Alexander the Great: Beyond the Divide, by Charles N. Pope not only “cuts the Gordian Knot” of Alexander research, but also unveils Alexander as the primary inspiration for Christ. Alexander was such a towering figure that at least some influence on emerging Christianity would be expected. However, upon closer inspection the parallels between Alexander and Jesus turn out to be both extensive and profound. Alexander the Great's birth had been "immaculately conceived" and then "celestially announced." He was a precocious youth that confounded his elders. He railed against conventional thinking (orthodoxy) and was revered everywhere, except by his own family and home town. His campaign began with a wedding. He cast out demons and was accused of having a demon. He fed the multitudes and spoke in parables. He was particularly fond of the mustard seed. He traveled incessantly. He prayed for those that spitefully used him. He walked on water and calmed the tempest. He was warned against entering his capital, but approached his prophesized demise with eager resolve. He was lifted up into the "heavens" and also descended to the "underworld." His higher calling was to attain a faraway kingdom, and one that could only be gained through a symbolic death and ascension. He comforted and later appeared to his followers. He moved mountains and enveloped those who believed in him from the onslaught of the godless. And the comparisons go on.
