Jesus the Son of Man · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for Jesus the Son of Man by Kahlil Gibran.
Chapter 1
James the Son of Zebedee
In the spring, Jesus denounces the scribes and Pharisees in Jerusalem, then leads his disciples to Mount Hermon. There, he speaks of a spiritual kingdom, rejecting Judas's temptation to establish an earthly political kingdom. Jesus rebukes Judas sharply, then leaves the disciples to be alone for the night, while Judas becomes sullen and distant.
Chapter 2
Anna the Mother of Mary
Anna, the mother of Mary, recounts the birth of Jesus in Nazareth, the visit of the Persian Magi who brought gifts and recognized the divine in the child, and her memories of Jesus' childhood—his generosity, his unique behavior, and his profound words. She expresses her longing for Jesus and her confusion at Mary's silence about her firstborn.
Chapter 3
Asaph, Called the Orator of Tyre
Asaph, a renowned orator from Tyre, reflects on the unique power and beauty of Jesus' speech. He contrasts Jesus with the classical orators of Rome, Athens, and Alexandria, noting that while they appealed to the mind, Jesus spoke to the heart and the soul. Jesus' parables, drawn from everyday life, resonated deeply with His listeners, revealing a divine insight and authority.
Chapter 4
Mary Magdalene
Mary Magdalene, thirty years after the crucifixion, reflects on the resurrection of Jesus and the enduring power of His spirit. She addresses those who doubt, contrasting their disbelief with the faith of those who witnessed and touched Him. She challenges the reasons for their hatred and affirms the divine nature of Jesus, linking it to the universal kinship of all as children of God.
Chapter 5
Philemon, a Greek Apothecary
Philemon, a Greek apothecary, reflects on Jesus as a master physician, marveling at His healing powers and the mystery of His knowledge. He notes Jesus' ability to heal the sick and even raise the dead, attributing His wisdom to either divine revelation or secret teachings from India. Philemon expresses regret that Jesus, despite His medical prowess, focused more on religion and politics, preferring to be a speaker in the marketplace rather than a healer.
Chapter 6
Simon Who Was Called Peter
Simon Peter recounts his first encounter with Jesus on the shore of the Lake of Galilee, where Jesus calls him and his brother Andrew to become fishers of men. Jesus visits their home, shares a meal, and speaks of spiritual rebirth and peace. The family is deeply moved, and Jesus chooses to sleep under the stars in the vine-arbour, leaving an indelible impression on Peter and his household.
Chapter 7
Caiaphas the High Priest
Caiaphas, the High Priest, reflects on the necessity of Jesus' death, framing it as a protective measure for the Torah and the kingdom under Rome. He views Jesus as a defiler and corrupter who incited rebellion among the people, including his own slaves. Caiaphas asserts that the execution was a deliberate and clean act, and he vows to continue suppressing Jesus' followers to preserve Judea's sacred heritage.
Chapter 8
Joanna the Wife of Herod’s Steward
Joanna, a woman deemed a prostitute for loving a Sadducee who was not her husband, recounts how she was seized by the Sadducees and brought before Jesus as a test. Jesus refused to judge her, instead shaming her accusers and setting her free. From that moment, her life transformed from bitterness to sweetness, and she became a woman without a tainted memory.
Chapter 9
Rafca the Bride of Cana
Rafca, a young woman from Cana, recounts her encounter with Jesus before he was widely known. She meets him at her garden gate, offers him water, and invites him to her wedding. Jesus attends with his mother and brother, and when the wine runs out, he miraculously provides more. His presence and words leave a lasting impression on Rafca and the villagers, who remember him as the best and oldest wine.
Chapter 10
A Persian Philosopher in Damascus
A Persian philosopher reflects on the nature of God and the teachings of Jesus, contrasting the harsh, judgmental God of Israel with the gentle, forgiving God Jesus preached. He observes that people everywhere create gods in their own image, and he predicts that Jesus's God, who is vast and loving, will find a place among the people. The philosopher remains content with his own Zoroastrian faith.
Chapter 11
David, One of His Followers
David reflects on how he only truly understood Jesus' teachings after His death. He recounts an incident where thieves entered his home while he was writing down his memories of Jesus, and he chose not to resist them, later realizing the deeper meaning of Jesus' saying about giving one's cloak as well.
Chapter 12
Luke
Luke reflects on Jesus' disdain for hypocrites, contrasting His compassion for sinners with His utter condemnation of hypocrisy. Jesus explains that sinners are weak and deserving of pity, while hypocrites knowingly lead others astray. The chapter concludes with the hypocrites' plot leading to Jesus' death, despite their own lawbreaking.
Chapter 13
Matthew
In this chapter, Jesus passes by the Tower of David and speaks to the prisoners within, expressing solidarity with them and prophesying a future freedom. He acknowledges the unjust confinement of the innocent and the guilty alike, and hints at his own impending arrest and suffering.
Chapter 14
John the Son of Zebedee
John the Beloved Disciple explains the various names and titles of Jesus, distinguishing between Jesus the Nazarene as a man and the Christ as the divine Word or Spirit that dwelt in Him. He describes the Christ as the flame of God, the first Word, who has appeared in many lands and times, and emphasizes that Jesus, the Man of Nazareth, was the host and mouthpiece of the Christ. John also explains why Jesus desired to be called the Son of Man, as He knew man's hunger and thirst and sought to lead his brothers to the Anointed One.
Chapter 15
A Young Priest of Capernaum
A young priest of Capernaum expresses his deep hatred and contempt for Jesus, accusing Him of being a magician and sorcerer who deceives the simple, exploits women, and attracts the marginalized with promises of a kingdom. The priest views Jesus as a lawbreaker and a threat to religious authority, even preferring the Romans over Him.
Chapter 16
A Rich Levite in the Neighbourhood of Nazareth
A rich Levite reflects on the craftsmanship of Jesus of Nazareth, noting how the doors and windows Jesus made have endured while others have not. He marvels at the skill that seems to transcend human art, and he wonders how to recognize when God's hand is upon a worker.
Chapter 17
A Shepherd in South Lebanon
A shepherd recounts two encounters with Jesus. The first is a brief meeting where Jesus asks about Elijah's grave. The second, in spring, finds the shepherd grieving a lost sheep. Jesus finds the sheep and returns it, teaching the shepherd to love it more because it was lost and found.
Chapter 18
John the Baptist, to One of His Disciples
Imprisoned, John the Baptist sends a message to Jesus through a disciple, expressing his unwavering faith in Jesus' divine mission and his certainty that Jesus will triumph over their enemies. He acknowledges his own role as a forerunner and humbly declares himself unworthy to untie Jesus' sandals. John also foresees his own impending death, asking for Jesus' comfort and blessing.
Chapter 19
Joseph of Arimathea
Joseph of Arimathea reflects on the dual nature of Jesus—His kinship with God and His vision of the kingdom of the Above-world. In solitude, he contemplates the streams in Jesus' heart, encountering both beggar and princess, and the smiling victim and weeping robber. He recalls a long conversation with Jesus the day before His arrest, where Jesus answered his questions with grace, confirming his belief that Jesus is the Lord and Master of the earth. The chapter ends with a poetic lament for the fallen cedar tree, whose fragrance endures forever.
Chapter 20
Nathaniel
Nathaniel challenges the common portrayal of Jesus as meek and humble, arguing instead that Jesus was a figure of immense authority and strength. He cites Jesus' bold declarations, his confrontation with the Pharisees, and his cleansing of the temple as evidence of his power and conviction, rejecting the notion of a weak Jesus.
Chapter 21
Saba of Antioch
Saba of Antioch reflects on hearing Paul (formerly Saul of Tarsus) preach in Antioch. He contrasts Paul's message with the teachings of Jesus, noting that Paul preaches a Messiah from prophecy rather than the living Jesus, and that Paul's approach seems to forge new chains rather than liberate. Saba recalls Paul's past persecution of Stephen and feels that Paul's message lacks the freedom and joy that Jesus offered.
Chapter 22
Salome, to a Woman Friend
Salome reflects on her secret love for Jesus, contrasting her mother's contempt with her own admiration. She laments her inability to approach Him and mourns the loss of her youth following His death.
Chapter 23
Rachael, a Woman Disciple
Rachael, a woman disciple, reflects on the nature of Jesus, affirming that He was not a dream or a phantom but a real man of flesh and blood. She describes His joy, His sorrow, His aloneness, and His tender love, and she recalls how He brought spring and joy to her soul. She also ponders the significance of His birth and death, seeing Him as the first child and the first man to die.
Chapter 24
Cleopas of Bethroune
Cleopas of Bethroune reflects on the profound and elemental nature of Jesus' speech, describing how his words were not merely for human ears but for the very elements of the earth. He emphasizes Jesus' authority in saying 'But I say unto you,' which transcends the teachings of the prophets, and expresses the difficulty of conveying the essence of Jesus' words, which remain a half-remembered love-song within the soul.
Chapter 25
Naaman of the Gadarenes
Naaman reflects on the persecution of Jesus' disciples after His death, describing the joy they find in suffering. He recounts the stoning of his friend Stephen, who died with a smile, and mentions Saul of Tarsus, who watched approvingly. Naaman expresses skepticism about Saul's reported conversion, noting his dislike for the man.
Chapter 26
Thomas
Thomas reflects on his nature as a doubter, shaped by his grandfather's legalistic insistence on manifest truth. He describes his initial skepticism toward Jesus, his eventual belief after touching Jesus' wounds, and his acceptance of his mission to spread Jesus' name among the Persians and Hindus.
Chapter 27
Elmadam the Logician
Elmadam the Logician, a rationalist and critic, offers a skeptical view of Jesus, portraying Him as a disorderly mendicant who defied the laws of state and empire. Elmadam argues that Jesus' rebellion against established order led to His downfall, comparing His futile efforts to a vine that cannot destroy city walls. The chapter presents a philosophical counterpoint to Jesus' teachings, emphasizing the futility of challenging societal structures.
Chapter 28
One of the Marys
This chapter reflects on the dual nature of Jesus, portraying His sadness as a form of tenderness and His smile as a source of comfort and longing. It emphasizes His humanity and divine presence, suggesting a deep connection with those who suffer and the lonely.
Chapter 29
Rumanous, a Greek Poet
Rumanous, a Greek poet, reflects on the poetic and nature-loving nature of Jesus, describing how Jesus saw, heard, and felt what others could not. He recounts Jesus' tenderness toward nature, children, and simple gifts, and his deep connection to the heavens and the earth. Rumanous acknowledges his own poetic inadequacy in comparison to Jesus, the sovereign of all poets, and chooses silence, listening instead to the divine Poet.
Chapter 30
Levi, a Disciple
Levi recounts his calling by Jesus and the subsequent dinner at his house, where publicans question Jesus about his practices. Jesus defends his actions, emphasizing his mission to comfort the marginalized and his condemnation of hypocrisy. Levi has a vision of seven women and seven men, including a harlot and a thief, symbolizing Jesus' acceptance of the outcast.
Chapter 31
A Widow in Galilee
A widow in Galilee laments that her only son abandoned her and their land to follow Jesus, whom she blames for his departure. She expresses deep bitterness and hatred toward Jesus, believing He is evil for separating her from her son, and she approves of His crucifixion.
Chapter 32
Judas the Cousin of Jesus
In August, on a heath near the lake, Jesus receives news of John the Baptist's beheading. He expresses sorrow for John and pity for Herod, reflecting on the nature of rulers and prophets. He assures John's disciples that John will live in his kingdom and that he himself may be the morrow of this deed. The chapter ends with Jesus lying under the stars, while Judas, the narrator, lies awake.
Chapter 33
The Man from the Desert
A stranger from the desert recounts his visit to Jerusalem, where he witnesses Jesus dramatically clearing the temple of money-changers and dove-sellers. The man is struck by Jesus's authority and the absence of resistance, and he later learns from a bystander that Jesus is a prophet from Galilee whom the Jerusalem authorities hate. The man is moved by Jesus's power and compassion, as seen when Jesus tenderly touches the doves that return to him.
Chapter 34
Peter
Peter recalls a teaching of Jesus in Capernaum about loving one's neighbor as oneself, emphasizing that a neighbor is a mirror and a manifestation of the Most High. When Peter questions how to love a neighbor who does not love him back and covets his property, Jesus responds with a parable about a sparrow feeding on seeds, teaching that one should not be distracted by small losses but focus on the greater harvest. Peter is ashamed but not afraid, as Jesus smiles upon him.
Chapter 35
Melachi of Babylon, an Astronomer
Melachi of Babylon, an astronomer, reflects on the miracles of Jesus, interpreting them not as violations of natural law but as manifestations of deeper cosmic and spiritual laws. He shares his personal transformation, from spiritual blindness and death to sight and life, through his encounter with Jesus, whom he calls the Wayfarer.
Chapter 36
A Philosopher
A philosopher reflects on the unique perception of Jesus, contrasting His wonder and freshness of sight with the dulled senses of ordinary people. The philosopher notes that Jesus saw the world as new, finding divine significance in the simplest things, while others fail to truly see, hear, or feel.
Chapter 37
Uriah, an Old Man of Nazareth
Uriah, an old man of Nazareth, delivers a bitter monologue against Jesus, recalling His childhood defiance, His aloofness as a youth, and His later teachings that Uriah perceives as insults and attacks on the people. Uriah expresses a wish that Jesus had been sent to war to be killed, and reflects on the shame such a son would bring.
Chapter 38
Nicodemus the Poet, the Youngest of the Elders in the Sanhedrin
Nicodemus, a member of the Sanhedrin, defends Jesus against critics who accuse Him of inconsistency. He argues that Jesus' teachings, such as bringing peace and a sword, are not contradictory but address different audiences. Nicodemus testifies to his own transformation from a man bound by laws to one who has found spiritual freedom through Jesus, whom he calls the 'Poet of Galilee.' He expresses contentment even in suffering, having been lifted by Jesus' spirit.
Chapter 39
Joseph of Arimathea
Joseph of Arimathea reflects on the dual nature of Jesus—His kinship with God and His vision of the kingdom of the Above-world. In solitude, he contemplates the streams in Jesus' heart, encountering both beggar and princess, and the smiling victim and weeping robber. He recalls a long conversation with Jesus the day before His arrest, where Jesus answered his questions with grace, confirming his belief that Jesus is the Lord and Master of the earth. The chapter ends with a poetic lament for the fallen cedar tree, whose fragrance endures forever.
Chapter 40
Georgus of Beirut
Georgus of Beirut recounts an encounter with Jesus in a grove of pines. Jesus speaks about the unity of humanity, the absence of strangers in his kingdom, and the importance of seeing the world through others' eyes. He blesses Georgus and implies a spiritual visit to his home, emphasizing the virtue of hospitality.
Chapter 41
Mary Magdalene
Mary Magdalene, thirty years after the crucifixion, reflects on the resurrection of Jesus and the enduring power of His spirit. She addresses those who doubt, contrasting their disbelief with the faith of those who witnessed and touched Him. She challenges the reasons for their hatred and affirms the divine nature of Jesus, linking it to the universal kinship of all as children of God.
Chapter 42
Jotham of Nazareth, to a Roman
Jotham of Nazareth writes to a Roman friend, contrasting the Roman conception of life through conquest and rule with the spiritual kingdom of Jesus. He emphasizes that Jesus was a man, not a god, and that his power lies in the spirit, not in armies or ships. Jotham predicts that while Rome will fall, it may be revived by Jesus's spirit if it humbles itself.
Chapter 43
Ephraim of Jericho
Ephraim of Jericho invites Jesus to his son's wedding feast, recalling the miracle at Cana. Jesus responds cryptically, suggesting he is now the Bridegroom and that his presence depends on the condition of Ephraim's heart. Jesus does not attend, and Ephraim reflects on his own motives, wondering if he sought another miracle rather than true honor.
Chapter 44
Barca, a Merchant of Tyre
Barca, a merchant of Tyre, reflects on Jesus of Nazareth, asserting that neither the Romans nor the Jews, nor even His disciples, truly understood Him. Barca admires Jesus' profound insight into human nature and commerce, as illustrated by the parable of the merchant and his servants. He laments that Jesus' followers seek to make a god of one who was essentially a wise sage.
Chapter 45
Phumiah, the High Priestess of Sidon
Phumiah, the High Priestess of Sidon, calls upon her maidens to sing praises of a heroic figure who slew dragons and gods, but then stays their harps, declaring that their song cannot reach His majesty. She gathers them to hear His words and deeds, emphasizing the depth of His voice beyond their passion.
Chapter 46
Benjamin the Scribe
Benjamin the Scribe reflects on Jesus, portraying Him as a figure above political and racial divisions, who laughed from a spiritual height and wept for humanity. Benjamin, though not a disciple, was drawn to Jesus's face and message, seeing in Him the beginning of a new spiritual kingdom that transcends earthly powers.
Chapter 47
Zacchaeus
Zacchaeus reflects on the inevitability of Jesus' death, arguing that Jesus could have escaped but chose not to, understanding that His death was necessary to build the invisible temple and to reveal His life. He clarifies that neither the Romans nor the priests killed Jesus, but the whole world stood to honor Him.
Chapter 48
Jonathan
Jonathan and his beloved row upon the lake of sweet waters, surrounded by the hills of Lebanon and weeping willows. His beloved sings a song about the lotus flower, comparing their love to it and mentioning a Poet in Nazareth who knows and loves them both.
Chapter 49
Hannah of Bethsaida
Hannah, an old woman from Bethsaida, recounts her youth when she visited her aunt, a seeress living in a vineyard. The aunt prophesied about a man who would conquer empires and rule the world, but would be slain in body yet rise in spirit. Hannah later realizes this was Jesus of Nazareth, and reflects on the fulfillment of the prophecy and her own solitary life.
Chapter 50
Manasseh, a Lawyer in Jerusalem
Manasseh, a lawyer in Jerusalem, reflects on hearing Jesus speak. He admired Jesus as a man but was not convinced by His teachings, finding them vague and obscure. Manasseh believes that Jesus' enemies, by confronting Him, have inadvertently given Him strength and made Him more dangerous.
Chapter 51
Jephtha of Caesarea
Jephtha of Caesarea expresses his disdain for Jesus, rejecting His teachings and deeds as derivative and unoriginal. He praises the ancient prophets and wisdom figures, dismissing Jesus as a shadow and a gleaner of past traditions.
Chapter 52
John the Beloved Disciple
In his old age, John the Beloved Disciple reflects on the nature of Jesus, describing how Jesus was constantly aware of the Father in all aspects of nature and daily life. John explains that Jesus, as the Christ, was the first Word of God, made flesh, and that through Him we understand the divine. He emphasizes that true understanding comes through the spirit, not just the mind.
Chapter 53
Mannus the Pompeiian, to a Greek
A Roman named Mannus writes to a Greek friend, reflecting on the Jewish people's intense and sorrowful relationship with their deity, contrasting it with Roman and Greek religious practices. He observes that the Jews, despite Jesus revealing God as a being of joy, tortured and killed Him, and even His followers now worship an image of His sorrow. Mannus muses that Jesus, like Socrates, may have lasting influence because humanity is drawn to sadness and doubt, yet he laments that the joy of Jesus is overlooked in favor of a rite of pain.
Chapter 54
Pontius Pilatus
Pontius Pilate reflects on the trial and crucifixion of Jesus, recounting his initial indifference, the unsettling encounter with Jesus in the Judgment Hall, the pressure from the crowd, and his reluctant decision to hand Jesus over. He questions the nature of truth and the Spirit, and notes the lingering impact on his wife and his own conscience.
Chapter 55
Bartholomew in Ephesus
Bartholomew defends Jesus against accusations that He appealed only to slaves and outcasts, arguing that Jesus' followers were freemen of strength and courage, and that Jesus transcended social divisions, being noble, free, and high-born in spirit.
Chapter 56
Matthew
In this chapter, Jesus passes by the Tower of David and speaks to the prisoners within, expressing solidarity with them and prophesying a future freedom. He acknowledges the unjust confinement of the innocent and the guilty alike, and hints at his own impending arrest and suffering.
Chapter 57
Andrew
Andrew reflects on the life and teachings of Jesus after His death, recalling His words about nature, God's care, and forgiveness. He recounts the incident where Jesus forgave a woman caught in adultery, writing the sins of her accusers in the dust, and Andrew's own pondering on the nature of forgiveness and purity.
Chapter 58
A Rich Man
A wealthy man recounts his encounter with Jesus, who advised him to give up his possessions and follow him. The rich man questions this advice, arguing that his wealth supports many dependents and that Jesus, being poor, does not understand the value and responsibility of possessions. He reflects on the contradiction between the teachings of Jesus and the practical needs of society.
Chapter 59
John at Patmos
John, the beloved disciple, reflects on his time with Jesus, expressing the profound love and mystery of their relationship. He recounts his calling, the miracles of Jesus as natural expressions of His divine nature, and a personal memory of Jesus' selfless generosity with apples, revealing the depth of Jesus' love and the ineffable nature of His presence.
Chapter 60
Peter
Peter recalls a teaching of Jesus in Capernaum about loving one's neighbor as oneself, emphasizing that a neighbor is a mirror and a manifestation of the Most High. When Peter questions how to love a neighbor who does not love him back and covets his property, Jesus responds with a parable about a sparrow feeding on seeds, teaching that one should not be distracted by small losses but focus on the greater harvest. Peter is ashamed but not afraid, as Jesus smiles upon him.
Chapter 61
A Cobbler in Jerusalem
A cobbler in Jerusalem reflects on his encounters with Jesus, admitting he was drawn not to Jesus' teachings but to the sound of his voice. He confesses his indifference to the substance of Jesus' message, understanding little of it, and relying on others' accounts to know whether Jesus sided with Judea or against it.
Chapter 62
Susannah of Nazareth, a Neighbour of Mary
Susannah, a neighbor of Mary in Nazareth, recounts the crucifixion of Jesus and the profound grief and strength of Mary. After Jesus's death, Mary returns to Nazareth, and Susannah seeks comfort from her after her own son leaves for the sea. Mary speaks of Jesus as a 'seafarer' and consoles Susannah with the idea that women are forever the womb and cradle, not the tomb. The chapter also recalls Mary's journey to Jerusalem to witness Jesus's arrest and crucifixion, her unwavering faith, and her final words to Jesus on the cross.
Chapter 63
Joseph Surnamed Justus
This chapter reflects on the life and legacy of Jesus through the eyes of Joseph, surnamed Justus. It acknowledges the common and vulgar perception of Jesus, noting that He was seen as mad and demon-possessed. Yet, the chapter emphasizes that despite being despised and treated as a stranger, Jesus's words and song will never cease, echoing through generations.
Chapter 64
Philip
Philip reflects on the death of Jesus, describing the cosmic and emotional upheaval that followed. He recounts hearing Jesus's words of forgiveness from the cross, which transformed his grief into a profound sense of peace and purpose. Philip marvels at the unprecedented nature of such forgiveness and vows to carry these words forever.
Chapter 65
Birbàrah of Yammouni
This chapter reflects on the dual nature of Jesus' patience and impatience. He is patient with the dull and the foolish, like winter awaiting spring, but impatient with hypocrites, cunning men, and those who seek signs in the sky rather than in their own hearts. He values the slow weaving of cloth but will not tolerate tearing it.
Chapter 66
Pilate’s Wife, to a Roman Lady
Pilate's wife recounts her encounter with Jesus in the groves outside Jerusalem, describing the profound spiritual impact He had on her. She speaks of His teachings on love and strength, His tender yet authoritative presence, and the lasting impression He left on her soul, making her feel both humbled and held fast in peace.
Chapter 67
A Man Outside of Jerusalem
Judas Iscariot visits a man outside Jerusalem on the eve of Passover, confessing his betrayal of Jesus. He explains his disillusionment with Jesus' spiritual kingdom, his expectation of a political deliverance, and his subsequent despair. After expressing remorse and a desire for forgiveness, Judas leaves into the tempest. The narrator later learns of Judas's death and reflects on the tragedy of his misunderstanding.
Chapter 68
Sarkis, an Old Greek Shepherd, Called the Madman
In a dream, the old Greek shepherd Sarkis envisions Jesus and the god Pan sitting together in a forest, conversing and playing music. They share their wisdom about nature, with Pan speaking of earthly secrets and Jesus of growth and divine care. They exchange instruments, and Jesus plays a flute that evokes pastoral scenes and memories. They then play together, their music stirring both terror and peace across the world.
Chapter 69
Annas the High Priest
Annas, the High Priest, justifies his role in the crucifixion of Jesus, portraying Him as a threat to the law, the temple, and the nation of Judea. He dismisses Jesus as a rabble-rouser from Galilee, accusing Him of blasphemy and sedition, and asserts that his decision to have Jesus killed was a necessary act of protection for the people.
Chapter 70
A Woman, One of Mary’s Neighbours
On the fortieth day after Jesus' death, the women neighbours gather at Mary's house to console her and sing threnodies. One woman sings a lamentation, mourning the loss of Jesus as the 'Spring' and 'Flower' of their land, expressing grief over the barrenness that follows his departure and longing for his return.
Chapter 71
Ahaz the Portly
Ahaz the Portly, an innkeeper in Jerusalem, recalls the last time he saw Jesus. On the Thursday before the Passover, Judas Iscariot arranged for Jesus and his followers to have supper at Ahaz's inn. Unlike previous visits, the mood was somber. Jesus, after the meal, spoke kindly to Ahaz and his family, gave him two shekels to buy a silken girdle for his daughter, and kissed her brow, promising they would return. Ahaz remembers the event vividly and suggests his daughter could tell more.
Chapter 72
Barabbas
Barabbas, the criminal released instead of Jesus, recounts the crucifixion from his perspective. He describes his guilt and shame as he walks behind Jesus, witnesses the crucifixion, hears Jesus's words of forgiveness and compassion, and realizes that his own torment will be endless while Jesus's suffering was brief.
Chapter 73
Claudius, a Roman Centurion
Claudius, a Roman centurion, reflects on the night he was ordered by Pontius Pilate to keep Jesus in custody. He recalls how his soldiers and young Jews mocked Jesus, placing a crown of thorns on His head and a reed in His hand. Claudius felt ashamed and lost heart when Jesus looked at him. Thirty years later, he tells his sons, now serving Caesar, that Jesus, though dead, has raised an army greater than Pompey or Caesar.
Chapter 74
James the Brother of the Lord
James recounts the night of the Last Supper and the arrest in Gethsemane. Jesus washes the disciples' feet, shares a final meal, and speaks of his impending departure. He then leads them to the olive grove, where Judas betrays him with a kiss, and the disciples flee in fear. James reflects on his own cowardice and the lasting impact of Jesus' life and sacrifice.
Chapter 75
Simon of Cyrene
Simon of Cyrene, a farmer, recounts the day he was compelled by a Roman soldier to carry Jesus' cross. He describes the weight of the cross, Jesus' gaze and words, and the profound spiritual transformation he experienced. Even years later, Simon feels the lasting impact of that moment, as the memory of Jesus' hand on his shoulder remains with him.
Chapter 76
Cyborea the Mother of Judas
Cyborea, the mother of Judas Iscariot, defends her son's honor and expresses her grief and disbelief over his reported suicide. She recalls his early life, his hatred for the Romans, and his decision to follow Jesus, which she opposed. She insists Judas betrayed no one and asks to be left alone, directing the inquirer to Mary, the mother of Jesus.
Chapter 77
The Woman of Byblos
The chapter presents a lament by the Woman of Byblos, mourning the death of Jesus of Nazareth. She calls upon the daughters of Ashtarte and lovers of Tamouz to weep with her, describing Jesus as a beloved figure whose voice and presence brought life and sweetness. Her grief is expressed through vivid imagery of nature and loss, emphasizing the profound impact of his death.
Chapter 78
Mary Magdalene
Mary Magdalene, thirty years after the crucifixion, reflects on the resurrection of Jesus and the enduring power of His spirit. She addresses those who doubt, contrasting their disbelief with the faith of those who witnessed and touched Him. She challenges the reasons for their hatred and affirms the divine nature of Jesus, linking it to the universal kinship of all as children of God.
Chapter 79
A Man from Lebanon
A poetic monologue from a man in Lebanon, nineteen centuries after Jesus' time, reflecting on Jesus' enduring presence and the ways humanity has both honored and misunderstood him. The speaker recounts how Jesus' name has been used in prayer and argument, how his mother and followers remain archetypes in the world, and how even his adversaries persist. The poem laments that while temples and crosses have been built, people have not truly embraced Jesus' joy or his radical way of living, instead seeking comfort in a domesticated version of him. The speaker calls Jesus the 'Master of infinite compassion' and notes that his true followers, the 'silent brothers,' live his life but suffer unnoticed, not crucified in the great way. The chapter ends with a blessing on Jesus and a plea for forgiveness.
