Emperor Cult, Apotheosis

Published on: Author: kelliem@uoregon.edu

Apotheosis is defined as the glorification of a subject to divine level. After reading White, I have learned that the practice of apotheosis and the Roman religious system, also known as the emperor cult are the emperors and their family members. The cult was formed during the Augustus. The tradition established by Augustus was the practice of worshiping an emperor during his lifetime. Augustus seemed more concerned with spreading the worship of emperor in Greek territory. The Roman cult is sometimes seen as a source of change from Rome’s traditional Republican values. After reading Luke 2: 1-14 and Luke 2: 25-35, I am being persuaded to believe Mary has given birth to the Messiah. The messiah also known as the Son of God will bring peace on earth and cleanse those of sin. Luke 2: 25-35 on the other hand was very similar in message but believed Jesus to be the Messiah of all people. Overall leading his followers to the promise land and granting them eternal life. The political implications that the stories could have on a world dominated by the cult of the emperor, is there is only one Messiah. One savior. One God.