Mythras and the Christian Tradition
The festive season of Christmas, with its traditions and celebrations, has long captivated the hearts of people worldwide. But have you ever wondered about the fascinating historical roots that lie beneath the surface of this beloved holiday?
Let's take a short captivating journey as we unravel the intricate connections between the ancient Cult of Mithras and the Christian traditions of Christmas.
The Enigmatic Cult of Mithras
In the dimly lit underground sanctuaries of the Roman Empire, followers of the enigmatic Cult of Mithras engaged in secretive rituals and ceremonies. Mithras, a Persian god of light and truth, held a special place in the hearts of his devotees, who worshipped him in temples designed to mimic cosmic symbolism. The cult's initiation rites, shrouded in mystery, involved stages of purification and spiritual enlightenment, culminating in the ascent of the soul towards divine wisdom.
Although inspired by Iranian worship of the Zoroastrian "god" Mithra, the Roman Mithras was linked to a new and distinctive imagery, and the level of continuity between Persian and Greco-Roman practice remains debatable.
The mysteries were popular among the Imperial Roman Army from the 1st to the 4th century CE.
In the Roman Empire, Mithras, was characterised by images of the god slaughtering a bull. Other images of Mithras are found in the Roman temples, for instance Mithras banqueting with Sol, and depictions of the birth of Mithras from a rock.
However, the image of bull-slaying (tauroctony) is always in the central image. The killing of a sacred bull may have been seen as creating of connecting to the universe's life force and maintain it.
There is some speculation that the image is a Graeco-Roman representation of an event in Zoroastrian creation myth described in a 9th-century Zoroastrian text, the Bundahiashn.
In this text the spirit Ahriman slays the primordial creature Gavaevodata (which is represent as a bull or cow).
The Birth of Sol Invictus and the Winter Solstice
Central to the beliefs of the Cult of Mithras was the veneration of the unconquered sun god, Sol Invictus. The significance of the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, held profound symbolism for Mithraic devotees as a time of rebirth and renewal. It was during this celestial event that the sun, representing Mithras and Sol Invictus, began its triumphant journey back towards strength and vitality.
Mithraic Influences on Christian Traditions
As Christianity began to emerge and spread throughout the Roman Empire, it encountered a world rich with diverse religious traditions, including the Cult of Mithras. Scholars have long debated the potential influences of Mithraic beliefs on early Christian practices, particularly in relation to the celebration of Christmas.
The Birth of Jesus and the Nativity Story
One of the most striking parallels between the Cult of Mithras and Christian traditions is the celebration of the birth of a divine figure.
In Mithraism, the god Mithras was believed to have been born from a rock, symbolising his role as a bringer of light and salvation.
Similarly, Christians commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ on December 25th, a date that coincides with the ancient Roman festival of Saturnalia and the winter solstice.
The Symbolism of Light and Salvation
Both Mithraic and Christian narratives are imbued with potent symbolism surrounding light and salvation.
Mithras, as the god of light, was seen as a savior figure who triumphed over darkness and ignorance. In a parallel manner, Christians view Jesus as the "Light of the World" who dispels the shadows of sin and offers salvation to humanity.
Legacy of the Cult of Mithras in Modern Christmas Celebrations
As Christianity gained ascendancy in the Roman Empire, it absorbed and repurposed elements from the surrounding cultural milieu, including Mithraic beliefs and practices. The vibrant imagery of light, rebirth, and salvation found in the Cult of Mithras continues to resonate in the festive traditions of Christmas, creating a tapestry of cultural influences that endure to this day.
In conclusion, the ancient Cult of Mithras casts a fascinating shadow over the Christian traditions of Christmas, revealing a tapestry woven with threads of cosmic significance and spiritual longing.
As we gather with loved ones and exchange gifts during the holiday season, let us remember the enduring legacy of Mithras and the profound interplay of beliefs that have shaped the celebration of Christmas through the ages.
Treat Comparisons with Care
The chart below from a group identifying as We F***ing Love Atheism is interesting.
It is important to consider the bias in these comparisons and even the liberal interpretations of the various myths. However, there are some very interesting common themes.
A challenge here is to discern what is simply coincidence highlighted by the atheists bias and what are genuine mythological comparisons..
Celebrations of The Winter Solstice have been evidenced from neolithic times in the numerous monuments and circles. It makes sense for the Sun's journey to feature in a cultures myths and religions. Whether the Sun is the Son is a much more complex question. As someone who celebrates syncretism, I find it exciting to see myths evolve and gain new relevance in particular cultures and particular times.
Alan /|\
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