The Last Temptation of Christ

By: Nikos Kazantzakis

Narrated by: Joshua Saxon

The internationally renowned novel about the life and death of Jesus Christ.

Hailed as a masterpiece by critics worldwide, The Last Temptation of Christ is a monumental reinterpretation of the Gospels that brilliantly fleshes out Christ’s Passion. This literary rendering of the life of Jesus Christ has courted controversy since its publication by depicting a Christ far more human than the one seen in the Bible. He is a figure who is gloriously divine but earthy and human, a man like any other - subject to fear, doubt, and pain.

In elegant, thoughtful prose Nikos Kazantzakis, one of the greats of modern literature, follows this Jesus as he struggles to live out God’s will for him, powerfully suggesting that it was Christ’s ultimate triumph over his flawed humanity, when he gave up the temptation to run from the cross and willingly laid down his life for mankind, that truly made him the venerable redeemer of men.

Translated by P.A. Bien

©2012 Niki Stavrou (P)2020 David N. Wilson

Critic reviews

“Spiritual dynamite.” (San Francisco Chronicle)

A moving portrayal

If, as the Bible says (paraphrasing), that Jesus was tempted in all things, then the temptations deployed in this fictional account seem rather reasonable. It was not created to be another gospel, and the author expressly denied that the book is a biography. The author chose the best character he could have chosen to handle the topic of temptation: the flesh vs. the spirit. Someone who overcame it, of course. I love the book. I’ve read it before, but had to get the audio to listen to it at a different time in my life.

Absolutely mesmerizing!

Phenomenal audible book. I couldn’t stop listening. Joshua Saxon did an amazing job narrating this book. What a voice!

Brilliant Religious Experiment

Delivered immaculately by Joshua Saxton The Last Temptation of Christ is a pop culture reinterpretation of scripture that seems essential. I was raised in a strongly Catholic household but being unable to puzzle out the stuff I am an atheist so maybe this requires a more open mind less strictly pious outlook (but I dont think so although Kazantzakis was not traditionally religious, I have also not seen the movie). Presenting Jesus, a foundational religious figure, as uncertain is a brilliant thought experiment that feels like it brings humanity and depth to the religious lore. The spiritual pain here makes the book considerate and relatable. The prose is poetic and engaging. The ironic use of things like Judas providing pivotal strength feels like it doesn't contradict the gospels but provides a curious enlivening way of seeing other interpretations (not sacrilegious but allowing us to have a personal experience with the foundation). Thoughtful, just provocative enough, and the sort of thing that seems essential whatever your faith is.

One of the best books on religion and spirituality

This is a great audiobook for anyone who’s interested in Nietzsche and Buddha. Also, for those who are inquisitive about dogma. The performance by the voice artist is apt for the tone of the novel. It has a great drama.
A must read!

Masterful performance of a masterpiece!

Joshua Saxon’s narration masterfully depicts the huge cast of characters with clarity, while keeping the story moving with perfect pacing and momentum. As compelling as he makes the plot, I found myself re-listening to several chapters before moving on, because I was so struck by the beauty of his storytelling.

The complex book itself is a revelation. It brings to life the familiar narrative in a way that gives it the gripping immediacy of a novel, bringing to life the title character in a way the Gospels do not, and perhaps should not. Even if some Christians may disagree with this picture of Christ, they can hardly fail to be moved by the vivid, flesh-and-blood humanity of this portrayal.