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Podcast episodes – The Secret History of Western Esotericism Podcast (SHWEP)
Mysteries of the Rock-Born God: The Roman Cult of Mithras
Jun 9, 2021
Exploring the enigmatic Roman cult of Mithras, including its origins and rapid expansion throughout the empire, the mysterious lion-headed god and temple layout, the symbolism and social makeup of Mithraic temples, the social context and rituals of the cult, and the iconography and interpretations of salvation in the esoteric cult.
42:16
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Quick takeaways
- The cult of Mithras was an innovative initiatory cult of the Roman empire that gained popularity among soldiers and lower-middle-class Romans, offering valuable insights into the social dynamics of the time.
- The Mithraic cult featured vivid depictions of a bull slaying, revealing its rituals and beliefs, while its initiation rites created an atmosphere of terror and trembling, attracting men from middle and lower-class backgrounds in Roman society.
Deep dives
Introduction to the Cult of Mithras
The podcast episode introduces the mysteries of Mithras, an ancient esoteric cult that emerged during the Roman imperial period alongside Christianity. Despite being lesser known today, the cult of Mithras spread rapidly and gained popularity, particularly among soldiers and lower-middle-class Romans. The episode highlights that understanding the cult of Mithras is valuable for several reasons, including its connections to important figures such as Emperor Julian and its influence on later esoteric interpretations.
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highlights
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