The 3day resurrection of Christ is in the Torah's prophetic writings which indeed pre-date Christianity. Christ was the fulfillment of Messianic prophecy from the Old Testament. Genesis 22 gives us one of many examples of a 3 day resurrection. Abraham's offering of Isaac is one of many clues given

Don Blizard, Tiverton, USA

The 3day resurrection of Christ is in the Torah's prophetic writings which indeed pre-date Christianity. Christ was the fulfillment of Messianic prophecy from the Old Testament. Genesis 22 gives us one of many examples of a 3 day resurrection. Abraham's offering of Isaac is one of many clues given

Don Blizard, Tiverton, USA

Could it be that Gabriel believed and spoke of the resurrection, but that it took the advent of Jesus Christ to actullay show the doubting world that it can happen? Are there words to suggest that resurrection had never happened before? Why would there not be resurrection before Jesus?

Mike Rouswell, Hurst, Texas , USA

There is not a shred of evidence from 0-65 CE to remotely demonstrate Jesus was a real boy. In fact much exists to demonstrate otherwise. This tablet is just another fact.

Tony, Brownsburg, USA

This example of recycled religious stories falls perfectly in line with the ancient Sumerian story of a man charged with building a big raft to save the world from an impending global flood. Does this Sumerian story sound like the story of Noah's Ark? No; Noah's Ark sounds like the Sumerian story

Alex Cranson, Tualatin, OR,

You non believers The Bible is the Best book ever written. Every story in the Bible was as real as how we are living today. This amazing Book was inspired by God and his followers. You men of little faith youve been living in the flesh to long. If you were walking in the spirit, you would know God

Jenny Baldwin, Tucson, United States

There have been repeated attempts to disprove the existence of Jesus. There is historical evidence, outside of His followers' texts, concerning His existence. There is literary critical evidence for the reliability of the Bible. Religion is false. God, however, is not. This find is not significant.

Gene, Pascagoula, MS, USA

All of you nonbelievers in Europe are just forfilling the bible.
That all of europe will come together and try to destroy Israel.
I can read your hate for any talk of God. Do christians terrorize you and your families? You hate them because they are happy people and you can't understand why.

Shane, Logan, WV, USA

It is interesting to me how all of these folks who do not believe in Jesus took the time to read this article and respond negatively. I think that you really want to believe that there is more to this life than here for a short while and then death especially when it is someone you love who passes.

Tom, Atlanta, USA

for those who are counting the '3 days', the Bible says he rose on the 3rd day, not after 3 days. Crucified Friday (1), buried Saturday (2), rose Sunday (3). Do you get it now?

Angela, Buchanan, USA

Funny thing, if this were published about the Koran, you'd have a fatwa declared about you and a foreign government demanding extradition of one of your elected representatives, as we're seeing here with Gert Wilders, Fitna, and Jordan. 500 witnesses supposedly saw Jesus after his supposed execution

Nicolette, The Hague, Netherlands

Was Caesar "invented" too"? Just a story? It's amazing how the historicity of a religious figure is in question, but other historic figures before him are not. Also, those saying its"ficticious", what about the other Dead Sea Scrolls finding? They predated the Gospels and proved skeptics wrong.

Shane, Louisville, United States

Michael Galligan, People who have blind faith are blind. That is why it is called blind faith to begin with. Also, blind faith usually lands up being wrong. Science is contrary to blind faith. Compare the knowledge it allowed us to have compared to blind faith.

Kyle Golden, Sharon, USA

To address one of the above comments, which had nothing to do with this story, the incidence of child abuse and other similar criminal behavior is about the same amongst priests as it is in the general public.
This "find" is not important and does little to influence Christianity.

James Johnson, New York City,

"Strange but true: those who have loved God most have loved men least".-- Robert G Ingersoll 1881. Take heed of these words those who spit out such outdated spiel. Its time to move on from religion. Lets embrace life and love and knowledge instead.

Rob, Belfast, N Ireland

Many Christian priests in all countries of the world have been found guilty in courts of law of systematic child abuse.These are the interpreters of the truth of god. Hmmmmm!

Michael, Hull, England

"f such a writing does predate Christianity and, does in fact create a belief in the ressurection prior to Jesus birth, then why has there been no such evidence of this before now?"

There has been much evidence of it. Jesusneverexisted.com Jesuspuzzle.com

This is proof of the greatest story sold

Tony Schwartz, Brownsburg, USA

It is amazing how people reason.

Whoever is encouraging this debate wants to make money from it and publicity of course.

In the old testament , years before Jesus was born, his birth; death and resurrection were predicted.

The inscription on the stone simply reinforces this. There's nothing new there.

However there are people who are so ignorant to realise or accept this.

To those who keep taking a bash at Christianity, stop wasting your time , Christianity has come to stay and that's permanent.

amaka, london, england

All these comments on a fictitious being, when there are so many more important and human atrocities occurring as we speak.
Stop living in a fairytale past and get involved in the Godless and Christless present. History is just that, stories are also...

Will Teasdale, Manchester, England

How can so much comment be generated by this "discovery"? This article and the publicity it has created will 'resurrect' a career. It will be followed closely by books, TV documentaries, speaking tours and may well provide pension income for the author.
As we say in N Ireland, wiseup !

jim, ballymena NI,

'Athiests grab at straws again.'
Charles Weaver, Bowie, MD, USA

What a hilarious comment! Unlike of course believing in an all powerful deity and his 'miraculous' son and basing your beliefs on a fictious book......

Adam , Brighton, UK

please remember that there were dozens of prophecies in the old testament that foretold many of the characteristics of the coming Messiah. Christ's earthly ministry, life, death as well as His doctrine was spoken of the prophets anciently. perhaps this was a foretelling...a prophecy fulfilled.

tim campbell, pittsburgh, pennsylvania, usa

Faith is the cornerstone of knowledge. It is the prerequisiteto studying any subject including religion. Faith becomes knowledge. Whatever the subject a teacher is required& we accept on blind faith which later becomes knowledge. Religion is the same, first faith then knowledge.But fools are blind.

michael galligan, manchester, england

Both the Cult of Isis and the Cult of Mithras involves stories of death and resurrection. Mithras even has a claimed birthday of December 25. It does not diminish the truth of Christianity.

Chris Gillibrand, Brussels, Belgium

Second most read article? Shucks to the Darwinistas- Jesus lives! ( or at any rate, fills the message columns of The Times).

Margarita, Crouch End , England

If people want to believe something, let them believe it.

Dawkins believes the brain grew out of lifeless rocks, diluting the absurdity to an imperceptible level by using a long period of time to "prove" it. But take the start and the end and it makes no sense at all. Believers, to a man!

iain, bedford, uk

Some people have faith that will never be shaken, no matter how much evidence refuting the bible is presented. when one clings to a system of beliefs for comfort, belonging and confidence, they will continue to do so in denial of the obvious truth or claim the word of god is really a metaphor.

Cameron, London,

As an American, I'd like to apologize for the comments left by some Americans who give the impression of their homeland as a hotbed of superstition and lunacy. Not all Americans are Bible-thumpers and religious literalists; some of us are as skeptical about Jesus as Christians are about Zeus or Ra.

Robert Haines, San Francisco, USA

The Opinions of so many Uber Right Wing Christians from America scare me too!

Unfortunately, the educational system doesn't really teach children that even Thomas Jefferson had deep seated suspicions regarding religion and the Church. In today's political climate Tho. Jeff. would not be electable!

Scott, Durham, NC, USA

The Opinions of so many Uber Right Wing Christians from America scare me.

Dan, Jalon, Spain

Wow. A lot of people from the USA are really nutty. The Bible is a fairy tale. The Old Testament tells of a vengeful, petty, jealous, genocideal God. The New Testament tells of a peaceful, loving, merciful pacifist. The two just don't add up.

J.H.C, Lisbon,

If you accept the existence of fossils, then you cannot accept the 1st page of the bible and therefor its content.. You cannot pick and choose Gods word. Interestingly it is only a few hundreds years ago when the bible was taken as literal. You telling me the old Popes were wrong?

Realist, Bradford, UK

I dont agree with Christians but I'll defend their rights to their own beliefs. Please let us also remember the UK has had an extreme history with the Christian religion, at least we havent drawn and quartered anyone for their beliefs here in the US and we are young still maybe there's hope yet!

Leila, Orlando, USA

This is all suspect, given the way the Israelis have been using archeology as a political tool for years and treating their source materials activities as if they are state secrets.

JF, London , UK

I can't prove the existance of God but if you want to see if you do believe in something bigger than your self. Go outside alone at night, close your eyes and summon the forces of evil. Just ask them to come and show you they are real if they can, then come back here and tell us what you found out

JC Nowlin, Navarre FL, USA

Helen, the "more historical evidence for Jesus than Caesar" line is a silly old canard and you do Christians no service by repeating it.

There are 1000s of records of Caesar's life and literally no contemporary records of any kind concerning a person on whom the Jesus myth could have been based.

Conners, London, UK

So a largely incomprehensible stone has been found, and everyone's claiming it confirms what they thought all along. Why am I not surprised!

Anna, Cardiff, UK

This is nothing new. The bible also refers to the resurrection of the messiah in Isiah. And gives many other prophecies that also were true about Jesus. Maybe Simon is using this scripture as his basis for being the messiah. Only he didn't seem to accomplish his resurrection.

Jessica Gibson, Woodstock, GA, U.S.A.

It pleases my Father that those with eyes do not see and those with ears do not hear. Simple words - but so hard for man to accept. Wake Up World - mans wisdom is finite and is nothing but vanity compared to Gods wisdom which is infinite. Seek and you will find!

Jim Mc Cain, Los Angeles, USA

RE Andrew Milner , Don't be so negative there my friend. I'm an atheist too,but I often thought "What is the universe REALLY there for?" The distant is too vast to travel physically,but what about spiritually? I reckon we've been too blinded by manmade evangelistic rhetoric to think otherwise.

Robin, Coleraine, UK

Either way; this proves there was an expectancy of a Messiah being resurrected after three days. That Simeon applied the message to himself is not unusual. A word from an angel would have gone a long way toward mounting a successful rebellion. Look at Islams preposterous stories of angelic visits

Trouy Stone, Tucson, az, USA

And it confirms the Muslim belief about Prophet Jesus..

Farrukh, Woking,

Noah's flood was many centuries after Gilgamesh's flood, the ten commandments closely follow Hammmurabi's Code. As a historian, it seems to me that the Hebrews back then took oral tradition of others and made it their own. Why not this too? It all comes down to faith. What do you believe?

Robin Castellanos, San Antonio, TX, USA

Why won't they allow the tablet to be examined by independent sources. It has not been authenticated, and the period it's claimed the tablet comes from, was not one where ink was used on such tablets. Until this "artifact" is tested and proven to be what it is claimed to be, it has no merit.

Jenny, Grand Rapids, MI US

Glad to see those Bible thumpers rightly on the back foot. So let's have equal space for those with strength of moral character to realise that after life or reincarnation are comforting deceptions for those too weak minded to handle mortality. When you draw your last breath, it's "Game Over".

Andrew Milner, Karuizawa, Japan

And who cares? Lets argue history about who is right and wrong in the past. Most peaceful religions in the 21st centruy stress love of people, peace, brotherhood, being a good husband and so on. I have no problem with religions that stress that. Do Christians cut off heads? Buddiest blow up trains?

William, Atlanta, USA

What I don't understand from Professor Knohl's conclusion is why lack of originality is taken to mean lack of authenticity. Looking at the biblical book of Acts it appears that the Apostles were convinced of the authenticity of Jesus' resurrection. Or who here would have lived and died for a lie?

Mike Page, Munich, Germany

To Ed in Catonsville US:
The problem with written evidence is that Christian Soldiers have burned and edited items that disagree with their version of events. The place to have found this evidence would have been the Library of Alexandria, I wonder who sacked destroyed these? Christian Crusadars.

Steve K, Sevenoaks, England

To those who think the comments from Americans are crazy, I say that they demonstrate a diversity of thought from a free country that is truly the melting pot of the world. So watch what you say. Your vitriol could be aimed at one of your relatives!

Dave, Hometown, USA

There were many messianic Jewish sects in Israel in the time of Christ. John the Baptist led one, and it was he that initiated Jesus' ministry on earth with his baptism. It wasn't just the Resurrection that fired the Apostles, but the many visitations and mystery of Pentecost and the Ascension to.

Paul, Sydney, Australia

"There has not been a single story in the Bible that has been found to be false. Thats a good record."

Are you sure about that? The walls of Jericho, an Ark on Ararat, Canaanites settling in Israel not Pilistines, creation in 6 days. Archaeology has not proved any at all in biblical timescales.

Ian, Edinburgh, Scotland

So there it is.Its all based on mytholgy. Every single bit of religon is based on what happened before. As the saying goes "Hindsight is a wondeful thing". I always knew in my heart and head that Jesus and his cult were nothing more than a latter day Derren Brown.

Rob, Belfast, UK

why would this remotely upset Christians? who cares what some mangy, ambigous tablet says. Isaiah wrote clearly about Jesus' death and resurection 900 years before He was born - that's a lot more impressive!

Simon, Birmingham, UK

So, someone else died and was ressurected after three days? Someone better tell Dionysus.
"'casts doubt on death and resurrection of Jesus'" - i think not. It's the belief that counts, and a lot of people believe in the death and resurrection of Jesus, whether metaphorically or literally.

Zelle, Portsmouth,

TO:Jason, Ashland, KY, USA - Please do not condescend to others who have a different belief. How dare you take it upon yourself to "apologize on behalf of my nation." You don't have the right nor the authority. Thank God we live in a free country where dopes like you can express there bigotry.

Laraux, Cleveland, Ohio, USA

To Allen, Collierville, USA.

Am I willing to bet my life? Absolutely.

I live by a moral code that respects others as equals; but if I am to be condemned by a spiteful God just because I do not follow his peculiarly biased agenda then so be it - he would not be deserving of my faith.

Duncan, Bristol, UK

"Why are you non-believers attacking us believers unless you are not sure if we are right?"
Allen, Collierville, USA
No Allen, we don't believe you are right. We rue the fact that religious zealots use silly old texts as a way of controlling important parts of life. You impose your religion on us.

garry, London,

Religion is the biggest con trick in human history. Religion is a HUMAN construct. Not created by a higher 'entity'. All this 'interpretation' is both amusing and depressing. We should be focusing our energies on solving more pressing problems.

Iain , Sydney, Australia

Jason, apology accepted! Just why is the most greedy and selfish nation in the world so full of people who claim to be Christians, Christ would be spinning in his grave.........if he was still there.

Clive Stringer, Eggesford, England

I do not believe in God or an after-life yet still find life incredibly fulfilling and beautiful. Our world's a fascinating + inspriring place evolved over time;its intricacy is indeed astonishing. Can we not appreciate this natural marvel rather than always assume some higher power is responsible?

Margot, Fife,

You either believe in Jesus and the resurrection or you don't. It comes down to faith! All these negative coments bring to my mind the saying"misery loves company". Why are you non-believers attacking us believers unless you are not sure if we are right?Are you sure?Are you willing to bet your life?

Allen, Collierville, USA

The resurrection con was rightly treated with contempt from the start, as were the virgin birth, the water-walk, the lazarus trick, the prestidigitations with wine, fish, etc.

Only Christian fanatics (a real problem in the 2nd and 3rd Centuries) insisted on propagating these recycled tall tales.

Albert, Paris,

This doesn't prove or disprove the whole jesus is the risen god idea. All it proves is that the jews were waiting for a mesiah, and that this rising in 3 days was part of the expectation. Christians have always believed that jesus came to fulfil the prophesies/expectations of judaism

Rosa, Birmingham, UK

Dah......this finding only confirms further the credibility of Christ as Messiah, not deny it! All Jewish written History for over 4,000 years knew of the "3 day rule" for the true Messiah, so what is the argument? Except Christ was the only one to actually rise in 3 days from death!

Chris Schotts, Los Angeles, USA

After reading these comments I'd like to apologize on behalf of my nation. Please realize that not all Americans are crackpots and zealots who thump on their bibles and attempt to preach from upon high to the unwashed masses. Though they are the most vocal of us, please ignore them.

Jason, Ashland, KY, USA

The truth is that you are uncontrollably racing every moment towards death and there is no meaning to anything you do or think in this chaotic universe of randomness. There is no central definition to morality so you should do as you please and take as you will for the only thing you have to look forward to is your ultimate meaningless death. Is this your truth or is it true that truth doesn't exist? Open your minds to the reality beyond what is obvious. 1 plus 1 equals 2 is a discovery not an invention. Thanks to Christianity for developing the scientific method and pulling us from the dark ages.

Mike, Dallas, USA

I was reading some of these entries....I can't believe how jealous and insecure people are........get over it..Jesus came 2000 years ago and still today is the talk of the town.......His main speel was - love, accepatance and forgiveness......sounds like a winner even today......

robert ritsko, yuma,az, usa

Well Isaac of new york, USA - If one were to take to its logical conclusion the 'theory' of 'intelligent design' then one would have to say that God was also made, given that it is so complex and the God who made your God was in turn 'made'. The logic of ID falls down if you do not accept that.

chris, London, UK

Faith scares so many people because it infers that there is something greater than they in the world.

Marion Tinsley, Brick , NJ

Even if this claim is real it still doesn't descredit Jesus's historicity. In Deut. (The jewish bible) which says "anyone crucified is accursed by God". The prejudice against crucifixion + jewish belief I stated in Deut. makes it impossible that anyone would invent a crucified messiah.

Will, Clinton, US

Sorry Mojo. I'm talking about death & resurrection after 3 days in OTHER religions. Not as prophesies within Jewish biblical text, but beliefs about other gods, by cultures long before Judaism. I've done more than just read the bible. It's called historic research.

Jilli Roebrts, Hobart , Australia

it is best to make sure you've got the facts right & turn away from all theories, because they all are truly fictious supposition. God is all truth, He knows the beginning from the end. Science has been proving that for ages. The Bible spoke of Paths in the Seas and they were discovered & used.

Sydney Y. Brown, Sandpoint, USA

"Reading the comments here I am so glad I am not an American. With an athiest soldier suing the army for abuse ...."
The legal system comes from the Brits and I think its pretty good. One thing we imported is the presumption of innocence (or civil preponderance burden). Nothing is proven by filing.

ShubE, Sioux Falls, USA

I think this tablet is a great discovery. There are alot of extremely moral and intelligent people that are believers. But I think that the tradition is more myth and legend than actual history. This table could help show the roots of the the jesus story that was later embellished by the gospels

Will, Terre Haute,

After the discussions end individual thoughts will attend to what we perceive to be both practical and pertinent ... yet, within hearts Jesus Christ is asking the same question he posed to Simon Peter..."Who do you say I am?"

Michael Verrett, Baton Rouge, United States

The truth is that you are uncontrollably racing towards death and there is no meaning to anything in this chaotic universe of randomness. There is no central definition to morality so you should do as you please and take as you please. Is this true or is it true there is no truth? 1+1=2

Mike, Dallas, USA

Jesus Christ, the Son of God, lives! He is the Saviour and Redeemer of mankind. He suffered pain and death so that we can all live again, in God our Father's presence, if we obey Him. That is TRUTH! Nothing can change that, for TRUTH is ETERNAL. I know this to be so. In Christ's name, Amen

Susan Lythgoe, Bolton, Lancashire

If the resurrection was dreamed up as a hoax before it happened, then why did most of the disciples of Jesus die a martyr's death, based on the resurrection? Would you die for a lie?

Cynthia Wright, Chantilly, USA

TO: Mark, Cheltenham, UK re your statement:

That is humankind’s failing – not God’s. We live in a fallen world and regardless of our good intentions we still sin and fall short. We are imperfect beings and need God – that’s why He sent His Son, Jesus. Believe and obey and leave all the consequences to Him and your life will go much better plus the retirement package is out of this world! God Bless you.

Laraux, Cleveland, Ohio, USA

The big bang and Darwin’s evolution are theories NOT proven fact.

Laraux, Cleveland, Ohio, USA

It's disappointing that the enlightened peoples of Europe tar the USA as a "crazy" country because many believe fervently. I'm not one of the fervent but I'm certain dogmatic religious belief and persecutions didn't originate in the USA. Europe is wonderful but a bit condecending don't you think?

Todd, Virginia, USA

Reading the comments here I am so glad I am not an American.

With an athiest soldier suing the army for abuse, It now appears that their army are religious crusaders too.

Religion always damages a country - just look at how undeveloped some muslim nations are. That is America's fate.

Garry W, London,

Is there no biblical education anymore? OF COURSE the idea of a death and resurrection after three days would be commonplace LONG BEFORE JESUS. It was prophecized such in the BOOK OF HOSEA, written in the 8th century BC. This was only of the prophecies Christ fulfilled. Nothing new.

Mojo Wilkins, Lexington, Kentucky, USA

Religous people always have to control there circumstances...I thank God that He has called some to be spiritual ...they learn to accept His control......whatever is found will be to used for the good of those that believe....

robert ritsko, yuma,az, usa

All religion is a sham thankfully most in the Uk are enlightened to this fact. Indeed I imagine although most are registered as Christian a very few of these actually believe in a higher authority. Science has catagorically disproved all religious dogma e.g. evolution, age of earth.

Tom, Epsom, U.K.

He said, she said. There will always be those that want to commit the Christians to the lions in any manner possible. Those that truly believe need not worry about the many that want to dis-credit the Jewish and Christian beliefs. Go Christians, go!

Bert, Charlotte, NC, USA

This changes nothing only confirms what the prophets prediceted in the Old Testament.

Laraux, Cleveland, Ohio, USA

Religion has been a long standing excuse/cause of war and suffering, mainly blind to believers, hopefully any finds (this one included) will open peoples eyes to the role and responsibilities that go with religious beliefs and make each person more accountable for the decisions they make

Mark, Cheltenham, UK

So many crackpot letters from the USA!
What a crazy country.

Mike

M.Levin, London, UK

To Paul M, Puerto del Rosario, Spain

Life would be dull if we only lived it based on evidence. We cannot confirm many a thing in science either, e.g. the big bang. It is a theory from a different paradigm. I'm neither condoning nor condemning, but would fiercely resist the loss of freedom to debate

anita, lancaster, uk

Yet again all the scary bible bashers who believe these fairy stories are mainly from countries other than the UK. Go and spread your dogma in your own newspapers comment sections!

GC, London, UK

If it is your wish, believe, but some of the wording from you guys is tantamount to religious hate. Of those who do not believe as you do. I bet you guys laugh at the Muslims for believing in the wrong thing. Don't bring you evangelistic thoughts to a topic that is aimed a free minded people.

Jon, Fleet,

When will people stop parroting the 'faith needs no proof' nonsense? True faith needs proof, it is evidence-based. Why did Paul cite witnesses to the resurrection? That evidence though is not always direct. Science often follows this same principle. These I-need-no-proofers are fools at best.

Paul M, Puerto del Rosario, Spain

Having been on Archaelogical digs in Israel I wouldn't trust any Israeli Archaelogist's opinion on any Christian or Muslim related artifact. As other commentators note this is hardly revelatory.

Benjamin, Gloucester,

This discovery isn't going to cause Christians or Jews to reconsider their faith, the same way the Bible doesn't cause atheists to reconsider theirs.It is an interesting discovery, but it doesn't prove or disprove anything in either faiths.

Julia, Teesside,

The Old Testament predates this artifact by far and contains numerous prophecies of the birth, life, death, and resurrection of the Messiah. I think it was copied from the OT. Athiests grab at straws again.

Charles Weaver, Bowie, MD, USA

Laurence Gardener is pretty hip in these areas - and seemingly objective. I would like to hear his views on this subject.

john, palma, spain

Aww, bologna!
The Virgin Birth was predicted by Isaiah. That's why they were called prophets.
Christ was the fulfillment of prophecy.

Bosco, Bantry, Ireland

This is just another silly claim to discredit the bible. Claim after claim has been put to rest as false teachings, the bible is a series of important stories that help us understand mankind and his relationship with the creator of all things.

Mike Milici, chicago, USA

This doesn't prove or support anything against the Christian faith.

Josh Parr, Dallas, US

Christianity hinges on the resurrection, yet does so from the basis of historical, eyewitnessed, logical fact. The Bible itself says if it didn't happen Christians are to be 'pitied above all men'.
In essence it challenges people to prove it wrong! Sounds confident and reasonable to me.

Chris , totternhoe,

At the time of Jesus, Israel was oppressed by the Romans, and the culture hoped for a warlike messiah, in contradiction to the Torah and the Prophets. So guess Who wasn't accepted?

Jubal, Los Alamos, USA

The bible, though penned by man, was inspired by God's Holy Spririt; yet He punished Israel with 400 years of silence, which would include the time of this writing. Another concern is that no one can "command" Jesus to do anything. He arose as planned before the foundation of the world. He lives!!

Helen, Hammond, US

Jesus said to the disciples "I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades (Hell) will not overpower it" That was 2,000 years ago and the church is strong and growing in spite of the many martyrs during the years.

David Jack, Medford, USA

I have not problem with this discovery. It will either be proven to be a fraud or at least of no relevance, or God will further use it to prove that His Son Jesus Christ is the only way to Him just like every past incident like this one has. That's the way it is with Truth.

Tom, Lompoc, USA

The Bible, the Koran and all the others are writings by ancient Bronze Age men trying to explain the world and dominate it with their beliefs. None of it can be proven. All the miracles are hearsay. No contemporary historian ever wrote about Jesus. And please don't say Josephus did.

Bill, Portland, USA

Extraordinary! So many closed minds. I have friends who have a sincere and complete belief in God, who regard the Bible as a collection of MENS' myths, legends and facts distorted by time and cross-generational misunderstandings - and some truths. I respect them. Their attitude makes sense to me.

Peter Lloyd, BLACKER HILL, South Yorkshire

Actually there are 300+ prophecies regarding the messiah in the OT. Perhaps Jesus and followers purposely followed a "messianic story"?
The chance that one person in all history fulfills just 48 of them (even purposely) is 1 in 10^157. That's 157 zeros after that 10. Need science? That's science.

Chad, Lexington, NC, USA

If such a writing does predate Christianity and, does in fact create a belief in the ressurection prior to Jesus birth, then why has there been no such evidence of this before now? If this was as Professor Knohl indicates a widely held belief, there have been some sort of social indication of this.

Ed, Catonsville, USA

If the Bible is true then God kills babies. Read your OT. Killing people who do not believe is a big part of both the OT and NT. Even Jesus comes back with a sword to kill all unbelievers and send them to eternal fire. What love is this?

Bill, Portland, USA

The resurrection narratives of the New Testament are among the best attested from the Roman World. I've spent a great deal of time examining the evidence, I am convinced that the Resurrection is history, not myth. It is possible that prophetic references to the resurrection underlie this source.

Kevin Short, Dry Ridge, KY, United States

The entire old testament was a foreshadowing of the new testament, in which Jesus fulfilled. So why would be worry about some tablet that foretold the resurrection?
Jesus died and rose again, that's all that matters.

vickie, Hughson, USA

big difference between the UK and USA is the amount of religious zealots in the 'land of the free'. Personally i'd prefer to be from a country that doesnt require faith in fairytales as a prerequasite to obtaining high office!

Tim, seoul, korea

Jesus can be proven by historical fact? How so? What is your proof? Are there coins with his image on them? Are there legal papers somewhere that mention his name? Is his own handwriting found anywhere, like a diary or something? There are no images of Christ before @ 400 AD. Where's your proof?

Marci T, Waynesville, USA

Is it just me, or are the responses to this as scarily indicitive to the current stateof man as I think they are?

Richard, Sydney,

OK lets say what you see is possibly true,But Christians have not followed that time line, They have Christ on the cross Friday buried late that night after sundown]=Sat, Raised Sun early. One and a half days Tops not three.Also Changed Sabbath to 1st day instead of Gods7th. Christianity is wrong.

Peter, Vancouver. BC., Canada

Picture God at the top of a mountain w/ many different paths winding up to Him. Each person must choose a path. Some say if God loves us surely he will accept whichever road we choose to get to Him. But the truth is God loves us & wants us with Him so He simply tells us which path to take - JESUS!!

Kathy, Spartanburg, USA

Members of the LDS church would not find this contrary to Christianity, but another witness for the the "Messiah," his death, and his resurrection after 3 days. We believe it essential to mankind's salvation. God certainly would not keep it a secret until 33 AD. He made it known from the beginning.

Dalan Andrews, Shelley, ID, USA

Isaiah 53 clearly outlines Christ's coming, death, and resurrection. Verses 2-6 address his purpose, verses 7-9 speak of his death, and verse 11 speaks of resurrection. Isaiah the prophet wrote this about 800 years before Christ.

Mark, FL, USA

His word as interpretted translated and edited for centuries by fallible mankind.

JKG, USA,

I may be part of a "cult", but I am in good company. Those who need proof, are not happy deep within themselves with anything or anyone. I don't feel compelled to defend my position because there will come a time when I will face God and not have to explain myself for lack of faith.

Sharon, Largo, USA

It would take more than this tablet to disprove the resurrection. Consider Jesus' disciple's changed lives after the resurrection. They were transformed from cowardice to boldness and most of them died for Jesus who was resurrected. People don't die for a lie.

Ken Emigh, Nashville, TN, US

Ken Emigh, Nashville, US

What would be ground-breaking is some hard evidence that the whole lot of them, Jesus included, actually existed in the first place. That'd be the day.

Sam, Shanghai, China

God said "Israel is my son, my firstborn" Exodus...

Jamie, Tampa,

You do get some sensible advice from the Bible. Don't kill, treat others as you would treat yourselves, don't cheat on your other half... advice like that does make getting through life that little bit easier.

Bryony, London,

God is the same today as he was yesterday. Why would this upset christians?

Richard Allgood, Mountainhome ID, USA

The missing link between Judaism and Christianity can be found in the Book of Mormon ... a text written anciently and translated in modern times foretelling the birth, death, resurrection of Christ 500 years before birth! Check it out!

Troy, Minneapolis, MN

Just as the owner of the tablets says "this only adds to the credibility of Jesus". You can read about Jesus and the type of death he would suffer in the Old Testament. Read Isaiah Chapter 53 and you will clearly see the prophetic words of the coming messiah Jesus Christ.

Jon Carr, Bangor, USA

Jesus WAS real, but no more the son of God than you or I. He said himself "We are all children of the Father". There's much value to be had from his lessons, but that's the same with any religion - they all teach the SAME things, just with slightly different stories.

Jesus was a Buddha.

Adam, Henderson, USA

This affirms rather than casts doubt on Jesus. This Simon may be a symbolic foreshadowing of Christ . There are many examples of people who had experiences similar to Christ (Jonah, Isaac). This may also be a prophecy. Isaiah prophesied the future in the past tense, & used many names for Christ.

Joe Everett, Mapleton,

Fairy tales? Science has disproven religious claims? I love it when people speak so admantly about something they know nothing about. To all the Darwinists out there, please research the Cambriage Explosion. Now read Genesis. Coincidence? Hardly.

Bill, Nashville, USA

There is just one problem with the Bible. There resurrection was not in the original writings of the gospel of Mark. It was added in 100 years later by other men. So can anyone explain that one?

Billy P , Memphis, USA

These postings are very well written. I don't pretend to know more on this subject either way and have grown more conservative as I age. I like the varied points of view. Thanks for the interesting reading.

Brian, Southern California,

The Gospels were not written 400 years after Jesus. They were written around 30-60 ad. This new discovery can't change the truth. Jesus is the only way to Salvation. So trying to disprove the truth will never succeed. but naysayers please keep trying the truth will become stronger.

Chris Wilkinson, Denver, United States

A long time ago there was nothing...and then it exploded.

Shame to see our European cousins have lost their way. Faith is not something confirmed by stone tablets. It is a grace given by God.

Be steadfast, the time is near.

scotj, Brookfield, USA

I believe that science is God's way today of revealing Himself as we evolve capability to understand further. I also believe the Bible is a collection of some of the ways God revealed Himself before science. The Bible is not the end, it is the beginning, and is as valid as science in learning God

Greg, Christiana, USA

To Dannie from Four Oaks. Don't worry mate, there are christians in other places besides USA. Blessings to you from Australia.

Lynne, melbourne, australia

Skeptics, I know that there is no piece of evidence which could truly make you believe in Christ. It is sad that this new "evidence" provides you with joy. However, it is disheartening for me, a Christ follower, to imagine what your life is like without the true hope that there is something more.

Chris, Dallas, USA

The Gnostics did like to twist the stories the Bible presents as truth. If this is in any way true, could it have been an oracle. Many times prophecies are given far in advance and others are for immediate purpose. True prophecy should be the what God wants to say and not what humans want to say.

Mary Beth Pomeroy, Fairview, TN, USA

Have you printed a photo of this artifact?

j h , tulsa , us

A sensible person would actually look into history for themselves, not via a Dan Brown book, and observe the compelling evidence for who Jesus was. People more intelligent than you or I, have done it and agreed. Please dont make the mistake of trivializing Jesus, it is a costly one. He really Is.

Bryan David, Portland, USA

Dr. Knohl said that the text “could be the missing link between Judaism and Christianity in so far as it roots the Christian belief in the resurrection of the Messiah in Jewish tradition”.

I guess he has never read that Jesus and the first Christians were, uh, Jewish!

Richard, Denison, usa

for those that say the Bible is just fairy tales obviously have never heard of historical documents test which the Bilbe, as far as a historical document, is the strongest from it's era. Even archeologist carry a Bible because its accuracy of history ie. Kings, Kingdoms, wars etc.

thomas , raymond, USA

If the tablet was from before Christ, then it was a re-iteration of Isaiah which also talk about Christ rising from the Dead - it's called prophecy. It does not cast doubt on the resurrection.

Jay, Charlotte, NC

It is apparent that many of those who commented are students of the Bibilical texts but not of the history of Christian Scripture. They certaintly are not scholars. They have defended or attacked the words and teachings of the Bible without bothering to study its genesis, development and authors.

Clifford Wiesner, Concord, CA, USA

To be a Christian is to believe that Jesus is God - No Compromise. Why people have such a hard time with this not faith, most people have faith in something. It's difficult for most because Jesus instructed us to die to ourselves and live for Him.
Man is self centered and has a hard time with this.

Kyle, Temecula, CA, USA

Its amazing how time and time again people try to disprove the Bible through archeology that it back fires. Every time a city or event that is mentioned in Bible is looked for is usually found. There has not been a single story in the Bible that has been found to be false. Thats a good record.

David Henard, Church Hill, TN, USA

"I contend that we are both atheists. I just believe in one fewer god than you do. When you understand why you dismiss all the other possible gods, you will understand why I dismiss yours." -- Stephen Henry Roberts

roger hedges, palm beach, florida, US

Nigel a fable really? i ask you sir. If you were walking down a road and saw an old dusty watch on the floor and picked it up would you assume that it simply appeared and put itself together? No it was made sir. Then how could you believe that we as humans much more complicated were not created?

Isaac , new york, USA

The Bible may be the word of God but it is the word of God as written by man. In my mind, that makes it fallible as man will certainly try to twist things to his interests.

Does it make Christianity wrong? I don't really think any religion has all the answers but the basic principals seem pretty sound. However, I'm not willing to take what is written in the modern Bible as the absolute truth.

Robert, Burgaw, USA

Well the bible was written 400 years after Jesus was supposed to have lived. Everything was passed down by word of mouth and we all know what happens when that happens. Quote " The bible was written to civilse man. When man is civilised you wont need the bible" what do you think?

Hal, Penzance, England

one thing is certain ... eventually we all will learn the truth. Wether you embrace Jesus as your savoir or reject him, you have that freedom. So relax, you get to seal your own deal.

dennis , O'Fallon, USA

It's all a fairy tale.

Bruce Northwood, Washington, D.C. , USA

Oh come on. In this day and age, why does any thinking rational adult continue to claim belief in the stories, myths, fables and 'miracles' of the Bible which they were taught as children? Used as a basis for morality, that's fine. But as entirely literally accurate and 'divine'? Not a chance.

Scott, Durham, NC, USA

The chicken of course, came first, then the chicken laid eggs. Thats the order of Gods creation, and amazingly the Son of God in perfect deity was there, in the bosom of His Father !

j brun, ballymena, ireland

The gates of heaven are open wide, the ways of man are narrow, i think are a true in this life.

Mary Morrell, Stockport, United Kingdom

Most people believe in God/gods but do not believe in the bible. They're Hindus, Confucianists, Buddhist, Sikhs. For people to drag up old texts from scripture, interpreting - or misinterpteting - dead sea scrolls and forgered artifacts testifies to blind faith rather than science and reason.

Dave Rotundo, Queen Creek,

It doesn't cast doubt, there are plenty of other books that look to The Prophet who cancels sin and raises after 3 days. These books have been kept by a people who are evidence of G*d:Jews so they can't be fable, but must contain life-sustaining laws. Jesus=sign of Jonah-read on Yom Kippur. Selah!

kate brennan, stockport, uk

that is some pretty stout ink huh

Rick C, VINCENT ALABAMA, USA

No one here is saying that God desn't exist, Daniel. I find it amusing- that for Christians-belief in God MUST go hand in hand with belief in Christ. There can be no other way. Simply seperating the ideas-one from another--does not negate everything spiritual. READ more my friend.

Michelle , San Fran, USA

...there is to support the question of whether Julius Caesar lived -Helen, Hull, UK

REALLY??? Wow. Ok, I'll bite. When/where was Jesus born. What specific day did he die? When were his parents born and when did they die? What books did Jesus write? Name 3 specific days & places we know he was at.

todd, Portland, OR, USA

For Bill, Dallas - The bible does not contain myths, especially Genesis, Most will agree. If you don't believe the foundation of the Bible- Genesis, you don't believe God. You do not believe His Word.

Jinel, Stamford, USA

zeitgeistmovie.com is a must watch for anyone, christians and athiests alike. Even if you do not agree 100% with what is in this documentary, it may open your eyes to a lot of things that you thought you knew.

Heather, Saratoga, USA

OK so the Bible is a fable? Then you must believe there is no God, right? Wow talk about closed-minded... Do you really believe that you were formed in all of your human complexity by chance? Why is it 'impossible' to beleive in God? Tell me: where does the universe end? Can't fathom this either?

Daniel Cook, Coos Bay, Oregon, USA

I see an amazing phenomena in all these post. Most of the comments from the USA are pro-christian. Most of the comments from the Easten hemisphere are anti-christian. It is true that much of the Western hemisphere is christian and the Eastern hemisphere are other religions or atheist.

Daniel, Georgia, USA

Billy Carlin, Paisley, Scotland, The same person who created the Chicken or was it the Egg?

Peter, Vancouver BC., Canada

I've seen a lot of opinions here, whether science or faith based, all I can say is that if you have no faith in anything then why are you still breathing my air? With nothing to believe in there is no reason to be. There is more to these multiverses than we know.

Paul Baratti, San Diego Ca., USA

To Nathan, in Toronto

Jesus is not a fictional character - there is more historical evidence supporting the question of whether he lived than there is to support the question of whether Julius Caesar lived - and who questions the existence of Julius Caesar?

Helen, Hull, UK

God allows science, can science not allow God? Both are not mutually exclusive, they compliment each other.

Paul Baratti, San Diego Ca., USA

Well, they would say that wouldn't they ...

Dr.Stuart M. Brown, Rickmansworth, UK

Acts 5:35-39

And he said to them: " Men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what you intend to do regarding these men. For some time ago Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody. A number of men, about four hundred joined him. He was slain, and all who obeyed were scattered and came to nothing.

John, Woodstock, USA

Please don't refer to your disbelief as sensible: obstinate yes; sensible hardly. If you have all the answers, by all means share them with the world; don't be selfish! The truth is you don't have the answers and it makes you feel important to scoff because you are under the influence of evil.

Shari, Palm Desert, CA, USA

For many Christ followers, the resurrection represents the turning point in humankind's relationship to God. It transitions us from the shame of falling short of following religious law(s) to accepting forgiveness, and therefore being empowered to pass forgiveness to those around us.

John, Atlanta, USA

Peace and love to you all.
The resurrection of Jesus is a historically
provable fact. 11 of the 12 original disciples
died painful deaths as martyrs to
prove it everyone what

they had witnessed

with their

own eyes.

Have you ever told a lie?
Would you die a painful death to uphold that lie?

Tim Timmington, Kansas City, USA

Matt-equating Apostles to Sucide bombers is unfair. Jesus Apostles witnessed Jesus' life. After witnessing His resurrection, they were willing to die for the truth. Would they die for what they knew to be a lie? Suicide bombers are misled into doing evil to others. Apostles did not murder. Big dif !

Steve, Houston, USA

This story makes me laugh a little. The Old Testament has many prophecies of Christ being born and how he would die and rise again. Of course people will continue to slam him down but time will tell whether Christians like me are right about Christ's victory over death.

Ian, Fort Worth, United States

Wow. Just wow.

"A true Christian is not swayed by tablets and things written on the back of candy wrappers."

Really? Where do you think your book came from in the first place? It was written by man, folks. And then translated and retranslated and edited to serve the needs of those in power

Adam, Henderson, USA

Are there any Christians outside the USA?? Judging from this site,,very few!!...Well the Bible also says "the fool says there is no God"....God gave you free will..believe or not....Guess that's why Jesus said the road to Heaven is tough and narrow,for FEW will ever find it...

Dannie, Four Oaks, USA

Guess there is indeed “nothing new under the sun.” It is not news that the prophecy of the resurrection of a messiah existed prior to the birth of Jesus. That’s precisely the point – that the birth, death, and resurrection all were accurately predicted hundreds of years prior the sequence of events.

Wayne, Akron, USA

The number and "passion" of Christian skeptics residing in the UK is alarming, thanks to a monarch who is a nominal Christian, herself and to the radically, left wing, liberal Archbishop of Canterbury. To bad the Brits aren't as adamant about the Hindus and Moslems who now have overrun the UK.

Nancie , Denver,

Think about how many different views are written today. Just because someone wrote something on a tablet 2000 years ago doesn't discredit anything. 2000 years from now if someone collected a conspiracy theorist's book on how the moon landing never happened that doesn't mean that it proves anything

Christian, Denver, USA

Let us be sensible and admit that there is as much truth in the story about Jesus as there is in the story of Santa Claus. This doesn't mean however that God is non-existent just that motivated persons make up stories about Him. Rarely do people want the actual truth; they prefer what suits them.

Lance Poll, Manchester,

Eric, London
Couldn't have put it better myself. Totally agree.

John Logue, Christchurch, New Zealand

Why are there christians enforcing their beliefs on others, like jesus believes in you & is the way & the truth? It doesnt matter anymore because most humans now worship God & not idols, albeit in different ways but its the same, whether a jew, christian, muslim, hindu,zoroasrtian or budhist.

Heath, Surrey, Egypt

"What happens in the New Testament was adopted by Jesus and his followers based on an earlier messiah story.”

And what if this "messiah story" as the writer calls it was in fact a prophecy? I had no idea that prophets had to copywright their work. Nothing is disproven here. Perhaps confirmed.

Emanuel, Philadelphia, USA

Ummm.....so does this explain why the followers of Christ willingly died because they SAW Him alive after He was crucified? I don't know many men that would willingly die for what they know to be a lie.

Keith , Omaha, US

God loves you Prof. Knohl. You are blind to the facts.
Please look at all the evidence and you will believe.

The manuscript evidence for the Bible is better than most historical manuscripts that are accepted as true by the scientific
community

Charlie Jones, Cashiers, USA

Why is this news? The bible foretold the messiah rising in 3 days and is was written long before this table.

Bill, Hamden, usa

The reading of the text is disputed. Gods did not frequently die and rise three days later in antiquity, and Messiah (which is what Simon claimed to be) is not equivalent to "divine Son of God". Simon is simply a failed messiah who will be resurrected (at the end of time) as a righteous martyr.

David Cavanagh, Naples, Italy

Isn't it funny that all the non believers have a field day on something like this, but have yet to disprove anything in the Bible. The Bible is a magnificent historical document. I challenge anyone to actually PROVE it to be fake or fable, such as Josh McDowell set out to do, but couldn't.

Nina, Atlanta, USA

As for the idea that there was a wide-spread expectation of a dying and rising Messiah!!??? The distinctive claim of early Christianity is that the general, eschatological resurrection of the dead has broken into the middle of history in the case of one individual -and no one expected that.

David Cavanagh, Naples, Italy

It is beyond the realm of reasonable doubt that the Disciples would suffer martyrdom, and persecutions for a story that they fabricated. It maybe possible for one, or two, people to be willing to suffer such hardships for a lie. But 12 people? That is way beyond the realm of reasonable doubt.

barry witt, berea, USA

Jesus is a fictional character like Hercules, or Robin Hood. Of course he is not the source of the resurrection myth because:

a) he wasn't a real person
b) we have numerous examples of other fictional resurrections long before christianity came along.

Instead of the bible try a history text.

Nathan, Toronto, Canada

The Old Testament has many references to a messiah who will die and be resurrected. The tablet is nothing new, so to speak.

Calvin, San Antonio, United States of America

Folks - calm down.....Christ's life was predicted in the book of Isaiah, chapter 53 which was written between 700 and 800 B.C. This article doesn't disprove anything. The only issue is the "rising after three days" sentence and that is apparently only visible to those who want to see it.

Colleen Anderson, Denver, Colorado

Biblical doctrines never claimed only one man would rise from death. Miracles occured in OT and NT times. The Messiah foretold in the Old Testament would fulfill more than sixty prophecies, not just resurrection and ascension after 3 days. Only one man in history has fulfilled them all, Jesus.

Amanda, Richmond, KY, USA

For Nigel Davies - Yes the Bible does contain fables (parable of the Vineyard) and well as poetry (Psalms), myth (Early Genesis, though some will disagree) and history (Pharoahs of Egypt, King David, Herod's temple, pool of Siloam, geographical veracity of St. Paul's journeys etc).

Bill , Dallas, USA

Lazarus was raised after several days by Jesus. If God allowed the angel Gabriel to command the resurrection of a man named Simon then it is His power to do so. None of this changes the fact that Jesus is God's only son who came to die for the sins of man. He is the way, the truth, and the light.

Stacey Sistrunk, Ellisville, MS, USA

The irony is that God has presently given man the opportunity to "judge" Him (see Romans 3:3 & 4). The day is coming when He will judge us according to whether or not we believe in His Son, a belief hinging on His resurrection (see Hebrews 9:27, John 3:16 - 21, and I Corinthians 15: 3 -8).

Molly Kerce, Lake City, FL, U.S.A.

This doesn't cast doubt. The difference between Simon and Jesus is that Jesus actually did raise from the dead. To Realist Bradford UK, quite the contrary, science actually supports the validity of the Bible, if you accept current standards of scientific proof for manuscript authenticity.

Jim Amis, Ringgold, GA, USA

From what I understand, carbon dating is only good on artifacts that are 1,000 years or less old. Older artifacts will date close but will be off a 100 years one way or another. So, how is it that all of a sudden the carbon dating is perfect for this artifact vs. other non christian artifacts?

Stephanie DeCou, Boynton Beach, FL, USA

Holden, but what if you are wrong about Muhammad, Allah, Zeus or Thor? You are in just as much trouble as those who do not believe in Christ. I worry about being wrong about Christ to the exact same degree I worry about being wrong about Zeus -- not at all.

Bill, Columbus, USA

People have tried for years and years to prove that the bible is wrong but God's word will stand. The Messiah was foretold in Matthew ch.1 . God was still a spirit then when Jesus was born God became flesh. Jesus is the only name under heaven we can be saved by. No other religion.

Scottie, Greenville, USA

The bible is just a collection of pagan stories put together to control the gullible. Most of these individual stories are in the public domain. The excellent zeitgeistmovie.com does a brilliant job of putting these together. These silly people are worshiping the Sun. Who created and taught god?

Billy Carlin, Paisley, Scotland

Just as Christ was persecuted, so is the Christian. I would rather live my life as if there were a God, die and find out there wasn't, than live my life as if there were no God, die and find out there was. Where will you spend eternity? I know where I will be.

Janell, Troy, USA

Ha ha! I love that everyday we seem to find more and more evidence against the religious fairy tale believers! The sight of them squirming in front of the undeniable glare of logic and rationality is extremely satisfying for those of us who grow tired with the lies and damage caused by religion.

DPI, Manchester, UK

So where's the news? These people must not realize that the Old Testament of the Bible is full of prophecies related to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Why would the prediction of this tablet make any difference in anyone's belief?

M, Dayton OH, USA

Eugene from Heidelberg said: "Jesus was just a prophet for God's sake!"

Eugene, Jesus was a prophet (and more) not for God's sake, but for yours.......

David Buckenmyer, Las Vegas, Nevada

Eric: If I am wrong about Christ, , at most, I have spent my life believing the fairytale, as you call it, but it is beautiful and has done me much good. But, oh, my friend, if you are wrong, what then? In the wee quiet hours or the night, are you so sure?

Holden, Charleston, usa

jesus the messiah was foretold by the prophets jewish history also states that they were looking for the messiah at this same period of time in history so the tablet may have been written to try and discredit Gods word amazing that 40 authors over a 1500 year period from all walks of life agree.

shawn, columbia, usa

Interesting choice of words Eric, "dribblingly mad", for someone portraying himself as a man of science and reason, why such angry and bitter words?

Phil Bryant, Katy, USA

I sniff a fake. "Written" on a stone tablet? How convenient for the sceptics. Apparently Prof Knohl's grasp of Jewish/Christian history is more tentative than mine. He's the first I've heard of to "miss" the link twixt the two. Methinks his book sales are down, and dissin' JC is always good for that

Dan, Small New England Town, US

Having read all the comments, all I have to say to those who don't believe the truth, is that when Christ returns to judges the world and says to you "Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels", what'll you say then? I'd debate futher if I had the space.

Matt, Manchester,

Many here seem to be ugly toward those whose beliefs are different from their own.
The begining of wisdom is, "I do not know."
Everything from the smallest particle to the most massive black hole & all points in between, fit together perfectly 100% of the time. By accident? (I Don't Know hmmm?)

Robert, Orange, United States

Did it ever occur to anyone that people back then wrote their own biased "opinions," just as we do today?

Kathryn, Pgh, USA

Do we now then worship Simon?

Will, London,

Fortunately, science and reason are slowly culling the numbers who believe these fairy tales and it is now the preserve of the dribblingly mad
Eric, London,
Eric, well over a billion people are dribblingly mad, just because they don't agree with you.
PS The number of those who believe is growing.

Colin Wilson, Milton Keynes,

For 200+ years now SCIENCE has been eroding the credibility of Christianity(religion) through rational, empirical experimentation on the observable universe and will continue to do so. Eventually, humans will truly be enlightened and can leave these ideas where they came from, the stone/iron age

Realist, Bradford, UK

Jesus loves you Professor Knohl!

Nick, London,

Christianty makes historical claims (the various actions and events of Jesus's life) and as such must (and in its best guises does) engage with the historical evidence availble. The discovery of more evidence makes the essential task of engagement increasingly possible, interesting and rewarding.

Dan, Oxford, UK

Jesus said he was fulfilling Jewish prophecy! In para 2 of the article we read "the tablet appears to refer to a Messiah" and in para 4 "the most controversial lines were indecipherable" - from which Professor Knohl concludes it is a "widely held messianic story."

Janet, Solihull, England

Jesus was just a prophet, for God's sake!

Eugene, heidelberg, germany

Overhype indeed. To have a god die and be resurrected in 3 days was common as rhubarb in pre Christian religions of the area. Osiris of Ancient Egypt comes to mind. Certainly it's in the Jewish mythos. Jesus motifs are not all original.

Jilli Roberts, Hobart, Australia

Christianity is a cult and, as such, resistant to proof, argumentation, reason. It is a form of collective insanity that inflicts a great deal of harm. Fortunately, science and reason are slowly culling the numbers who believe these fairy tales and it is now the preserve of the dribblingly mad

Eric, London,

Bibliolaters will of course continue to deny the obvious truth.
Every one of the disparate books comprising what we call the Bible is a work of solely human authorship, and of human imagination.
They are not reliable sources of historical truth. Not one of them.

tony peterson, kendal, UK

That's All Folks!

Nigel Wroe, Doncaster, Yorkshire

If organized religion was to have any of its intended impact, the first thing to do would be to assemble the leaders of the world's 3 major faiths and have them agree that it's all the same god.

RD, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

If JC didn't rise from the dead and ascend into Heaven, then his body must have become part of the planet. “But rising/ascending shouldn't be taken literally; he ascended into Heaven in spirit."
Sure, sure. More fudge than a sweet shop. When I snap my fingers you will wake up and smell the coffee.

Andrew Milner, Karuizawa, Japan

Dave I have more reason to believe in Jesus existence than yours.

Glen, Johannesburg, RSA

Shock! Horror! Bible not true! Um, not exactly breaking news is it. But as they believe God provided dinosaur fossils to test the faithful I am sure this will have no effect on said faithful whatsoever, except to make them annoyed. Always entertaining that!

martyn, calvia, spain

Am I confused! Jesus was a Jew. The New Testament is a Jewish narrative, itself written by Jews. I was born and raised a catholic in Australia. I have been taught and believe that Judaism is part of my identity in this 21st century. There is no missing link to Judaism. I am proof of that.

lex, Brisbane, Australia

Robert Hallsted - the reason the apostle were ready to die for it is the same reason Palestinian suicide bombers are ready to die for their own cause. I don't support either the apostles or the suicide bombers but people will do anything if they believe strongly enough in something.

Matt, Sydney, Australia

What next? "Scientists in 'dead man did not come to life' shocker!"

Fairy tales for the gullible and simple minded. Spend less time on God and more time on eachother and the world would be a better place. Try that for morality instead of some list of outdated principles.

Andy, Singapore,

Knohl has preconceived notion, see prior writings, of interpre -tation that undermines his objectivity. People believe what they want to without investigating. Let them read "The Evidence for the Resurrection*"J.N.D. Anderson. If it is a fiction how come apostles were ready to die for it. Look it up

Robert Hallsted, Middletown, USA

Religion is a closed system that cannot be broken into from the outside - whenever a question like this is raised the answer is always the same, "God did it, so it's a mystery." This tablet is therefore of little practical significance to anyone's lives.

Liam, Stoke, UK

All of the people putting in quotes from the Christian bible as some way of justifying their faith are missing the point badly.
The point being that Christian doctrine is based on mythology which was lifted from many other faiths. The Bible should not be used as a historical reference document.

Howard, Tokyo,

The usual overhyped headline of which we expect better from the Times. Professor Knohl's reading of the tablet in no way "casts