Paul Was The Rich Young Ruler Mentioned In Three Gospels

Introduction

This article explores a compelling theory suggesting that the figure known as Paul, the Apostle, is the same individual referred to as the rich young ruler in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. This perspective delves into the purported Herodian lineage of Paul, his alleged role as a figure who diverged from original teachings, and a reinterpretation of the rich young ruler parable. This analysis challenges conventional understandings of biblical figures and narratives, proposing a hidden history and a subtle shift away from the initial message of Jesus.

Paul: The Rich Young Ruler Reimagined

A provocative interpretation suggests that the rich young ruler encountered by Jesus in the Gospels was, in fact, Paul himself, who may have also been known as Apollonius of Tyana. In this view, the parable’s central message extends beyond a simple renunciation of material wealth. Instead, it is argued that Jesus’ instruction to “sell all your possessions” was a profound call to relinquish deeply ingrained, erroneous spiritual beliefs and understandings.

Paul, having been raised within the Herodian household, was said to possess not only considerable physical wealth but also a vast, albeit flawed, spiritual knowledge. His upbringing reportedly exposed him to various mystical and religious traditions, which, according to this theory, fostered a spiritual pride that hindered his ability to embrace new truths. The parable, therefore, can be seen as a metaphor for the intellectual and spiritual arrogance that can prevent individuals from truly grasping divine wisdom. Paul’s failure to inquire further when told to shed his possessions is interpreted as his assumption that Jesus was referring solely to physical assets, thereby missing the deeper spiritual implication. This recontextualization implies that Paul’s subsequent theological developments, particularly his emphasis on grace, may have stemmed from his inability to shed these prideful spiritual convictions.

The Herodian Identity of Paul

A central tenet of this theory is the assertion that Paul was not merely a Pharisee but a Herodian Jew. This challenges the traditional understanding of Paul’s background, which often emphasizes his claim of being from the tribe of Benjamin. Instead, evidence is presented to suggest his true lineage was deeply intertwined with the Herodian royal family, who were Idumean converts to Judaism.

Historical accounts and biblical narratives are re-examined to support this claim. For instance, a figure named Saulus, described in historical writings as being of royal lineage and connected to Agrippa, who engaged in violent acts and caused unrest in Jerusalem, is identified as the Apostle Paul. This identification is bolstered by several key observations:

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Extensive Education: Paul’s profound knowledge of Greek philosophy, demonstrated by his ability to quote obscure Greek thinkers, is seen as a hallmark of the Hellenized Jewish elite, particularly those within the Herodian sphere, who valued such intellectual pursuits.

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Roman Citizenship: Paul’s birthright as a Roman citizen is attributed to his Herodian heritage. This privilege was not commonly granted to Jews but was a distinct advantage held by the Herodian Edomites through their ancestor Antipater. Being born in a city like Tarsus did not automatically confer Roman citizenship, further suggesting a unique familial connection.

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Unusual Authority: The extraordinary authority Paul wielded to persecute early Christians across various cities, including Damascus, is considered beyond the scope of a typical high priest’s power. Such extensive reach and enforcement capability are posited to have originated from a civil authority, specifically Herod Antipas, with whom Paul is believed to have had close ties.

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Shared Upbringing: Accounts suggesting Paul was raised and educated alongside Herod Antipas in Rome contradict his own testimony of being brought up in Jerusalem. This discrepancy is highlighted as further evidence of his Herodian connections and a more cosmopolitan upbringing than traditionally understood.

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Flight from Damascus: Paul’s escape from Damascus due to King Aretas IV of Nabatea is reinterpreted as a consequence of a family dispute. Aretas IV was the former father-in-law of Herod Antipas, implying a direct familial link that led to Paul’s involvement in a broader conflict.

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Significant Protection: The substantial bodyguard of 470 men assigned to Paul upon his arrest underscores his considerable political influence and connection to the Herodian family, far exceeding the protection typically afforded to a private citizen.

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Familial Acknowledgment: Paul’s own reference to “Herodion, my kinsman,” in his writings is presented as direct biblical corroboration of his Herodian familial ties.

Furthermore, the theory posits that Paul’s identity as a Pharisee does not conflict with his Herodian lineage. Historical records indicate that Pharisees and Herodians often collaborated, as evidenced by their joint opposition to Jesus in the Gospels. This suggests a complex political and religious landscape in which Paul operated, where alliances transcended simple sectarian labels.

Paul: A Divergent Path and Alleged Anti-Christ Figure

One of the most controversial aspects of this theory is the assertion that Paul, despite his significant role in early Christianity, was a figure who inadvertently or intentionally diverted the original message of Jesus. This perspective suggests that Paul was, in essence, an unwitting instrument in a larger plan to introduce a distorted version of the gospel.

It is proposed that Paul’s upbringing within the Herodian sphere, which reportedly exposed him to various esoteric and mystery religions, fundamentally shaped his understanding and teachings. His dramatic conversion experience on the road to Damascus is reinterpreted not as a divine encounter, but as a deceptive event orchestrated by a malevolent entity. This entity, masquerading as Jesus, is believed to have recruited Paul to lead a counter-movement against the nascent Christian church.

Proponents of this view highlight numerous perceived inconsistencies between Paul’s writings and the direct teachings of Jesus. These discrepancies are presented as evidence that Paul’s theology, while influential, ultimately served to subtly alter the core tenets of the faith. Paul’s self-proclaimed title of “MASTERBUILDER” is also scrutinized, with connections drawn to esoteric organizations, implying a hidden agenda to control and manipulate Christian doctrine. The argument concludes that a fundamental conflict exists within the biblical text itself, a struggle between the authentic message of Jesus and the divergent teachings introduced through Paul’s epistles.

Conclusion

The theory that Paul was the rich young ruler, a Herodian Jew, and a figure whose teachings diverged from the original message of Jesus, offers a radical reinterpretation of early Christian history. By examining Paul’s background, his alleged connections to the Herodian dynasty, and a critical analysis of his theological contributions, this perspective proposes an alternative narrative for the development of Christian thought. While these ideas are highly controversial and differ significantly from conventional theological interpretations, they encourage a deeper, more critical engagement with biblical texts and the historical context in which they emerged.

Russell Dibird