Expert: Brenda Martin - 6/9/2005

Question
I heard of a theory that Jesus went to India in his 'lost years'(i.e ages 12 to 30 yrs.), what theories are there supporting this and also what theories are there that condradict this idea and how. I would also like to hear your view on this statement of Jesus visiting India.

Answer
Hi Mark, you asked if--"JESUS WENT TO INDIA IN HIS 'LOST YEARS?"

There is the OPINION that Jesus travelled to India. In fact, there's a tomb that has been discovered in Kashmir with the inscription ‘Yus Asaf,' meaning ‘Jesus the Gatherer.'

I am familiar with the Kashmir LEGENDS, and their claim that Jesus went to India seeking the so-called ‘lost tribes of Israel.' But the idea is pure SPECULATION. There is a complete absence of accounts by eyewitnesses and no written testimony, Jesus made no mention of the religious practices of India.

We do not know the extent to which Jesus' other followers served as missionaries in foreign lands. TRADITIONAL BELIEFS that Thomas went to India and Mark the evangelist went to Egypt cannot be confirmed either.

Jesus, unlike his Hindu contemporaries in India, did not subscribe to a discriminating caste system.

His public preaching was directed particularly to the people of Israel, Jesus' illustrations most frequently alluded to objects and activities that were part of their daily lives.

The bible tells us Jesus came to save the "holy ones of Israel" first and foremost, this began when he turned 30 and not before, only when they refused to listen to his teachings did Jesus then say to; "go to all the nations" this was done after Jesus death by his followers.

All the best
Brenda