The answer
This theory is devoid of accuracy, and is pure fabrication. It can be responded to.
Firstly: The Crucifixion of Christ did not happen suddenly, nor did take place hastily. It occurred after five trials-from 9 on the eve of Great Thursday, to 9 on the morning of Great Friday-before witnesses, governors, high priests, and the people. How is it possible that after all of these that there is doubt concerning the identity of the Crucified, being that Christ is well known in his Jewish community?!
Secondly: The witness of the prophets concerning the Crucifixion of Christ prior to its occurrence by hundreds of years. Here are some references: Ps. 22; 69; Isa. 53; Lam. 3:14, 15, 30.
Thirdly: The discourse of Christ Himself to His disciples concerning the Crucifixion prior to its occurrence: Matt. 20:17-19; 26:2, 21; Mark 8:31; 14:18.
Fourthly: Christ remained hanging on the Cross from noon on Great Friday, to 3 in the afternoon, prior to giving up the spirit. At 5, He was taken down from the Cross, and the shrouding and the burial were concluded at 6. If there was the least bit of doubt concerning the identity of the Crucified, the family members or the friends of the Crucified would have certainly objected to the error, as some claim.
It is impossible that the personality of Christ was confused for another, especially since He was a known personality to all of the people at the different classes.
Fifthly: The non-Christian historical sources, such as:
- ❖ The Antiquities of the Jews by the Jewish historian Josephus.
- ❖ The detailed account of Christ’s trials, which were relied upon by ‘Abbās El-aqqād in his book, The Genius of Christ.
Sixthly: Presence of the remaining relics of the Cross, the nails in numerous churches and museums all over the world, and the Holy Shroud in the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Turin in Italy.
His Holiness Pope Tawadros II
Pope Tawadros II, My Faith: A Series of Dialogues on the Creed (Coptic Orthodox Patriarchate, 2014), 94–96.
The pages in the book (94–96)
