St. Paul and the Mystery-Religions

What it is

This is a book written by H. A. A. Kennedy, a professor of New Testament studies in Edinburgh, published in 1913. It explores how Paul's letters and ideas relate to the Hellenistic mystery-religions that existed in the Greco-Roman world.

Why it matters

Early twentieth-century scholars were very interested in how early Christianity, including Paul's writings, connected to the wider religious culture of the ancient Mediterranean. This book reflects that scholarly debate and shows how later writers have tried to understand Paul by placing him in his historical setting.

Look closer

• Why might scholars compare Paul's ideas to other religions of his time?
• What can a book like this tell us about how later generations tried to understand ancient figures?
• What is the difference between studying Paul through his own letters and studying him through later scholarship?