You're in the right place if you have ever been curious about ancient Rome's religious beliefs. Find out about the Roman 'lares', or gods, as well as their rituals and sacrifices for victory at war. You will then be able to understand their influence on early Roman history.
Romans venerated 'lares.
Romans worshiped 'lares', a god of weather, in many different ways. One or two divinities could be associated with the same location and people. Many believed that the gods protected their home and family from the damaging effects of the southern winds, or kept the sickly season away. These gods were frequently depicted on sculptures and statues as well as murals.
They worshiped and revered the sun
Sun worship became the Roman Empire's dominant official religion. Many Roman gods possessed solar qualities, and the sun was portrayed as the supreme being in the pantheon. Even Christ, Mithra and others were granted solar qualities. Constantine I, Roman Emperor, was the first to embrace sun worship. Constantius II his son legitimized sun cult by moving Jesus's birth date from December 25 to December 25.
They sacrificed animals
Animal sacrifice was a practice, which helped to create political and social-economic hierarchies. It also communicated implicit beliefs concerning the divine. Romans saw animals as part of the world, and believed they had the ability to harm or help humans. Through animal sacrifice, these beliefs were elevated to a level almost as high as God.
They used rituals to win the battle
Romans used rituals to win battles. Some rituals were open to the public, while others were more private. They offered sacrifices to the gods, heroes and the dead. These sacrifices can be made in public or private settings and may take many forms. They could be food sacrifices to the gods or burned offerings to them. Romans also offered blood sacrifices.
They performed 'augures’ to predict the future.
Romans used 'augures' to divinate by looking at the omens of nature. They looked at animals' behavior, as well the parts of plants. This practice was taken seriously because the gods were believed had a hand in predicting future events.
They believed in emperor worship
Romans believed in Emperor worship. They had many rituals, prescriptions, and ceremonies to honour him. This devotion went beyond politics.