What are 5 proofs of the existence of Jesus not using the Bible?

 It's important to note that discussions about the existence of historical figures, including Jesus, often rely on historical and extra-biblical sources. While there are references to Jesus in some non-Christian historical writings, direct "proofs" of his existence outside the Bible are limited. The evidence is often fragmentary, and interpretations can vary among scholars. Here are some points that historians and scholars consider when discussing the historical existence of Jesus:

1. **Flavius Josephus:** The Jewish historian Flavius Josephus, who lived in the 1st century CE, mentioned Jesus in his work "Antiquities of the Jews." However, the authenticity and accuracy of the specific references to Jesus in Josephus's writings are debated among scholars.

2. **Tacitus:** The Roman historian Tacitus, writing in the early 2nd century, mentioned Jesus in passing while discussing the persecution of Christians under Emperor Nero in his work "Annals." Tacitus's reference provides some external confirmation of Jesus' existence but is limited in detail.

3. **Pliny the Younger:** Pliny the Younger, a Roman governor and writer, corresponded with Emperor Trajan around 112 CE about the persecution of Christians. In his letters, he refers to Christians worshiping Christ, providing some indirect evidence of Jesus' historical presence.

4. **Suetonius:** The Roman historian Suetonius, in his work "Lives of the Twelve Caesars," makes a passing reference to a group of people who followed a leader named "Chrestus." Some scholars associate this with early Christian activities, although it does not provide detailed information about Jesus himself.

5. **Talmudic References:** Some references to Jesus appear in the Talmud, a compilation of Jewish teachings and traditions. These references, found in passages such as the Babylonian Talmud, are often critical and reflect early Jewish perspectives on Jesus.

It's important to approach these sources critically, as they are not direct contemporary accounts of Jesus' life but reflections from later periods. The historical evidence for Jesus outside the Bible is relatively limited, and scholarly opinions on the reliability of these sources can vary. The study of Jesus' historicity involves examining and interpreting these diverse historical references and weighing the evidence within the context of ancient history.