From a Karaite Jewish perspective, Mel Gibson’s narrative—while cinematically powerful—is built upon a theological foundation that Karaites consider a departure from the "Source Code" of the Tanakh.
1. The "Nobody Dies for a Lie" Fallacy
Gibson points to the martyrdom of the Apostles as "verifiable history." A Karaite would argue that sincerity is not the same as truth. Throughout history, followers of various religions—including those Karaites consider "idolaters"—have died for their beliefs.
The Sinai Standard: Validity in the Torah is based on National Revelation (the entire nation witnessing the voice of God), not the private experiences or deaths of a few individuals.
Deuteronomy 13 Test: Even if a person performs wonders or dies for a cause, if they lead people toward a "new" god or a "new" law, the Torah commands their rejection.
2. The Concept of "Universal Sacrifice"
Gibson claims Jesus’ sacrifice was for "all mankind." This contradicts the core Karaite tenet of Individual Accountability.
Ezekiel 18:20: "The soul that sins, it shall die... the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him."
No Vicarious Atonement: The idea that one person can pay for the "ills" of another’s "fallen nature" is a "strategic syncretism" that mimics pagan concepts of human sacrifice. In the Torah, atonement is achieved through personal Teshuvah (repentance) and returning to the Law, not by proxy.
3. The "Non-Linear" Supernatural Exploration
The sequel’s focus on "supernatural realms" and "spiritual battles" moves even further away from the Peshat (plain meaning). Karaites emphasize the "revealed things" of the Law rather than the "hidden things" of mystical realms. They see such narratives as "hacked code" designed to emotionalize a story that has no basis in the unchanging, written Word of God.
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