The Wife of Jesus: Ancient Texts and Modern Scandals - Hardcover

'A marvellous survey of ancient and modern attitudes toward Jesus' possible marriage.' * Maclean's * 'An impressive work from beginning to end, "The Wife of Jesus: Ancient Texts and Modern Scandals" is a fascinating, informed, informative, and iconoclastic work that is as thoughtful and thought-provoking as it is well written and presented. Enhanced with extensive notes, an impressive nine page bibliography, and a reference index as well as a subject index, [it] is highly recommended reading and will make an enduringly popular addition to community and academic library Christian Studies collections.' * The Midwest Book Review * 'Reasonable, provocative [and] courageous... Le Donne reaches his conclusion with much careful thought and analysis.' * Chicago Tribune * 'Despite a subject matter that is sure to be provocative, Le Donne manages not to take sides but also reminds readers that our ideas on Jesus' sexuality and marital status show more about us than they do about him. A welcome resource and fresh voice.' * Kirkus Reviews * 'Anthony Le Donne balances strong scholarship with sensitivity as he lays out the possibilities in The Wife of Jesus: Ancient Texts and Modern Scandals. This is an eminently readable book for nonspecialists and specialists alike that contributes to the discussion with clarity and candor even as it challenges readers to ask what it is about ourselves that we might learn from our curiosity and concern.' * Publishers Weekly *

The idea that Jesus was married continues to incite fierce debate. But most who address the topic either dismiss the possibility or propound conspiracy theories. Amid the storm of controversy, Le Donne provides a haven of clarity and sense. Approaching the subject from a fresh, historical perspective, Le Donne places Jesus firmly within a socio-cultural context and, by investigating gender and marriage norms, provocatively argues that Jesus could well have been married - although not to Mary Magdalene.