Buddhism in Christendom or Jesus the Essene

Buddhism in Christendom or Jesus the Essene by Arthur Lillie explores the controversial theory that early Christianity, particularly the teachings of Jesus, was heavily influenced by Buddhism. Lillie argues that Jesus was an Essene, a Jewish sect with spiritual practices resembling Buddhist principles, and suggests parallels between the lives of Buddha and Jesus, such as virgin birth, temptation, miracles, and ethical teachings. Drawing on comparative religion, apocryphal texts, and Eastern philosophy, the book challenges orthodox Christian narratives. Though widely debated and considered speculative, it contributed to 19th-century interest in syncretism and the cross-cultural roots of religious traditions.