Did the Apostle Thomas Go to India?
The question of whether the Apostle Thomas, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ, traveled to India has intrigued scholars and historians for centuries. This enigmatic journey, if it indeed occurred, would have profound implications for the spread of Christianity in Asia. In this article, we will explore the historical evidence, legends, and archaeological findings that support the theory that Thomas did visit India.
The origins of the belief that Thomas traveled to India can be traced back to the early Christian writings. The most significant of these is the “Acts of Thomas,” a non-canonical text that describes the apostle’s mission to India. According to this account, Thomas was sent to India by Jesus himself and established the first Christian church in the country. The text also mentions that Thomas was martyred in Mylapore, a coastal town near Chennai, and that his tomb is still revered by Christians in India today.
Another early source is the “Apostolic Constitutions,” a 4th-century document that lists Thomas as one of the apostles who traveled to distant lands to spread the Christian faith. However, the credibility of this source is often questioned due to its late date and the possibility of it being influenced by later legends.
The most compelling evidence for Thomas’s journey to India comes from the Indian tradition itself. Many Indian Christians, including the Thomas Christians, claim descent from the apostle and maintain that he established the first church in Kerala, known as the Saint Thomas Church. This tradition is supported by ancient Indian texts, such as the “Keralolpathi,” which mentions Thomas’s arrival in India and his subsequent activities.
Archaeological discoveries have also provided some support for the Thomas theory. In 1951, archaeologists discovered a 1st-century cross at the site of the Mylapore church, which is believed to be the tomb of Thomas. Additionally, the “Mylapore Cross” is said to have been found at the same site, which is believed to be the cross used during Thomas’s crucifixion.
Despite these compelling pieces of evidence, the question of whether Thomas actually visited India remains a topic of debate among scholars. Some argue that the legends and traditions supporting his journey are purely mythical and have no historical basis. Others contend that while the evidence is not conclusive, it is strong enough to suggest that Thomas may have indeed traveled to India.
In conclusion, while the question of whether the Apostle Thomas went to India remains open to interpretation, the historical evidence, legends, and archaeological findings provide a compelling case for his presence in the region. Whether or not Thomas actually visited India, his legacy continues to inspire millions of Christians in India and beyond.
