…as skepticism about Jesus was gaining ground in the nineteenth century, new evidence emerged in support of the historical Jesus. In the 1880s, a Russian explorer, Nicolas Notovitch made an extensive journey through central Asia, and on his return to Europe went public with sensational claims that rocked the Christian world. Notovitch said he had visited a Buddhist monastery in northern Kashmir where he was shown ancient manuscripts about Jesus who was known as “Issa”. Incidentally, this just happens to be the name for Jesus in the Koran. Assuming Notovitch was telling the truth, this new evidence strongly supported the historical underpinnings of Christianity. But was he on the level?
Notovitch was born in Crimea in 1858, the son of Jewish parents. However, in his younger years he converted to the Eastern Orthodox Church after an extensive study of religion. On returning from Asia, he attempted to interest Vatican officials in a preliminary draft for a book he had written about his trip that included a translation of the alleged Buddhist manuscripts. However, in Rome, a cardinal whom Notovitch describes as “very close to the Holy Father” was less than enthusiastic, and replied: “What good would it do to print this? Nobody will attach to it any great importance and you will create a number of enemies.” The cardinal offered to reimburse him for his time and trouble; but Notovitch refused. In Paris, he also discussed a book project with Cardinal Rotelli who also tried to dissuade him.
Although I was not surprised to learn about this resistance from the Roman Church, I was disappointed nonetheless. One might have hoped for a more open-minded attitude given that the four gospels have absolutely nothing to say about the so called “lost years,” the roughly 17-year period in the life of Jesus between the ages of thirteen and thirty when his public ministry began in Palestine. Over many centuries, the lost years have remained a historical void and a question mark. Surely the issue qualifies as a mystery, and one deserving of a serious investigation.
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Details the story that Jesus survived his crucifixion and went to Kashmir where he lived out the rest of his long life. The linked article is panned by many readers in the comments, but I found it interesting and appreciate the author’s work. ABN
American Buddhist Net 