Jesus (Yeshua) of Nazareth (c. 4 BCE – c. 30 CE) was a Jewish spiritual teacher whose life and message became the foundation of Christianity.
He is regarded by Christians as the son of God and the long-awaited Messiah, and his influence has shaped religious thought, ethics, and culture across centuries.
Birth and Early Life
He was born in Bethlehem, in the Roman province of Judea, to Mary and Joseph. His birth is traditionally described as miraculous, marked by angelic announcements and the visit of wise men bearing symbolic gifts. Due to political threats, his family fled to Egypt shortly after his birth, later returning to settle in Nazareth.
Hidden Years and Preparation
Little is known of his early years, though he is believed to have trained as a stone worker (Greek: tekton). His public life began around age thirty, following his baptism by John the Baptist in the Jordan River.
Wilderness and Public Ministry
After a period of fasting and reflection in the wilderness, Jesus began preaching throughout Galilee and Judea.
Teachings and Miracles
His teachings emphasized love, forgiveness, humility, and the nearness of the Kingdom of God. He often taught in parables and was known for healing the sick and performingTeachings and Miracles other signs.
Disciples and Opposition
He gathered a group of disciples, including twelve who became central to his ministry. His message challenged religious authorities and social norms, which led to growing opposition.
Crucifixion and Resurrection
Jesus was arrested in Jerusalem during Passover, tried by Jewish and Roman authorities, and crucified under the Roman prefect Pontius Pilate.
His followers believed he rose from the dead three days later, appearing to them before ascending into heaven. This event became the cornerstone of Christian belief, interpreted as divine confirmation of his identity and mission.
Legacy and Global Reverence
His followers formed the early Christian community, which spread throughout the Roman Empire and beyond. His teachings were recorded in the four canonical Gospels and became central to Christian doctrine.
Over time, Christianity developed into one of the world’s major religions, with diverse traditions and interpretations. Jesus remains a central figure in global religious history, revered not only in Christianity but also respected in other faiths, including Islam, where he is considered a prophet.
Jay N. Forrest
Rev. Dr. Jay N. Forrest, D.Min., is the founder of Zentheism and an ordained Interfaith minister with over forty years of spiritual leadership. A certified meditation teacher with deep theological training and decades of ministry experience, he is deeply rooted in Christianity and Buddhism, drawing also on the mystical wisdom of Daoism, Stoicism, Neoplatonism, and Advaita Vedānta. Zentheism is a synthesis of these traditions, blending meditative awareness with theistic devotion and inviting seekers into union with God.