Greek Resurrection Beliefs and the Success of Christianity [Hardcover]

Dag Øistein Endsjø (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 23, 2009

This book examines the relationship between the breakthrough of Christianity in antiquity and the belief in the resurrection of the flesh. Traditionally, Greek religion entailed a strong and enduring conviction that immortality always had to include both a body of flesh and a soul. Both mythical and historical persons were also believed to have been resurrected from the dead and become physically immortal. The Christian belief in the resurrection of the flesh evolved only gradually, beginning with Paul, who simply denied it. But the more popular Christianity became among the Greeks, the stronger the emphasis became on the resurrection of the flesh; and the more Christianity stressed physical incorruptibility, the more Greeks left their ancient beliefs for this new religion. As such, the traditional Greek longing for immortal flesh can be seen as an important catalyst for the success of Christianity.

Editorial Reviews

Review

“This is a lively, highly enjoyable, scholarly, and innovative book considering the theme of Greek ideas about bodily resurrection in the light of the Gospel traditions. The author is to be commended for covering such demanding ground with such a light touch. The work will be an important addition to the literature, and should be required reading in New Testament departments, as well as being equally valuable in schools of Classics and Ancient History. This is a timely and important study. ”--Rev. Dr. John Anthony McGuckin, Nielsen Professor in Late Antique and Byzantine Christian History, Union Theological Seminary, and Professor of Byzantine Christian Studies, Columbia University

About the Author

Dag Øistein Endsjø is Associate Professor of Religious Studies at the University of Bergen, Norway, specializing in Greek religion and early Christianity.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 284 pages
• Publisher: Palgrave Macmillan (June 23, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0230617298
• ISBN-13: 978-0230617292
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.7 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)

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