Killing the Messiah

Nathanael Andrade offers a fresh and fascinating exploration of the most famous trial in history: Jesus of Nazareth before Pontius Pilate. His findings are neither conspiratorial nor sacrilegious but arrive at a historically reasoned account of the evidence as to the how and why of Jesus’ trial and crucifixion. Andrade’s interrogation of Roman, Christian, and Syriac sources shines new light on Roman jurisprudence in the eastern theatre of the empire. * Rev. Dr. Michael F. Bird, Deputy Principal, Ridley College *With an ancient historian’s knowledge of the wider context, Andrade deftly probes into the motivations of characters involved in Jesus’ execution. Controversially, we learn that another Roman governor might have handled things differently, and that Pilate’s positive reputation amongst Christians ever since is thoroughly undeserved. Clearly written and learned, this is an excellent treatment of the most important trial of all time. * Helen K. Bond, Professor of Christian Origins, School of Divinity, University of Edinburgh *

Nathanael J. Andrade is Professor of History at Binghamton University (SUNY). His books include Syrian Identity in the Greco-Roman World, The Journey of Christianity to India in Late Antiquity: Networks and the Movement of Culture, and Zenobia: Shooting Star of Palmyra.