Events of week focus on executed man

(This is 2 of 4 articles imagining how a newspaper might have covered the death and resurrection of Jesus.)

JERUSALEM (first day of the week) -- This city has been rocked by events associated with the execution last Friday of Jesus of Nazareth, an itinerant Jewish preacher who had assembled a tiny band of disciples.

Some of his followers claimed that their leader rose from the dead this morning.

Temple authorities counter that the body was stolen from its tomb to perpetuate the rumor that Jesus of Nazareth had correctly predicted his own resurrection.

Recognition

Events began to unfold last Sunday, when Jesus rode triumphantly into the capital, a city packed with pilgrims celebrating the Passover season.

"It was an exciting day. People jammed the streets and spread their cloaks on the road as Jesus came into the city. Those of us who were close to him felt that he was finally getting the recognition he deserved," said one disciple, who asked that his name not be used.

"Things were getting out of hand," said one Pharisee, speaking on deep background. He added that the crowds Jesus attracted were overly exuberant.

Authority attacked

Some observers claim that Jesus attacked the ruling authorities through thinly disguised parables, in which hypocritical leaders were placed in the role of villains.

"He got a little too brazen," noted a spokesman for the chief priests. "After he attacked the way the temple was run, he alienated many God-fearing folks. He even predicted that this entire city would be destroyed. That's simply a case of inciting hysteria."

A story of betrayal has also emerged, according to sources close to both the authorities and Jesus' disciples. It appears that Judas Iscariot, one of the 12 most trusted followers of Jesus, arranged to hand over his leader in exchange for silver coins.

Before Jesus' death on Friday, Judas' body was found hanging from a tree in an apparent suicide.

Earthquake

Jesus was questioned by Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, who sanctioned the decision for execution. Jesus was put to death with two other convicted criminals via crucifixion.

However, it's the events since Jesus' death that have had this city stirring. At the moment of his death, an earthquake hit the city, tearing the veil of the temple.

Followers of Jesus claim the earthquake has religious significance; religious authorities, however, claim the events are simply coincidences.

Despite the rumors buzzing this city, most of Jesus' followers remain hidden away, unavailable for comment. A number, it is said, fear execution. Some, according to sources close to the disciples, are having difficulty believing the rumors about Jesus' alleged resurrection.

(4/5/07) [[In-content Ad]]