"There can be no doubt that nearly 2,000 years ago a Jewish charismatic was judicially murdered. This was an unremarkable event. Palestine was in ferment, Jews and Romans were at bitter odds and the authorities often reacted ferociously in the face of any perceived threat." "Geza Vermes uses his unique skills to pick apart this extraordinary story. Using all the sources available, he looks afresh with great learning and warmth at a story encrusted in myth, fabrication and misunderstanding, and gets as close as possible to the truth behind those few fateful days in Jerusalem."--BOOK JACKET.

In his new book distinguished Jesus scholar Geza Vermes explains the true story behind The Passion of Christ and the recent, highly controversial, film. Vital reading for anyone wanting to know the truth behind the hyperbole Vermes's book is an intelligent and fascinating breakdown of the evidence of the Trial of Jesus and an authentic version of Stations of the Cross. A general introduction dealing with the Jewish court system, the Romen legal procedure and parallel court cases aims to provide a context to The Passion and a greater understanding of Biblical society. Written by the greatest Jesus scholar of his generation this will be required reading for anyone wanting to know the truth.