Eastern religious influences in the imperial Roman Army
Date
2008
Authors
Chomiak, Amanda
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Arts and Science
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Department of History, 2008
Abstract
Religion was an important, and unifying element of the imperial Roman army.
The imperial cult created and maintained a bond among the troops. Studying the specific
cults of Mithra, Jupiter Dolichenus and Sol Invictus is also valuable, as they reflect
Romanization, illustrate cult movement in the empire and represent military religious
practices. Despite contemporary concerns there was also a Christian and Jewish presence
within the imperial army. The imperial army permitted all cults, as long as Rome's state
cults were respected.
Imperial influence, especially by the Severan Dynasty, may explain the
introduction of many eastern cults. An increased number of provincial recruits over the
first three centuries CE, and a heightened transfer of troops to the eastern frontiers, may
also explain the escalated worship of non-Roman, eastern cults during the imperial
period. Modern scholarship on such issues is emphasized in this study, as it guides the
interpretation of primary evidence.
Description
v, 164 leaves ; 29 cm.
Keywords
Dissertations, Academic , Rome -- Army -- History , Rome -- Army -- Religious life , Soldiers -- Religious life -- Rome