The Robe

Lloyd C. Douglas

Marcellus Galleo is a wealthy young officer in Rome. His sister (a beautiful young woman), his father (a senator), and himself have recently denounced or offended Prince Gaius, who rules Rome in the absence of his uncle, Emperor Tiberius. Gaius uses his authority to have Marcellus' commission activated and sends him to the worst post in the Empire, the one the locals call Gaza, in Palestine.

Diana is in love with Marcellus, and is finally able to persuade her grandfather, Emperor Tiberius, to rescind Marcellus' orders. But it is too late. Marcellus has had to carry out one duty that he could not handle emotionally or mentally. He had to be in charge of the crucifixion of a man he was certain was innocent. This Galillean seemed to be hated by the local religious leaders who were able to convince their Roman leader to put this Jesus to death. Marcellus, drunk at the scene of the crucifixion, won the robe the Galillean wore with his high toss of the dice. Later that evening he donned the robe on a dare. His mind snapped.

Demetrius is Marcellus' Greek slave and friend. Against orders he keeps that special robe and hides it from his master. Marcellus receives his orders to return to Rome. He does, but is a sick man. Demetrius and Marcellus find themselves on a journey to heal them physically, mentally, and spiritually. They learn more of this strange, innocent Gallilean and his followers. They each discover the path they must take in order for their lives to be important to themselves and others.

I first read this book over 25 years ago. It impressed me then and again on this reading. It is a new perspective of the early Christians and the rise of this new religion. It also takes one of the facts from the Biblical story and weaves a wonderful tale around it. The Bible only mentions that the soldiers cast lots for Jesus' robe at the foot of the cross. Douglas imagines what happened to the next owner of the robe. This is an entertaining story that brings us strong characters who follow the path they need to follow. Whatever your Christian beliefs may be, Marcellus and Demetrius will impress you, too.