Arguments Against The Swoon Theory
Three opposing arguments will be examined for the resurrection of Christ. Many arguments have been made against the resurrection throughout the years, but the three most popular theories will be explained. After the opposing arguments are explained, four arguments for the resurrection will be presented to refute those claims.
The Swoon Theory
The swoon theory or Apparent Death theory suggests that Jesus was not actually dead, but merely had fainted or passed out. Other sources also suggest that Jesus was possibly in a coma. After being placed in the tomb, Jesus somehow recovered from his fatal wounds, escaped, and convinced his disciples that he rose from the dead. Karl Venturini introduced the Swoon theory in 1768, but many variations …show more content…
Accordingly, interpretations based on the assumption that Jesus did not die on the cross appear to be at odds with modern medical knowledge.
Based off pure medical knowledge, the death of Jesus seems certain. Many medical professionals have examined the account of Jesus’ death based solely from a medical standpoint. Evidence points to Jesus being dead. The second major flaw in the Swoon theory is found in John 19:40. Here, is an account of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus embalming Jesus. This process was in accordance with the Jewish burial customs. McCane explained the embalming process: “The eyes of the deceased were closed, the corpse was washed with perfumes and ointments, its bodily orifices were stopped, and strips of cloth were wrapped tightly around the body--binding the jaw closed, fixing arms to the sides, and tying the feet together.” It would seem highly unlikely for Joseph or Nicodemus to embalm a live …show more content…
The Jews started the rumor found in Matthew 28:11-15. The author of Matthew stated that, “the chief priest gave the soldiers a large sum of money, and told them you are to say, ‘his disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.’” According to Groothuis, the stolen body argument can be found in other ancient writings such as those by Tertullian and Justin Martyr. Because the stolen body theory was recorded in other ancient documents, gives claim that the theory was circulating for quite some time. Some skeptics still believe the claim to be true and continue to circulate the story of a stolen
The Swoon Theory
The swoon theory or Apparent Death theory suggests that Jesus was not actually dead, but merely had fainted or passed out. Other sources also suggest that Jesus was possibly in a coma. After being placed in the tomb, Jesus somehow recovered from his fatal wounds, escaped, and convinced his disciples that he rose from the dead. Karl Venturini introduced the Swoon theory in 1768, but many variations …show more content…
Accordingly, interpretations based on the assumption that Jesus did not die on the cross appear to be at odds with modern medical knowledge.
Based off pure medical knowledge, the death of Jesus seems certain. Many medical professionals have examined the account of Jesus’ death based solely from a medical standpoint. Evidence points to Jesus being dead. The second major flaw in the Swoon theory is found in John 19:40. Here, is an account of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus embalming Jesus. This process was in accordance with the Jewish burial customs. McCane explained the embalming process: “The eyes of the deceased were closed, the corpse was washed with perfumes and ointments, its bodily orifices were stopped, and strips of cloth were wrapped tightly around the body--binding the jaw closed, fixing arms to the sides, and tying the feet together.” It would seem highly unlikely for Joseph or Nicodemus to embalm a live …show more content…
The Jews started the rumor found in Matthew 28:11-15. The author of Matthew stated that, “the chief priest gave the soldiers a large sum of money, and told them you are to say, ‘his disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.’” According to Groothuis, the stolen body argument can be found in other ancient writings such as those by Tertullian and Justin Martyr. Because the stolen body theory was recorded in other ancient documents, gives claim that the theory was circulating for quite some time. Some skeptics still believe the claim to be true and continue to circulate the story of a stolen