Title
The Jesus Sutras: Rediscovering the Lost Scrolls of Taoist Christianity,New
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In 1907, explorers discovered a vast treasure trove of ancient scrolls, silk paintings, and artifacts dating from the 5th to 11th centuries A.D. in a longsealed cave in a remote region of China. Among them, written in Chinese, were scrolls that recounted a history of Jesus' life and teachings in beautiful Taoist concepts and imagery that were unknown in the West. These writings told a story of Christianity that was by turns unique and disturbing, hopeful and uplifting. The best way to describe them is collectively, with a term they themselves use: The Jesus Sutras.The origins of Christianity seem rooted in Western civilization, but amazingly, an ancient, largely unknown branch of Christian belief evolved in the East. Eminent theologian and Chinese scholar Martin Palmer provides the first popular history and translation of the sect's longlost scripturesall of them more than a thousand years old and comparable in significance to the Dead Sea Scrolls. Gathered, deciphered, and interpreted by a team of expert linguists and scholars, these sacred texts present an inspiring use of Jesus' teachings and life within Eastern practices and meditationsand provide an extraordinary window into an intriguing, profoundly gentler, more spiritual Christianity than existed in Europe or Asia at the time, or, indeed, even today.Palmer has devoted more than a decade to seeking the extant writings and other evidence of this lost religion. His search was triggered by an encounter with an immense, mysterious carved (stele) stone from the 8th century that resides in a Chinese museum collection called the Forest of Stones. The Chinese text on this stone commemorates the founding of a 'religion of light' in China by a great Western teacher and features a unique cross that merges Taoist symbolism with the Christian cross. The scrolls, the stone, and a strange map of the area around a hallowed temple (where Lao Tzu wrote the Tao Te Ching before disappearing forever) gave Palmer enough information to rediscover one of the earliest Christian monasteries. At the site was an 8th century pagoda still intact, and within it, in 1998, Palmer and his team found more evidence, including statues, underground passageways, and artifacts, that helped them uncover and recreate the era and rituals of the Taoist Christians.The Taoist Christians, who wrote the Jesus Sutras recognized equality of the sexes, preached against slavery, and practiced nonviolence toward all forms of life. In particular, this tradition offered its followers a more hopeful vision of life on earth and after death than the dominant Eastern religions, teaching that Jesus had broken the wheel of karma and its consequent punishing, endless reincarnations.Vividly recreating the turbulence of a distant age that is remarkably evocative of our own times, Palmer reveals an extraordinary evolution of spiritual thought that spans centuries. A thrilling modern quest that is also an ancient religious odyssey, The Jesus Sutras shares a revolutionary discovery with profound historical implicationsimparting timeless messages and lessons for men and women of all backgrounds and faiths.
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- Q: What is the page count of The Jesus Sutras? A: This book has two hundred eighty-eight pages. It contains a rich exploration of the lost scrolls of Taoist Christianity.
- Q: What are the dimensions of The Jesus Sutras? A: The book measures five point six inches in length, one point three inches in width, and eight point four inches in height.
- Q: What type of binding does The Jesus Sutras have? A: This book is hardcover bound. The durable binding enhances longevity and makes it suitable for frequent reading.
- Q: Who is the author of The Jesus Sutras? A: The author is Martin Palmer. He is an eminent theologian and Chinese scholar who has dedicated years to this research.
- Q: What genre does The Jesus Sutras belong to? A: The Jesus Sutras falls under Christian books and Bibles. It explores an intriguing aspect of Christian history.
- Q: How do I read The Jesus Sutras? A: You can simply start reading from the beginning, as it is a narrative that unfolds the historical context and teachings.
- Q: Is The Jesus Sutras suitable for children? A: This book is generally geared towards adults and older teens. It contains complex themes and historical discussions.
- Q: What themes are explored in The Jesus Sutras? A: The book explores themes of spirituality, Christianity, and Taoism. It presents a unique perspective on Jesus' teachings.
- Q: Are there study guides available for The Jesus Sutras? A: There are no official study guides. However, readers often discuss themes and interpretations in book clubs.
- Q: How should I care for The Jesus Sutras? A: Keep the book in a dry, cool place to prevent damage. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight to preserve the cover.
- Q: Can I clean The Jesus Sutras? A: You should avoid cleaning books with liquids. Use a soft, dry cloth to gently dust the cover and pages.
- Q: What if The Jesus Sutras arrives damaged? A: If the book is damaged upon arrival, contact the seller for a return or exchange. Most retailers have a return policy.
- Q: Is The Jesus Sutras a good gift for someone interested in religion? A: Yes, it makes an excellent gift for those interested in religion and spiritual exploration. Its unique content is thought-provoking.
- Q: What if I want to learn more about Taoist Christianity? A: The Jesus Sutras offers a comprehensive introduction. For deeper study, consider academic texts or lectures on the subject.
- Q: Is there a digital version of The Jesus Sutras available? A: Yes, digital versions may be available for e-readers. Check your preferred online retailer for availability.
- Q: Who published The Jesus Sutras? A: The book is published by Wellspring/Ballantine. This publisher specializes in a variety of religious and historical texts.