World's Oldest Church, The
Book Description
Discover how one remarkable archaeological find transforms our understanding of the earliest Christian community. Michael Peppard takes readers on a fascinating journey into the third-century house-church at Dura-Europos, the oldest known Christian building ever uncovered.
This groundbreaking exploration challenges long-held beliefs about early Christian practices and symbolism. Rather than focusing on themes of death and resurrection as traditionally assumed, Peppard reveals how this ancient sacred space actually emphasized empowerment, healing, marriage, and divine incarnation. Through careful analysis of the church's intricate wall paintings, he presents a revolutionary interpretation that reshapes our perception of early Christian spirituality.
The author's bold reexamination includes a striking reidentification of a female figure previously thought to represent a repentant sinner, now understood as the Virgin Mary herself. This shift illuminates how the earliest Christians may have approached their faith with greater emphasis on life-affirming themes than previously recognized.
Richly illustrated throughout its 344 pages, this scholarly yet accessible work bridges the worlds of biblical studies, art history, and religious practice. For those seeking to understand the authentic roots of Christian spirituality, Peppard offers fresh insights into how ancient believers created sacred spaces that reflected their deepest spiritual convictions. This comprehensive study provides valuable perspective on the intersection of faith, community, and artistic expression in the formative centuries of Christianity.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~10 hours)
📄 Length: 344 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Syria, history
- ✓ Explore Religious Studies
- ✓ Explore Church history, primitive and early church, ca. 30-600
- ✓ Explore Christianity
- ✓ Explore Early Christian Art
- ✓ Explore History
- ✓ Explore Christian art and symbolism
- ✓ Explore Antiquities
