Contradictions: Challenging Dogma

The gospel, penned in a dialect Alistair vaguely recognized as a precursor to Aramaic, presented a radically different account of Jesus's teachings. Passages spoke of self-discovery rather than blind faith, of questioning divine authority rather than accepting it. These were not mere theological nuances; they were direct contradictions to the established doctrines of the Church.

One passage, in particular, detailed a conversation between Jesus and Judas, not as a betrayal, but as a necessary act to fulfill a greater, albeit darker, prophecy. This challenged the very foundation of Christian morality, painting Judas not as a villain, but as a tragic hero burdened with a terrible destiny. Alistair felt a chill crawl down his spine as he considered the implications.