the many insights, spiritual and historical, Strieber seeded throughout this book. Not that he provides all the answers or claims that the Gospels do either. Take this quote, for instance: “The Gospel of Thomas reveals the real Jesus in his truth, I think, as a teacher so courageous and so intent on challenging his students that he will deny his own teachings in order to make them think for themselves.”
He presents well-known gems of universal wisdom with startling freshness: “Knowing oneself is accepting oneself, including the parts that we don’t like. If you long to take what another has, for example, you certainly don’t have to do it, but on the Jesus path, you do have to accept that you want to.” Maybe it is just me, but that line made me shrink less from the shadowy parts of my own image in the mirror.
He tosses out some daring conclusions, normally well-founded, that I think will stick to my spiritual ribs: “His [Jesus’s] instruction that, if we understand his way, we will not “taste death” does not mean that the body won’t die, but that its inevitable end will become part of what we accept always and in every moment, not something that we assume is somewhere far off in an indistinct future. I don’t think that he rose from the dead so much as was able to project into the physical world what we all become after death.”
On the other hand, he does make some tantalizing assertions that he then does not follow through with: “He [Jesus] was also helped by a group of people who are almost invisible in the gospels, but not quite. They must have been incredibly learned. In fact, they must have known and understood the secret of death itself, and thus how to surmount it.” Toward the end of the book, he comments further: “Perhaps if we could learn more about that secret band who seems to have been behind his passion and resurrection, and probably his whole life, that would help, but at the present time there appears to be no way to do that.” Pardon the bit of self-promotion, but I am hoping my work, mentioned at the start of this review, will help to identify this “secret band” more precisely.
There is a lot more that is noteworthy in Whitely Strieber’s interpretation of the life of Jesus, but this and other introductory material available should be enough to give the prospective reader a taste for or against (the “true believer” may find much of the book wrongheaded) the viewpoint presented. As for me, I remain amazed that I am writing such a ringing endorsement of a book about Jesus written by Whitely Strieber!
I was not disappointed. As someone who has spent considerable time on opposite sides of the fence of traditional Christianity and found the grazing in either pasture less than fulfilling, I was amazed, time after time, by the many insights, spiritual and historical, Strieber seeded throughout this book. Not that he provides all the answers or claims that the Gospels do either. Take this quote, for instance: “The Gospel of Thomas reveals the real Jesus in his truth, I think, as a teacher so courageous and so intent on challenging his students that he will deny his own teachings in order to make them think for themselves.”
He presents well-known gems of universal wisdom with startling freshness: “Knowing oneself is accepting oneself, including the parts that we don’t like. If you long to take what another has, for example, you certainly don’t have to do it, but on the Jesus path, you do have to accept that you want to.” Maybe it is just me, but that line made me shrink less from the shadowy parts of my own image in the mirror.
He tosses out some daring conclusions, normally well-founded, that I think will stick to my spiritual ribs: “His [Jesus’s] instruction that, if we understand his way, we will not “taste death” does not mean that the body won’t die, but that its inevitable end will become part of what we accept always and in every moment, not something that we assume is somewhere far off in an indistinct future. I don’t think that he rose from the dead so much as was able to project into the physical world what we all become after death.”
On the other hand, he does make some tantalizing assertions that he then does not follow through with: “He [Jesus] was also helped by a group of people who are almost invisible in the gospels, but not quite. They must have been incredibly learned. In fact, they must have known and understood the secret of death itself, and thus how to surmount it.” Toward the end of the book, he comments further: “Perhaps if we could learn more about that secret band who seems to have been behind his passion and resurrection, and probably his whole life, that would help, but at the present time there appears to be no way to do that.” Pardon the bit of self-promotion, but I am hoping my work, mentioned at the start of this review, will help to identify this “secret band” more precisely.
There is a lot more that is noteworthy in Whitely Strieber’s interpretation of the life of Jesus, but this and other introductory material available should be enough to give the prospective reader a taste for or against (the “true believer” may find much of the book wrongheaded) the viewpoint presented. As for me, I remain amazed that I am writing such a ringing endorsement of a book about Jesus written by Whitely Strieber!
January 16, 2021
This book is easy enough to read, given all of the religious and historical detail and terminology, and is great if you are looking for history of primarily the first several centuries after Jesus walked the earth. How one feels about this book will likely have a lot to do with your worldview, faith values, and context going in. For that reason I would not recommend it, and labored to finish it. When I agreed to preview the book, courtesy of Netgalley, in return for an objective review without commitment it was a little misleading. The promotional paragraph read that the author would reveal Jesus in "a new vision that neither asserts divinity nor dismisses him as an entirely secular phenomenon". Now that I read that again, I see where I was the one that erred as it clearly says the author had no intent to assert Jesus' divinity. Yet, in my mind I was expecting a more objective approach. That was settled in the first several pages where statements are made such as "Jesus was not a god", "his miracles were not supernatural", "he intentionally goaded the Romans into killing him". As a Christian who has a trusting relationship with Jesus, it is likely pretty obvious - as I do believe Jesus was 100% God AND 100% man, that his miracles would not be called miracles if they could be explained away with natural science or logic, and that he was obedient unto death but in his humanity hoped for another way as he travailed over that very question in the garden of Gethsemane. Streiber also calls faith a 'confident yearning toward enlightenment' where I ascribe to the biblical definition that it is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. There is lot of valuable history later in the book about the persecution of Christians during governmental changes in leadership in Rome and a lot of time spent on the Shroud of Turin. "Not only the condition of the Shroud suggests that (the resurrection) happened, but also the actions of Jesus after he emerged from the tomb." Most Christians do not hang their faith on the authenticity of the Shroud, but it may strengthen the readers faith to see how it was so protected over time and to know that what it reveals does show that something unexplainable happened to whomever it covered. I believe one of the statements the author and I fully agree to is the last one of the book. "Belief or faith or none, it does not matter: Jesus is there."
February 20, 2021
Jesus: A New Vision
makes a bold statement as to who the historical Jesus was and what happened to him. For me, it was a revelation. I expect most followers of Mr. Strieber’s work will find it so. If, however, you have conventional views about Jesus and a traditional religious belief, you probably won’t like it. But if you are not so predisposed and can come to the subject with an open mind regarding all things spiritual or religious, you may be rewarded with insight.
LOOKING FOR THE HISTORICAL JESUS
This book is an examination of Jesus of Nazareth’s life as revealed in the canonical gospels, in some non-canonical gospels, and in historical, secular writings. That life revealed is also evaluated in the light of research done on the Shroud of Turin.
In trying to find the historical Jesus in ancient writings, Mr. Strieber looks much to the Infancy and Sayings gospels of Thomas. These, when stripped of their miraculous aspects, reveal an intelligent child struggling with special abilities. He grows into a young man who becomes enlightened, and fervent, from accepting those abilities. There are implications here of Jesus maybe being, as a human, more than just a carpenter’s son. Mr. Strieber explores this possibility and the case for it.
In examining Jesus’ life, Mr. Strieber delves into the miracle-working aspect. His thoughts reflect the experiences of his own extraordinary life that he has recounted in other works (e.g., The Super Natural). Pushing past the miraculous, though, he looks for the core reality of Jesus’ teachings, and finds it in the parables and the Beatitudes. His expounding on these resonated with me and made me want to read the gospels of Thomas and of Mary.
The gospel of Mary (likely, Mary Magdalene) is another prime source for Mr. Strieber. This gospel provides the feminine voice to Jesus’ ministry, partly in the way it’s expressed in The DaVinci Code. But there is also a deeper aspect, examined here more believably than in Dan Brown’s story.
REVIEWING EVENTS AND A REMARKABLE ARTIFACT
Of course, Mr. Strieber also examines the events of the Passion. His take on it is very compelling and includes the suggestion of a secretive group that aided Jesus during that time (and probably for all his adult life). I have always wondered about the apparent prior arrangements made for Jesus in securing a donkey (or colt) to enter Jerusalem, about who provided the room for last supper, why Joseph of Arimathea offered his tomb, who was the young man who fled Gethsemane, etc. Perhaps all this was the work of a stealthy group with an agenda.
Chapters Eleven and Twelve review the resurrection in light of the evidence provided by research on the Shroud of Turin. Though I was familiar with the shroud and the findings from scientific study of it (re: Report On The Shroud of Turin by Dr. John H. Heller), I found this part the most revelatory. The application of Mr. Strieber’s insights (found in his other works such as The Afterlife Revolution, The Super Natural, and The Key) made this book an “of course!” moment for me. It reconciled the Jesus of my religious upbringing with my subsequent studies and life experiences. It may not be the same for you, but as I said, keep an open mind.
The last chapters are Mr. Strieber’s recounting of history from the days of the early church and St. Paul’s ministry, through times of famine and plague in the Roman Empire, leading to the empire’s adoption of Christianity by Constantine. This material is also revelatory in Mr. Strieber’s interpretation of the effects of several plague pandemics on Rome and why Constantine had to abandon the pagan gods. As far as I can tell, his interpretation is sound and provides a solid foundation to understand how Christianity and Western Civilization came to be what they are.
MY LIKES AND ISSUES
I like the core teaching of Jesus that Mr. Strieber recovers from the parables and Beatitudes. It centers on “know thyself” and strikes me as a spirituality that is core to many religious traditions (e.g., Buddhism, Daoism, the Greek Oracle at Delphi). I think one can find wisdom and inner strength in this. As expressed in this book, it says that what Jesus was, so we are, if we can just realize it.
Jesus: A New Vision has several pages of bibliography to help readers go deeper into this material (such as the Turin Shroud). I wish there was also some footnotes to support some of Mr. Strieber’s scientific and historical statements, such as when he talks about the Mediterranean Basin climate becoming drier, or the North Atlantic Oscillation changing, or solar output reducing, or the Iceland volcano going off. These facts are important to his arguments, which would be bolstered with direct references.
Mr. Strieber does speak a lot about climate change in this book and how it was instrumental in driving conditions in the Roman world. And he notes that it is happening today and even more so. That’s basically true, I believe. Data does indicate a grand solar minimum (reduced sun activity) in the last century or so of the Roman Empire’s existence. The same is happening today, though with the complication of the geoengineering going on over our heads every day.
I see the same issue with his mentions of pandemics. His point is that Rome suffered them just as we do, and they influence the course of history. I agree as a general principle, but I also believe the current 2020 “pandemic” to be a hoax that is a vehicle for taking the world into a new and darker Dark Age. Mr. Strieber may not agree, but maybe there’s another parallel here. If Jesus’ teachings gave the common people a foundation for hope in the face of first century Imperial tyranny, perhaps its reemergence can help us deal with today’s version.
HELPFUL FOR OPEN-MINDED SEEKERS OF TRUTH
I see Jesus: A New Vision as a book providing insight to seekers for truth in history and in spirituality. It is a culmination, I think, of what Mr. Strieber has learned from his extraordinary life experiences (re: Communion). His other two recent books also support it in theme and in truths revealed. These books are, A New World, and The Afterlife Revolution. Also, his older book, The Key, is related. All have been helpful and inspirational for me.
While I rate this book highly for the clarity of its presentation of difficult material and the perspective it takes on the life of Jesus, I say again that it’s not for the fundamentally organized religious, who are not likely to read it, anyway.
For those seekers, however, who look to base their knowledge of life, history, and spirituality on evidence considered in the light of their own experiences, Jesus: A New Vision will be an inspiration and a help. Even a blessing.
LOOKING FOR THE HISTORICAL JESUS
This book is an examination of Jesus of Nazareth’s life as revealed in the canonical gospels, in some non-canonical gospels, and in historical, secular writings. That life revealed is also evaluated in the light of research done on the Shroud of Turin.
In trying to find the historical Jesus in ancient writings, Mr. Strieber looks much to the Infancy and Sayings gospels of Thomas. These, when stripped of their miraculous aspects, reveal an intelligent child struggling with special abilities. He grows into a young man who becomes enlightened, and fervent, from accepting those abilities. There are implications here of Jesus maybe being, as a human, more than just a carpenter’s son. Mr. Strieber explores this possibility and the case for it.
In examining Jesus’ life, Mr. Strieber delves into the miracle-working aspect. His thoughts reflect the experiences of his own extraordinary life that he has recounted in other works (e.g., The Super Natural). Pushing past the miraculous, though, he looks for the core reality of Jesus’ teachings, and finds it in the parables and the Beatitudes. His expounding on these resonated with me and made me want to read the gospels of Thomas and of Mary.
The gospel of Mary (likely, Mary Magdalene) is another prime source for Mr. Strieber. This gospel provides the feminine voice to Jesus’ ministry, partly in the way it’s expressed in The DaVinci Code. But there is also a deeper aspect, examined here more believably than in Dan Brown’s story.
REVIEWING EVENTS AND A REMARKABLE ARTIFACT
Of course, Mr. Strieber also examines the events of the Passion. His take on it is very compelling and includes the suggestion of a secretive group that aided Jesus during that time (and probably for all his adult life). I have always wondered about the apparent prior arrangements made for Jesus in securing a donkey (or colt) to enter Jerusalem, about who provided the room for last supper, why Joseph of Arimathea offered his tomb, who was the young man who fled Gethsemane, etc. Perhaps all this was the work of a stealthy group with an agenda.
Chapters Eleven and Twelve review the resurrection in light of the evidence provided by research on the Shroud of Turin. Though I was familiar with the shroud and the findings from scientific study of it (re: Report On The Shroud of Turin by Dr. John H. Heller), I found this part the most revelatory. The application of Mr. Strieber’s insights (found in his other works such as The Afterlife Revolution, The Super Natural, and The Key) made this book an “of course!” moment for me. It reconciled the Jesus of my religious upbringing with my subsequent studies and life experiences. It may not be the same for you, but as I said, keep an open mind.
The last chapters are Mr. Strieber’s recounting of history from the days of the early church and St. Paul’s ministry, through times of famine and plague in the Roman Empire, leading to the empire’s adoption of Christianity by Constantine. This material is also revelatory in Mr. Strieber’s interpretation of the effects of several plague pandemics on Rome and why Constantine had to abandon the pagan gods. As far as I can tell, his interpretation is sound and provides a solid foundation to understand how Christianity and Western Civilization came to be what they are.
MY LIKES AND ISSUES
I like the core teaching of Jesus that Mr. Strieber recovers from the parables and Beatitudes. It centers on “know thyself” and strikes me as a spirituality that is core to many religious traditions (e.g., Buddhism, Daoism, the Greek Oracle at Delphi). I think one can find wisdom and inner strength in this. As expressed in this book, it says that what Jesus was, so we are, if we can just realize it.
Jesus: A New Vision has several pages of bibliography to help readers go deeper into this material (such as the Turin Shroud). I wish there was also some footnotes to support some of Mr. Strieber’s scientific and historical statements, such as when he talks about the Mediterranean Basin climate becoming drier, or the North Atlantic Oscillation changing, or solar output reducing, or the Iceland volcano going off. These facts are important to his arguments, which would be bolstered with direct references.
Mr. Strieber does speak a lot about climate change in this book and how it was instrumental in driving conditions in the Roman world. And he notes that it is happening today and even more so. That’s basically true, I believe. Data does indicate a grand solar minimum (reduced sun activity) in the last century or so of the Roman Empire’s existence. The same is happening today, though with the complication of the geoengineering going on over our heads every day.
I see the same issue with his mentions of pandemics. His point is that Rome suffered them just as we do, and they influence the course of history. I agree as a general principle, but I also believe the current 2020 “pandemic” to be a hoax that is a vehicle for taking the world into a new and darker Dark Age. Mr. Strieber may not agree, but maybe there’s another parallel here. If Jesus’ teachings gave the common people a foundation for hope in the face of first century Imperial tyranny, perhaps its reemergence can help us deal with today’s version.
HELPFUL FOR OPEN-MINDED SEEKERS OF TRUTH
I see Jesus: A New Vision as a book providing insight to seekers for truth in history and in spirituality. It is a culmination, I think, of what Mr. Strieber has learned from his extraordinary life experiences (re: Communion). His other two recent books also support it in theme and in truths revealed. These books are, A New World, and The Afterlife Revolution. Also, his older book, The Key, is related. All have been helpful and inspirational for me.
While I rate this book highly for the clarity of its presentation of difficult material and the perspective it takes on the life of Jesus, I say again that it’s not for the fundamentally organized religious, who are not likely to read it, anyway.
For those seekers, however, who look to base their knowledge of life, history, and spirituality on evidence considered in the light of their own experiences, Jesus: A New Vision will be an inspiration and a help. Even a blessing.
September 10, 2021
this book’s agenda is critical thinking, individualization, self-empowerment and it accomplishes this through critique of mainstream ideas and the consideration of simultaneous truth through intuition. it takes a compassionate, humanistic view of culture and the lost magic of the universe that we are all striving to return to through honoring and humanizing the memory of a buddha-like, hyper-intelligent man of which we have countless other examples of but for some reason few have had the same global cultural effect on the age of pisces as jesus of nazareth, simultaneously a king of kings and the bastard son of a prostitute.
February 9, 2025
If we ignore personal biases for a moment, arguing that Jesus was a magician who healed people through the placebo effect is remarkably brainless. Please explain how an illusionist walks on water, calms thunderstorms at will, levitates into the sky, undergoes a transfiguration, or causes a herd of pigs to run into the water and willfully drown themselves.
I won’t even get into the crucifixion, but claiming that Jesus had a dedicated team coordinate and stage the entire event successfully under the nose of Roman authorities is grasping at straws. Did those same people also plant explosives in the ground and detonate them after nine hours of Jesus hanging on the cross, ensuring the earth cracked open at the exact moment he cried out in agony?
The placebo effect argument is equally vapid when you consider that it would have to explain multiple people being raised from the dead, a blind man receiving sight, and a well-known paraplegic walking again. I suppose they were all in on this elaborate scheme? The crippled man, who sat paralyzed for years, could actually walk the entire time but waited for Jesus to arrive so he could help pull off a magic trick? Did this same team of co-conspirators ensure that every biblical writer who documented these events—starting decades later—wrote the same thing? Did they convince Paul to fake a conversion experience, abandon his former status, travel the peninsula proclaiming a fraudulent gospel, and risk his life for a lie just because he was another revolutionary?
It goes on and on. One must have a great deal of conviction to refuse to believe that the alternative explanation is something supernatural or divine. It is a closed-minded refusal to challenge one’s worldview, an unflinching faith in empiricism and materialism that demands rejection of anything that does not fit within its predefined limits.
I won’t even get into the crucifixion, but claiming that Jesus had a dedicated team coordinate and stage the entire event successfully under the nose of Roman authorities is grasping at straws. Did those same people also plant explosives in the ground and detonate them after nine hours of Jesus hanging on the cross, ensuring the earth cracked open at the exact moment he cried out in agony?
The placebo effect argument is equally vapid when you consider that it would have to explain multiple people being raised from the dead, a blind man receiving sight, and a well-known paraplegic walking again. I suppose they were all in on this elaborate scheme? The crippled man, who sat paralyzed for years, could actually walk the entire time but waited for Jesus to arrive so he could help pull off a magic trick? Did this same team of co-conspirators ensure that every biblical writer who documented these events—starting decades later—wrote the same thing? Did they convince Paul to fake a conversion experience, abandon his former status, travel the peninsula proclaiming a fraudulent gospel, and risk his life for a lie just because he was another revolutionary?
It goes on and on. One must have a great deal of conviction to refuse to believe that the alternative explanation is something supernatural or divine. It is a closed-minded refusal to challenge one’s worldview, an unflinching faith in empiricism and materialism that demands rejection of anything that does not fit within its predefined limits.
July 12, 2021
I've read other books by Strieber and this title caught my eye. As with the plethora of biblical interpretations, Whitley offers his own, unique (as far as I know) "vision".
It's a very interesting read that includes historical events, e.g. plagues, severe weather patterns, dynasties that formed and fell, etc. All helped shape what was to become the birth of Christianity.
He dissects the man known as Jesus, sometimes to the nth degree, on his quest to attempt Jesus defined as a Man-God or a God-Man. The gospels of Thomas and Mary seem to hold a key to unlock who Jesus really was, but they were removed from the early church as being too hard to understand and also in the way of the narrative crafted by church leaders.
What I failed to understand was Whitley's angst over what the Resurrection really was. A dead man brought back to life or a light being that blasted through the burial shroud in the form of a living man. Indeed, his own deceased wife, Anne, has appeared to him in physical form as described in one of his books. He asked her how she could do it and she told him the soul in the afterlife has to be on a higher astral plane, i.e., closer to the Creator, the Light. To me, that should have answered his question how could Jesus be back in a human form.
He also has a tad too much repetition with philosophical statements. That aside, this is a very good, short book that can jar your religious senses if you are a serious Jesus follower.
It's a very interesting read that includes historical events, e.g. plagues, severe weather patterns, dynasties that formed and fell, etc. All helped shape what was to become the birth of Christianity.
He dissects the man known as Jesus, sometimes to the nth degree, on his quest to attempt Jesus defined as a Man-God or a God-Man. The gospels of Thomas and Mary seem to hold a key to unlock who Jesus really was, but they were removed from the early church as being too hard to understand and also in the way of the narrative crafted by church leaders.
What I failed to understand was Whitley's angst over what the Resurrection really was. A dead man brought back to life or a light being that blasted through the burial shroud in the form of a living man. Indeed, his own deceased wife, Anne, has appeared to him in physical form as described in one of his books. He asked her how she could do it and she told him the soul in the afterlife has to be on a higher astral plane, i.e., closer to the Creator, the Light. To me, that should have answered his question how could Jesus be back in a human form.
He also has a tad too much repetition with philosophical statements. That aside, this is a very good, short book that can jar your religious senses if you are a serious Jesus follower.
April 8, 2023
I highly recommend this book to everyone, regardless of faith. Strieber investigates several areas of Christianity and its role in history and the future. He details the advancing theories of the Shroud, looking at how it went from being declared a fake to an acceptance of its authenticity. His understanding of Christ as teacher, rather than god, offers humankind hope for our own internal divinity. He turns readers' attention to the gospels of Mary and Thomas for the knowledge of Christ as human and teacher. Strieber believes that humankind can access the abilities of Christ, from miraculous cures to the resurrection, if we only follow the teachings of Christ and the way of life he espoused in the Beatitudes. He does not believe death is necessary to our becoming a being of light who lives in peace and harmony in the here and now. As a read, it is inspiring. It actually made me want to believe in Strieber's potential future for this earth. He declares that although we are experiencing the same destructive forces that Rome did, we do not need to end up like Rome. If we can act out the tenants of Christianity and maintain the strong bonds of community that grow out of Christianity, we can make it through. I would love to see everyone read this book.
March 5, 2023
This is interesting. As this comes from an author who usually talks about aliens and UFOs - but then, the aliens can be the source of new religions, so there’s some connection, I guess. At least he didn’t end up saying that Jesus was an alien, which was a relief. Surprisingly well researched and well put together, this book must be taken as one man’s conclusion about what Jesus is after his life long contemplation. He is wrong on many things about Roman history though, as his understanding of history of the development of socio-economic, ecological and religious scenes in antiquity and late antiquity is too simplistic. (Some factual mistakes too). But, agree or disagree, this is a thought-provoking book, making you think and perhaps argue about what Jesus really represents in our lives and how we should understand and act upon his messages. I still think that He was of divine nature. I just don’t have any explanation for his remarkable insights and abilities if he was just human, which Strieber failed to provide in the end. But a sort of book one should read, if you are interested in Jesus the man and/or religion in general.
January 21, 2021
This book places Jesus of Nazareth in historical context, describing him as a teacher, a genius, a mystic, a religious ecstatic, and a faith healer who transformed the concepts of morality in the Western world. It rejects the idea of miracles, describing them instead as natural phenomenon we may not yet understand.
I like that this book is comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty, talking instead about possibility, laying out the evidence without drawing conclusions. The one area where it fails to do this is with the Shroud of Turin, which it seems to present as the undeniable burial cloth of Christ. That part of the book stands out as an anomaly and doesn't seem to fit with the rest of the text.
IMO, the most important arguments in the book have to do with Christ preaching spiritual growth rather than religious dogma. The book shows how the teachings of Christ are relevant in a modern world that may reject the more mystical aspects of Christianity.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received.
I like that this book is comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty, talking instead about possibility, laying out the evidence without drawing conclusions. The one area where it fails to do this is with the Shroud of Turin, which it seems to present as the undeniable burial cloth of Christ. That part of the book stands out as an anomaly and doesn't seem to fit with the rest of the text.
IMO, the most important arguments in the book have to do with Christ preaching spiritual growth rather than religious dogma. The book shows how the teachings of Christ are relevant in a modern world that may reject the more mystical aspects of Christianity.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received.
January 29, 2021
Agree or not. This is thought provoking.
I find Whitley Strieber to be a very intense and honest person from the interviews and books I've read. In this one the devoutly religious will yell demon and the devoutly secular will yell hogwash. But, the Jesus we meet here is our own best version of ourselves. Not an aloof god man or a crazy zealot. But, a spiritual seeker inviting us to go deeper within ourselves and extend that inner journey and love to each other. Full disclosure: I was born, bred and raised devout Christian from the Bible Belt. My dogma got run over. But, somewhere between Whitley Strieber and Rob Bell I find reason to not slide into the darkness and dread of full cynicism. I don't agree with all Whitley thinks. But, my teenage self from 1975 sure would enjoy firing up a doobie on a star lit night and talking about the cosmos with him. My 63 year old current self would settle for a cup of coffee. ✌
I find Whitley Strieber to be a very intense and honest person from the interviews and books I've read. In this one the devoutly religious will yell demon and the devoutly secular will yell hogwash. But, the Jesus we meet here is our own best version of ourselves. Not an aloof god man or a crazy zealot. But, a spiritual seeker inviting us to go deeper within ourselves and extend that inner journey and love to each other. Full disclosure: I was born, bred and raised devout Christian from the Bible Belt. My dogma got run over. But, somewhere between Whitley Strieber and Rob Bell I find reason to not slide into the darkness and dread of full cynicism. I don't agree with all Whitley thinks. But, my teenage self from 1975 sure would enjoy firing up a doobie on a star lit night and talking about the cosmos with him. My 63 year old current self would settle for a cup of coffee. ✌
April 17, 2023
I can't say CRAP loud enough or enough times to characterize this book.. Whitley Strieber is a bizarre and weird and WACKED individual. One example: In the Gospels, Jesus cures, from a distance, the daughter of a Roman Centurion, who is presented as a loving father concerned about his daughter, afraid that she is about to die. Mr. Strieber tells us that the centurion was actually a pederast asking Jesus to cure his boy-toy so that he could continue to satisfy his homo-lust. Another example: Strieber actually takes seriously the so-called Infant Gospel which the Church rightly identified as completely bogus, and discusses it as if it might actually be an accurate (though somewhat embellished) account of Jesus' childhood. This is UNBELIEVABLY stupid, asinine, and ridiculous. This book is CRAP. Don't waste your money. Don't let yourself be suckered in by this fraud. I want a refund. crap. Crap. CRAP.
July 28, 2024
Profound take on Jesus
Ever since the romanization of Christendom, Jesus has been elevated to the highest deity, indeed, the only deity. Rejecting that, modern sensibilities demand a complete de-mystification of Jesus, even to the point of denying his existence.
Perhaps he was a profound teacher, trying to get us to recognize that the Kingdom of God is within us.
Strieber takes us on a journey through the first few centuries of the common era investigating this premise.
If you're already a true believer in Christ, you should put that aside if you want to understand these teachings.
Ever since the romanization of Christendom, Jesus has been elevated to the highest deity, indeed, the only deity. Rejecting that, modern sensibilities demand a complete de-mystification of Jesus, even to the point of denying his existence.
Perhaps he was a profound teacher, trying to get us to recognize that the Kingdom of God is within us.
Strieber takes us on a journey through the first few centuries of the common era investigating this premise.
If you're already a true believer in Christ, you should put that aside if you want to understand these teachings.
January 27, 2021
Great read!
I've read several Whitleys books and they are all great, but this one is the best! Having been raised as a Baptist, I walked away from the church decades ago. As I wandered through life, I have searched for the answers that the church couldn't provide. With them, it was "believe or else...". I have been on a quest ever since, and have realized that there are as many ways to God as there are people. Each of us has it within ourselves to find our own path. Whitleys book points that out perfectly, with a healthy dose of history, too! Thanks, Whitley!
I've read several Whitleys books and they are all great, but this one is the best! Having been raised as a Baptist, I walked away from the church decades ago. As I wandered through life, I have searched for the answers that the church couldn't provide. With them, it was "believe or else...". I have been on a quest ever since, and have realized that there are as many ways to God as there are people. Each of us has it within ourselves to find our own path. Whitleys book points that out perfectly, with a healthy dose of history, too! Thanks, Whitley!
May 18, 2021
To separate the figure of Jesus from various assumptions of Christianity...
This work poses important questions about what Jesus could have embodied, apart from how The Church developed afterwards in his name -- of how these are two very different things. It is refreshing to have this character dusted off and renewed, not reinvented but re-imagined, by the evidence of his own words and the stories as portrayed through gospels both canonical and suppressed. Strieber helps to put Jesus into context, both in his time and in our current milieu.
This work poses important questions about what Jesus could have embodied, apart from how The Church developed afterwards in his name -- of how these are two very different things. It is refreshing to have this character dusted off and renewed, not reinvented but re-imagined, by the evidence of his own words and the stories as portrayed through gospels both canonical and suppressed. Strieber helps to put Jesus into context, both in his time and in our current milieu.
July 7, 2023
A lot of rationality denying the divinity of Christ while using language to suggest Jesus did what every human could do if we knew how. Following this logic, Christ had God-like abilities but was not God.
Accusations of "God of the gaps" arguments are common in Apologetics, yet the attempt to explain divinity through the "science of the gaps" still relies on left-brained, dualistic thinking..
To apprehend Christ's divinity, both brain hemispheres are necessary and a non-dualistic view of consciousness. You can't logically reason yourself to God without the experience of the divine.
Accusations of "God of the gaps" arguments are common in Apologetics, yet the attempt to explain divinity through the "science of the gaps" still relies on left-brained, dualistic thinking..
To apprehend Christ's divinity, both brain hemispheres are necessary and a non-dualistic view of consciousness. You can't logically reason yourself to God without the experience of the divine.
June 30, 2021
Strieber provides a thoughtful and provocative look at the most influential figure in human history. While I, myself, was enthralled by this book, I suspect that there are others who will disagree with some of the author's theories. To fully enjoy Strieber's work, readers must keep an open mind and be willing to accept the fact that conventional wisdom has failed to adequately explain many of the world's ancient mysteries.
October 20, 2021
Good read to begin an investigation
I liked the first part of the book with its logical explanations and the author, research and knowledge. Unfortunately, I had two read the text twice to make sure I understood the author’s conclusions. The point of the text was lost on me when the author got into rank speculation. Don’t read just once, you will miss much.
I liked the first part of the book with its logical explanations and the author, research and knowledge. Unfortunately, I had two read the text twice to make sure I understood the author’s conclusions. The point of the text was lost on me when the author got into rank speculation. Don’t read just once, you will miss much.
October 6, 2024
stay in your lane, Whitley
Sophomoric understanding of history, Roman “collapse”, and the Bible.
I’ve read ALL of his books. I’ve had “watcher” experiences myself—so I’m inclined toward him— but this book is not an Aha! It’s “yoiks!!”
Sophomoric understanding of history, Roman “collapse”, and the Bible.
I’ve read ALL of his books. I’ve had “watcher” experiences myself—so I’m inclined toward him— but this book is not an Aha! It’s “yoiks!!”
February 5, 2025
Whitley Strieber’s Jesus: A New Vision invites readers on a speculative and thought-provoking journey through the life and teachings of Jesus, reimagined through the author’s distinctive perspective. Known for his explorations of mysticism, psychic phenomena, and the "visitor phenomenon," Strieber applies his unique lens to one of history’s most enigmatic figures. Originally published by Walker and Collier, this book ventures beyond traditional interpretations, weaving historical research, non-canonical gospels, and mystical insights to uncover the “interiority” of Jesus as a man.
Strieber’s analysis incorporates lesser-known sources, such as the Gospel of Mary and the Gospel of Thomas, to highlight perspectives often neglected by orthodox Christianity. Central to his thesis is the idea that Jesus’s core message was not about vicarious atonement—a doctrine that positions the Church as an essential intermediary—but rather humanity’s inherent capacity for enlightenment. This interpretation aligns with Gnostic teachings, emphasizing self-discovery and inner transformation over adherence to external dogma.
The book gains momentum as Strieber delves into the Shroud of Turin. Often dismissed as a hoax, the Shroud becomes, in Strieber’s hands, a powerful symbol of esoteric truth. He meticulously examines its origins and the scientific mysteries surrounding it, proposing that it serves as evidence of Jesus’s ability to transform into a being of luminous energy. This transformation, he argues, reflects an extraordinary secret knowledge that enabled Jesus to leave a profound imprint on the material world.
Strieber’s theories take an intriguing turn as he links the Shroud’s first photograph in 1898 to broader spiritual and astrological events. H.P. Blavatsky associates this period with the dawning Age of Aquarius and the Pluto-Neptune conjunction, a celestial alignment symbolizing collective spiritual awakening. Elsewhere, Strieber connects these ideas to the Miracle of the Sun at Fatima in 1917, which may be compared with Constantine’s vision of a cross on the sun in 312 CE. Also, the Nag Hammadi Library was discovered in 1945. These events, he suggests, represent milestones in humanity’s evolving understanding of divine mysteries.
Despite these ambitious connections, Strieber leaves certain threads unexplored. He hints at a "hidden organization" akin to Karl von Eckartshausen’s The Cloud Upon the Sanctuary and alludes to a mysterious “religion of light” guided by unknown spiritual beings. However, he stops short of fully engaging with the vast literature and traditions—including canonical New Testament references—that could provide deeper context to these speculations. This restraint keeps the narrative tantalizing but incomplete. Another avenue that remains unexplored but promises to reveal unique insights is the connection to the Tibetan Buddhist doctrine of the "rainbow body" or "body of light."
The book’s boldest claim posits a connection between Jesus’s teachings and phenomena resembling intelligent plasma energy or “highly energetic conscious light.” While Strieber avoids directly referencing UFO phenomena, he implies that such energy played a pivotal role in Jesus’s life and could herald the emergence of a new “god-man” in our current era of crisis. Ultimately, however, Strieber’s conclusion is inward-looking: salvation lies within. Humanity, he asserts, must recognize its own potential to become the "christs and saviours" we have historically sought in others, often to our detriment.
While Jesus: A New Vision occasionally ventures into speculative territory without fully substantiating its claims, it remains a bold and inspiring work. By challenging traditional narratives and encouraging readers to consider alternative possibilities, Strieber offers a transformative and provocative vision of Jesus. This book will appeal to those seeking a fresh, unconventional perspective on one of history’s most enduring figures. While not for everyone, Jesus: A New Vision offers an unconventional and thought-provoking journey, ideal for readers eager to challenge traditional religious narratives and explore the intersection of mysticism, history, and modern spiritual possibilities.
Strieber’s analysis incorporates lesser-known sources, such as the Gospel of Mary and the Gospel of Thomas, to highlight perspectives often neglected by orthodox Christianity. Central to his thesis is the idea that Jesus’s core message was not about vicarious atonement—a doctrine that positions the Church as an essential intermediary—but rather humanity’s inherent capacity for enlightenment. This interpretation aligns with Gnostic teachings, emphasizing self-discovery and inner transformation over adherence to external dogma.
The book gains momentum as Strieber delves into the Shroud of Turin. Often dismissed as a hoax, the Shroud becomes, in Strieber’s hands, a powerful symbol of esoteric truth. He meticulously examines its origins and the scientific mysteries surrounding it, proposing that it serves as evidence of Jesus’s ability to transform into a being of luminous energy. This transformation, he argues, reflects an extraordinary secret knowledge that enabled Jesus to leave a profound imprint on the material world.
Strieber’s theories take an intriguing turn as he links the Shroud’s first photograph in 1898 to broader spiritual and astrological events. H.P. Blavatsky associates this period with the dawning Age of Aquarius and the Pluto-Neptune conjunction, a celestial alignment symbolizing collective spiritual awakening. Elsewhere, Strieber connects these ideas to the Miracle of the Sun at Fatima in 1917, which may be compared with Constantine’s vision of a cross on the sun in 312 CE. Also, the Nag Hammadi Library was discovered in 1945. These events, he suggests, represent milestones in humanity’s evolving understanding of divine mysteries.
Despite these ambitious connections, Strieber leaves certain threads unexplored. He hints at a "hidden organization" akin to Karl von Eckartshausen’s The Cloud Upon the Sanctuary and alludes to a mysterious “religion of light” guided by unknown spiritual beings. However, he stops short of fully engaging with the vast literature and traditions—including canonical New Testament references—that could provide deeper context to these speculations. This restraint keeps the narrative tantalizing but incomplete. Another avenue that remains unexplored but promises to reveal unique insights is the connection to the Tibetan Buddhist doctrine of the "rainbow body" or "body of light."
The book’s boldest claim posits a connection between Jesus’s teachings and phenomena resembling intelligent plasma energy or “highly energetic conscious light.” While Strieber avoids directly referencing UFO phenomena, he implies that such energy played a pivotal role in Jesus’s life and could herald the emergence of a new “god-man” in our current era of crisis. Ultimately, however, Strieber’s conclusion is inward-looking: salvation lies within. Humanity, he asserts, must recognize its own potential to become the "christs and saviours" we have historically sought in others, often to our detriment.
While Jesus: A New Vision occasionally ventures into speculative territory without fully substantiating its claims, it remains a bold and inspiring work. By challenging traditional narratives and encouraging readers to consider alternative possibilities, Strieber offers a transformative and provocative vision of Jesus. This book will appeal to those seeking a fresh, unconventional perspective on one of history’s most enduring figures. While not for everyone, Jesus: A New Vision offers an unconventional and thought-provoking journey, ideal for readers eager to challenge traditional religious narratives and explore the intersection of mysticism, history, and modern spiritual possibilities.
February 7, 2021
I found this intriguing and enlightening. I have questioned the church and ceremony in place many times. Reading this book helps me have confidence in my core beliefs and understanding.
February 20, 2021
Brilliant but highly repetitive
Completely different than you expect!
A serious scholarly work, that can lead the reader, if s/he chooses to a different understanding of both Jesus and religion.
Completely different than you expect!
A serious scholarly work, that can lead the reader, if s/he chooses to a different understanding of both Jesus and religion.
May 11, 2021
Interesting information.
July 17, 2021
Brilliant and sensitive. I loved it.
August 29, 2023
Deeply insightful and beautifully written, Whitley Strieber manages to combine scientific research and the question of faith. It is also gratifying to read. Highly recommended.
December 25, 2023
I really enjoyed the way it presented the Jesus story.
April 13, 2024
Compelling enough to keep me reading till the end, and sensible enough that I'm reconsidering my opinions of early Christianity.
August 6, 2025
It was good but there were a ton of typos and it made it kind of hard to read.
August 13, 2023
Although not great this book is certainly a good contribution to the community of people interested in elevating their consciousness or awakening their higher self or their community to their higher selves. Everything the author discusses in his new vision is common knowledge to any well-read person. I was hoping for a connection between the author's other work and the subject of this work. A grand concept indeed. Unfortunately it fell flat for me and did not provide what I was hoping for in that regard, but it still held on to the pulse of truly meaningful contemplations. I see how some people could give this book five stars but I was let down and can only give it three.
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