Mad Jesus

By T. J. Knab

Book Description

In the remote mountains of Mexico, anthropologist T. J. Knab encountered a figure who would haunt his research for decades. This gripping account chronicles his fieldwork among the Huichol people and his disturbing interactions with a charismatic religious leader known as Jesus, whose influence extended far beyond traditional boundaries.

What begins as scholarly observation transforms into something far more unsettling. Knab documents his frightening encounters with this enigmatic figure, whose magnetic presence drew followers into a world where indigenous spirituality collided with messianic fervor. The narrative spans years of fieldwork, culminating in the author's quest to uncover the truth behind Jesus's violent death in a police confrontation three decades later.

This compelling work offers readers more than a personal account of anthropological research. It provides deep insights into Huichol culture and the broader struggles facing Mesoamerican indigenous communities. Through Knab's experiences, we witness the complex interplay between traditional shamanic practices and Catholic influences, the formation of messianic movements, and the tensions that arise when ancient ways of life encounter modern state authority.

For those drawn to understanding how spiritual movements emerge and evolve, this book presents a raw, unfiltered look at the intersection of anthropology, religion, and human psychology. Knab's narrative reveals how charismatic figures can shape entire communities while challenging our assumptions about faith, power, and cultural transformation.