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Roman Religion: A Study of Beliefs and Practices Roman religion encompassed the beliefs and rituals followed by those on the Italian peninsula from ancient times up until the rise of Christianity in the 4th century CE, a time referred to as Classical Antiquity. Cicero, the renowned orator and statesman, remarked that the Romans stood out…
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Ephesus, situated in the contemporary Izmir region of Turkey, was a significant maritime hub in the ancient era. This city served as a vital center for commerce in the Mediterranean, boasting a history that saw it controlled by various kingdoms and empires throughout the ages. Originally established around the 10th century BCE, the narratives surrounding…
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In the realm of Roman mythology, Vulcan, also referred to as Vulcanus, stands as the god of fire, metalworking, and craftsmanship. He is the Roman equivalent of the Greek deity Hephaestus. Often portrayed as a master blacksmith and artisan, Vulcan is celebrated for his skill in forging an array of metal creations, including robust weapons…
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From the dawn of Egypt’s First Dynasty around 3200 BCE, the revered cheetah goddess Mafdet held a significant place in worship. Known as “the runner,” she symbolized swift execution of justice. As the “Avenger of the King,” it was believed that Mafdet prowled the unseen realms, removing the hearts of wrongdoers and presenting them at…
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Accessing Content on Oxford Academic Institutional Access Oxford Academic provides access to its content primarily through institutional subscriptions or purchases. Individuals affiliated with an institution that holds an active subscription have several methods to access the material. IP Based Access Generally, access is granted across the institutional network associated with specific IP addresses. This process…
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The notion that “Zeus feared Nyx” is a common reference, yet its origin is seldom cited directly. This concept can be traced back to a passage in the Iliad, which states: “…Zeus, stirred by anger, searched through his dwelling, seeking above all for me [Hypnos], and would have cast me into the abyss of the…
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Welcome to another edition of Deities of Good Fortune, where we have previously explored figures like St. Anthony, Ekeko, Lakshmi, Mami Wata, and the Seven Lucky Gods. Today, we turn our focus back to ancient Rome to discuss the Roman Goddess Fortuna. It is essential to acknowledge the significant influence of luck and fate on…
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Greek mythology encompasses a rich body of narratives that explore the lives of gods, heroes, and the rituals practiced by ancient Greeks. This collection of tales has greatly influenced Western culture, resonating through literature and art across the ages. While various civilizations have created myths to elucidate natural phenomena, the narratives of the Greeks are…
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Neptune: A Majestic Roman Depiction This impressive sculpture, crafted from veined marble around 135 AD, showcases Neptune, the Roman deity governing seas and freshwater bodies. The statue, exceeding typical human size, stands robustly supported by a dolphin—an emblem of the god. Notably, Neptune’s left arm holds a trident, a symbol representing his dominion over the…
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In a recent exchange with an individual in England about Dionysian themes, I shared my perspective on worshipping Dionysos. This prompted an intriguing response: he expressed an aversion to worship in any form. This led me to consider how we define worship. Upon explaining that for me, worship signifies a deep expression of love, gratitude,…
