The two Christian saints who are the Buddha
This article explores the historical evolution of the Christian saints Barlaam and Josaphat, revealing that their story is a derivative of the life of the Buddha. The narrative traces how the legend traveled through various cultures and languages before being adopted into Christian martyrology.
Why it matters
It highlights the syncretic nature of religious history and the cultural exchange between Eastern and Western traditions.
Let me tell you the story of saints Barlaam and Josaphat of India. A king named Abenner, who persecutes Christians, hears from his court astrologers that his son will attain great power and rule over India. But one astrologer predicts that the prince will instead become a great holy man – a Christian. Alarmed, Abenner has the young prince Josaphat isolated from external contact and sees that Josaphat is pampered, with servants attending to his every need.
But Josaphat becomes curious about the outside world, and eventually is allowed to leave the palace. On these trips, he encounters men ravaged by illness, old age, and death. He is in the middle of a crisis of faith when he meets a Christian hermit named Barlaam, converts, and continues to profess the Christian faith despite his father’s best efforts.
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