We've all heard elaborate tales of the deaths of two prominent Romans who died within a century of one another, both betrayed by trusted companions, both beloved by the masses, both claiming divine heritage, both with the initials "J.C.". Better minds than mine have thought that the Jesus tale has some startling similarities to that of Julius Caesar. The final nail in the coffin* in my mind is something I heard just the other day. Cassius -- you know, lean and hungry?-- had the full name Gaius Cassius Longinus. The spearman who stabbed Jesus? Longinus. I mean, come on. The name isn't in the Bible, either. Like Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar, his name came to Christian legend post-scriptum. So there you have it.
* carefully avoiding crucifixion joke
Look on my posts, ye mighty, and despair.
6 comments:
I thought it was Gaspar.
From Wikipedia:
Names: Balthasar, Melchior, and Caspar (or Gaspar)
Gaius, like on Battlestar Galactica. Wicked.
Also, Judas and Brutus rhyme.
Yes! You finally admit that the wise men's names are apocryphal! How long have I waited for this day?
On a strange connection lea, I have and like the song "Gaspar's Back" by the Retros. I even wrote a substantial program by that name, except spelled GASPER, however that's both a respiratory and an acrostic joke.
Also, I think you should know that I still get this wonderful, little rush of pride whenever I use a word like "apocryphal" correctly, thinking it a word that Alex would appreciate.
I have admitted for some time, just never had the guts to tell you about it. I'd like to thank you all for going on this journey along with me.
I insist you post to the LJ every time you use one. I will judge from there, but I think it is safe to assume your assessment is accurate.
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