Debunked: The Truth About Christianity's Alleged Plagiarism from Pagan Myths

Was Christianity Plagiarized from Pagan Myths?

Many people claim that Christianity borrowed its key teachings and stories from pagan myths that preceded it. However, a closer examination of the evidence shows that these claims are unfounded and not supported by historical facts. Let's explore some of the main arguments against the idea that Christianity plagiarized from pagan myths.

1. Crucifixion and Resurrection Parallels

One common claim is that other pagan gods were also crucified and resurrected, just like Jesus. However, when we examine the original legends, we find that these alleged crucified saviors were neither crucified nor resurrected in the same way as Jesus. For example, Osiris became the Lord of the Underworld after his death and did not experience a resurrection on Earth. The death-rebirth-death cycles in paganism have nothing to do with the once-and-for-all resurrection of Jesus.

2. Virgin Birth Parallels

Another claim is that pagan myths feature virgin births similar to Jesus' birth. However, a closer analysis reveals that these stories actually involve gods impregnating women, who are therefore not virgins by definition. In contrast, Mary, the mother of Jesus, was overshadowed by the Holy Spirit and had no sexual intercourse until after Jesus was born.

3. Eyewitness Testimony

The reliability of the resurrection accounts is a crucial aspect to consider. Unlike many alleged pagan myths, the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus were reported within the lifetime of eyewitnesses. The New Testament accounts were written soon after the events they record and were based on reliable testimony. This stands in stark contrast to the centuries-later reports cited by those who claim pagan influence on Christianity.

4. Late Sources

Many sources used to support the idea of pagan influence on Christianity are dated much later than Paul and the early Christian movement. It is illogical to assume that beliefs or practices from the third or fourth century AD would have influenced Christianity in the first century AD. The chronology simply does not support the claim of borrowing.

5. Exclusive Faith

Early Christianity was an exclusivistic faith, in contrast to the nonexclusive nature of pagan mystery religions. In order to become a Christian, one had to forsake all other "saviors" and devote themselves entirely to the Lord Jesus Christ. The syncretism advocated by proponents of Christian-pagan borrowing is inconsistent with the early Christian teachings.

6. Historical vs. Nonhistorical

The events central to Christianity, such as the death and resurrection of Jesus, are firmly rooted in historical events. The mysticism of pagan mystery religions, on the other hand, is essentially nonhistorical. Pagan myths were symbolic representations of initiates' experiences, whereas Christianity affirms that Jesus' death and resurrection happened to a historical person at a specific time and place. This distinction sets Christianity apart from pagan religions.

Why This Matters

Understanding the differences between Christianity and pagan myths is important for several reasons. First, it clarifies the unique nature of Christian beliefs and helps us appreciate their historical basis. Second, it counters the false claim that Christianity borrowed its teachings from earlier pagan myths. Third, it strengthens our confidence in the reliability and historicity of the New Testament accounts.

Think About It

When examining claims of Christian-pagan borrowing, it is essential to critically evaluate the evidence and consider the credibility of the sources used. Just as we expect careful analysis and logical reasoning from proponents of intelligent design when discussing evolution, we should apply the same standards when assessing claims about the origins of Christianity.

In conclusion, the idea that Christianity plagiarized from pagan myths is not supported by historical evidence. Claims regarding crucifixion and resurrection parallels, virgin birth parallels, eyewitness testimony, late sources, exclusivity of faith, and the distinction between historical and nonhistorical events all point to the unique nature of Christianity. By critically examining these claims, we can appreciate the distinctiveness of Christian beliefs and their historical foundation.