The Prophet of the Dead Sea Scrolls: The Essenes and the Early Christians; One and the Same Holy People, Their Seven Devout Practices

This is the only book on the Essenes in which I have found so much information, written so clearly.

This book is an eye-opener for anyone who considers him or herself a Christian. It shows how the early Church sprang from the sect Jesus was raised in, the Essenes, who had prepared for generations for His coming. As St. Augustine wrote, "what is now called the Christian religion existed even among the ancients, and was not lacking from the beginning of the human race until Christ came." As a Christian one has to feel a pang of conscience to read how this unique Essene community was morally and spiritually so far ahead of us, even before Christ's mission. Indeed, their way of life would be the perfect prescription for today. Its exemplary humanity, non-violence, sharing of wealth, love of freedom, respect for womankind, kindness to animals, and the modesty of their demands on ecology and society, puts modern thinking in an atavistic shade by comparison. Yet, these idealists were able to maintain a large community for centuries, while surrounded by a world of warfare and slavery. The author's unorthodox findings are carefully buttressed by solid research from the Dead Sea Scrolls, classical authors like Pliny and Philo, and early Church writers. He also cites from chapters of the Bible with an Essene perspective, such as the books of Isaiah and of James, brother of Jesus.As the "Jews of conscience" of their times - like Jeremiah, who had cried out against "the false pen of the scribes" - the Essenes condemned the inhumane parts of the Old Testament. They had kept the true law, passed down by a chain of "Teachers of Righteousness," culminating in the mission of Jesus. The author shows how the first New Testament was an Essene text, which the temptations of power and ambition corrupted in the following generations. Inevitable, perhaps, once the decision had been made to create a mass movement. Blind faith replaced the Essene standard of practical knowledge and deeds.The name Essene is a Greek spelling of Hasidim, the mystics of Judaism. (They were - or are? - also known as the Meek, the Poor, the Worthy, the People of the Way, Gnostics or Knowers, Nazarenes, the Sons of Peace, and by many other names.) "Peace be upon you" was their greeting. The great practical value this book offers today is a touchstone to rediscover real Christianity, and help distinguish the truth or essence of every religion.