Christianity Quote by D.M. Murdock
““Concerning Attis, apologist Weigall remarks: Then again, there was the worship of Attis, a very popular religion which must have influenced the early Christians. Attis was the Good Shepherd, the son of Cybele, the Great Mother, or alternatively, of the Virgin Nana, who conceived him without union with mortal man, as in the story of the Virgin Mary... In Rome the festival of his death and resurrection was annually held from March 22nd to 25th; and the connection of this religion with Christianity is shown by the fact that in Phrygia, Gaul, Italy and other countries where Attis-worship was powerful, the Christians adopted the actual date, March 25th, as the anniversary of our Lord's passion.258””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Ancient World, 1975
Highlights possible influence of Attis worship on early Christian traditions and shared dates.
In simple terms: Attis worship may have shaped Christian practices.
Consider historical syncretism.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic research
- theological study
- interfaith dialogue
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What other cultural overlaps exist?
- How does syncretism affect modern faith?
Evidence is largely speculative.