The Acceptance of Mithraism in Italy: A Blend of Eastern and Western Influences

Italy as a modern nation or national/ethnic/linguistic identity, did not exist during the time when Mithraism (1st-4th centuries AD) was gaining popularity in the Roman Empire. The term Italia was given by Greek settlers to the Italian peninsula, which was historically inhabited by Italic peoples speaking Indo-European languages related to Latin, as well as Celtic, Etrurian, and Greek-speaking inhabitants in the south. The Roman Empire itself was a vast entity, extending to the Middle East, Anatolia, and Egypt, making its subjects simultaneously 'western' and 'eastern'.

Mithraism was not a philosophy but an esoteric religion, with the full content of its doctrine known only to initiates who took part in the mysteries of Mithraism. While the notions of 'western' and 'eastern' identities were known in ancient times, as witnessed by Herodotus, it is essential to be cautious when using these labels without considering the diverse context of ancient thought. Concepts such as the separation of the self and reality, and the power of reason and logic, were fundamental to Western philosophy but did not necessarily negate Eastern philosophies like those found in Buddhism, Lao Tse, and Vedic scriptures, which were unknown in the Greek and Roman world.

Rome was heavily influenced by Greek culture, which extended to the Middle East, Anatolia, and Egypt. The soldiers of the Roman Empire were diverse, and Mithraism particularly attracted soldiers from different backgrounds. Rome's traditional religion, a mix of the Latin and Greek pantheons, was esteemed for its ritual and symbolic significance in the institutions of the empire. However, the subjects of the empire, both within and outside Italy, were captivated by more exotic religions. Temples dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis, for example, were built throughout the empire, including in Pompeii. Roman soldiers worshipped Mithra, and Latin and Greek-speaking Romans became 'proselytes' and 'righteous gentiles,' often attending Synagogues to listen to rabbinic teachings. Christianity eventually became the dominant and official religion of the empire.

Was Mithraism truly 'Eastern'? Mithras, the central deity of Mithraism, was depicted wearing a Persian-looking Phrygian hat, and the god has roots in an ancient Persian pantheon. However, the relation of the cult to actual Persian religious practices is uncertain. Mithraism was a syncretic religion, a blend of various influences rather than strictly Eastern or Western. The religion combined elements of Persian, Egyptian, and Roman beliefs, making it uniquely Roman.

Mithraism, as a blend of Eastern and Western influences, offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural diversity of the Roman Empire. It highlights the complex interplay of traditions and beliefs that shaped the religious landscape of ancient Italy and the broader Roman world. This syncretic fusion of cultures is a testament to the dynamic and inclusive nature of Roman religious practices, where diverse faiths and rituals coexisted, contributing to the richness and complexity of the empire's spiritual life.