Albert Schweitzer's book isn't a novel, but it reads like a mystery. He takes the story of the Last Supper—something many think they understand—and shows how it's actually a historical knot waiting to be untangled.

The Story

Schweitzer places the Last Supper right in the middle of Jesus's final, turbulent days in Jerusalem. He compares the different Gospel accounts side-by-side, pointing out their contradictions and odd details. The core question is: why does this meal, with its talk of bread, wine, and betrayal, feel so disconnected from Jesus's earlier teachings? Schweitzer argues that Jesus and his followers weren't calmly observing a ritual. They were a small group in crisis, and the supper was a raw, symbolic act filled with the dread and hope of what was coming next.

Why You Should Read It

This book changed how I read the Bible. Schweitzer doesn't treat the text as a smooth, perfect story. He sees the cracks and seams, and instead of ignoring them, he asks what they're hiding. His writing makes you feel the pressure and confusion of that night. You get a sense of real people grappling with an impossible situation, not just characters in a parable. It's challenging, but it makes the story feel alive and human again.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who likes historical detective work or has ever been puzzled by the Bible. It's not for readers who want a simple, devotional take. But if you're curious about the man behind the myth and the messy process of how his story was told, Schweitzer is a brilliant and passionate guide. Be ready to have your assumptions questioned.