The "They Hated Jesus" meme is one of the most intriguing phenomena of internet culture, capturing users' attention worldwide. This meme format, which features a cloaked figure holding a 'Jesus' sign shrouded in darkness, fits perfectly into the crypto realm, sparking an array of humorous and thought-provoking derivatives.
To understand the hype, let's dive into the origins and evolution of the "They Hated Jesus" meme, its connection to cryptocurrency, and its creative variations that have kept it a staple in online forums and social media platforms.
Origins and Early Contexts
The "They Hated Jesus" meme can be traced back to a 2003 anti-piracy public service announcement (PSA) by the Church of Scientology. The video featured a cloaked figure holding a sign saying "They Hated Him Because He Told the Truth."
Over a decade later, in 2016, this image was reinvented in the "They Hated Jesus" format. Users replaced the original message with 'Jesus' on a sign, surrounding the figure in darkness, leading to a resurgence in popularity.
Crypto Connection: "They Hated Jesus Presenting On... "
The meme's association with cryptocurrency began in late 2017. Users started creating variants where the "They Hated Jesus" figure was now presenting on various cryptocurrencies, like Bitcoin or altcoins, symbolizing the monolithic nature of the crypto space dominated by early adopters.
Examples include "They Hated Jesus Presenting on Bitcoin Unlimited" or "They Hated Jesus Presenting on IOTA," poking fun at the intense scrutiny and skepticism faced by new cryptocurrencies.
The "Jesus Christ Coin" Meme
Another calling-card of the "They Hated Jesus" meme is its connection to the satirical "Jesus Christ Coin" (JCC), a cryptocurrency launched in 2018. The JCC website, featuring the "They Hated Jesus" figure, proclaimed it was "the only cryptocurrency with a positive ROI" – an acronym for "return on investment" instead of "return on interest."
The JCC meme poked fun at the irrational exuberance and hype surrounding Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) and the often dubious nature of these projects.
Creative Variations and Offshoots
The "They Hated Jesus" meme's adaptability has given rise to numerous creative variations. Users have inserted the cloaked figure into iconic scenes from TV shows and movies, or replaced 'Jesus' with puns and satirical commentary on societal issues.
Some popular versions include "They Hated Mitt Romney's Binders Full of Women" (referencing a 2012 U.S. presidential debate), "They Hated Star Wars Binge-Watchers," or even international versions like "They Hated Brexit."
The "Dark Knight" Variation and Irony
A significant offshoot is the "Dark Knight" theme, where the figure is the Joker instead of 'Jesus.' Here, "They Hated Jesus" becomes "They Hated Batman." This iteration highlights the irony of the meme – users admire the figure presenting controversial or unpopular ideas, reminiscent of Batman's struggle against marginalized societal groups.
A prime example is "They Hated Bitcoin Maximalists," a nod to the schisms within the crypto community sparked by differing opinions on Bitcoin's role as the sole cryptocurrency.
"They Hated... Presenting on You" – The cohort expansion
A final notable variation saw the meme format repurposed to highlight discrimination. Users created versions like "They Hated X Presenting on You," with 'X' referring to groups like 'Minorities' or 'Woman,' emphasizing that even the figure labeled 'Jesus' could be dismissed.
This iteration brought the "They Hated Jesus" meme full circle, connecting back to the original PSA's message while shining a light on contemporary social issues.
The "They Hated Jesus" meme's continued relevance is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of internet culture. It offers both fodder for comedic ridicule and a mirror reflecting societal norms, prejudices, and power dynamics. Its staying power underscores the human tendency to attribute agency and importance to even the seemingly mundane – in this case, a cloaked figure holding a sign.