the Dude as Christ figure?

Rating: Null/10 (28 March 2002)

Now I am not one of those who like to read too much meaning into everything, and no bible thumper either, but I couldn't help noticing the following similarities between the Dude and JC:

the obvious physical similarities..hair, beard, sandals and loose-fitting plain clothing

the simple and impoverished lifestyle

both are 'baptised' early in the significant part of their histories.

both have visionary dreams.

both turn the other cheek (this is the Dude's most noticable trait..no matter who beats on him or what indignities he suffers, he never offers anyone the slightest threat or violent reaction).

both have close associates who tend to take things a bit too far.

both are called to self-sacrifice in the promise of reward from the "big guy", who ultimately let's them down and proves to be less than he appeared.

both are importuned and tempted by a whore, to whose feet they pay homage.

And finally, what about the Sam Elliot line at the end, about the Dude out there 'layin' back fer all us sinners' ?
I wouldn't want this to distract from the simple of enjoyment of yet another Coen Bros masterpiece of dark comedy, but I can't help wondering if this is just my imagination or if the brothers actually did this on purpose.
If so, they tipped us another little clue by throwing in an almost demonic character named Jesus...not pronounced Hey-soos either :)