18 Apr 2019

Jesus sexually abused when stripped, crucified, theologian says

From Morning Report, 8:40 am on 18 April 2019

A New Zealand theologian's argument that Jesus was sexually abused by being stripped for crucifixion is gaining international attention. Professor David Tombs of Otago University says people are usually taken aback at the idea. He and research partner Dr Rocio Figueroa, who was herself abused by a clergyman, have had their work featured in religious news reports from the US to Europe to South America. Professor Tombs told RNZ reporter Phil Pennington the idea could be helpful in the run-up to the Royal Commission on abuse in New Zealand.