Pagan and Christian Creeds: Their Origin and Meaning

by Edward Carpenter

Overview

Edward Carpenter's book is a fascinating account of the relation between Christian and pagan belief-systems. Drawing on a wide range of sources, the author shows the continuity of theological and cosmological thought that underpins both Christianity and other earlier religions. The parallels are striking: long before Christianity, as Carpenter points out, many pagans worshipped god-men born of virgin mothers on the 25th December. This perceptive analysis covers such topics as rites of expiation and redemption, the use of sacraments and eucharist, the blood sacrifice, and solar mythology, ranging across a wide swathe of ancient and tribal beliefs and finding numerous points of correspondence with Christian dogma. An intriguing feast of fact and startling 'coincidences', and a must-read for anyone interested in esotericism, pagan ritual or the origins of Christianity.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9798823121392
Publisher:	Barnes & Noble Press
Publication date:	09/22/2022
Pages:	572
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.50(h) x 1.27(d)

About the Author

Edward Carpenter (29 August 1844 – 28 June 1929) was an English utopian socialist, poet, philosopher, anthologist, an early activist for gay rights and prison reform whilst advocating vegetarianism and taking a stance against vivisection. As a philosopher he was particularly known for his publication of Civilisation: Its Cause and Cure.