Mithras
God of Contracts, Protector of Soldiers, Solar Deity
Cosmic Deity
Place of Origin: Roman Empire, particularly Rome
Origin Date: Late 1st century CE (Roman adaptation)
Domain: Contracts & Oaths, War & Protection, Cosmic Order & Renewal
Symbols: Bull (sacrifice and cosmic renewal), Phrygian Cap (Eastern origins), Sun Rays (solar deity), Handshake (symbol of loyalty and contracts)
Attributes: Protector of Soldiers, Solar Guardian, Initiator of Mysteries
Epithets: Mithras Invictus ("Unconquered Mithras"), Deus Sol Invictus ("God of the Unconquered Sun")
Equivalents: Persian Mithra (Zoroastrian deity of contracts and justice), Sol Invictus (Roman sun god)
Religion: Roman Mithraism
Sacred Texts: No written theology survives, but inscriptions and monuments provide insight into Mithraic beliefs.
Iconography: Tauroctony reliefs (bull-slaying scene), Rock-born depictions, Banquet scenes with Sol
Religion: Roman Mithraism
Description
Mithras was the central figure of Mithraism, a Roman mystery religion that thrived between the 1st and 4th centuries CE. Though inspired by Persian Mithra, Roman Mithras developed distinct iconography and rituals, focusing on initiation, cosmic struggle, and solar symbolism.
Mithras was often depicted slaying a bull (tauroctony), symbolizing cosmic renewal and sacrifice. His worship was exclusive to men, particularly soldiers, and took place in underground temples (Mithraeums). The cult emphasized seven levels of initiation, secret rituals, and astral connections.
Narratives
The Tauroctony – Mithras slays the cosmic bull, releasing life-giving forces.
The Banquet with Sol – Mithras shares a sacred meal with Sol Invictus, reinforcing his solar connection.
Rock-Born Mithras – Mithras emerges fully formed from a rock, symbolizing divine creation.
Worship Beliefs & Practices
Temples: Mithraeums (underground sanctuaries)
Initiation Rites: Seven grades of initiation
Festivals: December 25th (linked to Sol Invictus)
Sacred Meals: Ritual feasts mimicking Mithras’ banquet with Sol