While the book became a popular sensation, it is widely criticized or dismissed by mainstream academic historians.
: Freke and Gandy claim the Jesus story parallels myths of "Osiris-Dionysus"—god-men who were born of virgins, turned water into wine, and rose from the dead. The Jesus mysteries : was the "original Jesus" ...
: Critics point out that the authors often cite no primary ancient sources for their claims about "standard" godman myths. While the book became a popular sensation, it
: They argue the Gospels were never intended as eyewitness history. Instead, they were "Outer Mysteries" (spiritual allegories) designed to guide beginners toward "Inner Mysteries" or secret mystical knowledge (Gnosis). turned water into wine