The Thomas Jesus [Hardcover]

Steven Fortney (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 17, 2000

Steven Fortney, a practicing Buddhist and former seminarian, tells the story of Jesus in a fresh, new way -- through the eyes of "doubting" Thomas.

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

In his debut, Fortney uses the research of the Jesus Seminar, a group of scholars working to separate fact from myth in the life of Jesus, to chronicle the life of Thomas, a childhood friend of Jesus (nicknamed Yashu). As Thomas, later "Doubting Thomas," sorts out whether Yashu is divine or not, he is appalled at Yashu's erratic behavior (such as his fits of madness). Yet he can't deny that Yashu is drawing followers and that John the Baptist seems to be convinced of his divinity. On the other hand, Thomas thinks Yashu's mother may have filled his head with crazy dreams that put his life in danger. Fortney reveals a side of Jesus hinted at in the Bible; a Jesus who breathes, sweats, and acts like any other man but who answers a higher calling to serve. Some conservative readers may be offended by this unique interpretation of Jesus' life, especially the depiction of Christ's kissing a woman who follows him (Fortney provides the biblical reference to this event). Purchase accordingly.
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About the Author

Steven Fortney has a lifelong interest in religion and religious issues. He is a retired high school teacher who lives in Stoughton, Wis. He attend a Protestant seminary, studying to be a minister, and currently is a practicing Buddhist. Beautifully illustrated by Richard Fendrick.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 232 pages
• Publisher: Badger Books Inc; 1st edition (March 17, 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1878569651
• ISBN-13: 978-1878569653
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 5.7 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,180,412 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)