You have come to the right spot if you are interested in learning more about ancient Rome's religious beliefs. Learn more about the Romans' gods (the 'lares), and learn about their rituals. You'll also find out how they made sacrifices to win in battle. This will help you understand why the 'lares' were so influential in early Roman History.
Romans worshipped lares'
The Romans worshipped 'lares,' a god of the weather, in a variety of ways. The gods were single or paired divinities, and were often associated with the same place 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 often depicted as sculptures or statues.
They worshipped the sun
Sun worship was the dominant religion during the Roman Empire. Many Roman gods had solar characteristics, and the sun was considered the highest being in all of the pantheon. Even Christ and Mithra had solar qualities. Constantine I, the Roman emperor, was a strong advocate of the sun cult. Constantius II was his son and he legitimized this sun cult when he changed the date of Jesus' birth to December 25.
They offered to sacrifice animals
Animal sacrifice was a practice that helped create political and socio-economic hierarchies as well as civic compromise. It also communicated implicit beliefs concerning the divine. Romans believed animals were part the world and could harm or help people. These beliefs were projected onto an almost divine level through animal sacrifice.
They did rituals to win battle
Romans were well-known to have performed rituals in order for them to win battles. Some rituals were open to the public, while others were more private. The sacrifices they offered were often made to the gods, to heroes, or to the dead. These sacrifices may be private or public and take different forms. They could be food sacrifices to the gods or burned offerings to them. Romans offered blood for sacrifice.
They performed 'augures’ to predict the future.
Romans practiced 'augures.' This was divination by looking at omens found in nature. They looked at animals' behavior, as well the parts of plants. This practice was taken very seriously, as the gods were believed to have a hand in predicting the future.
They believed in Emperor worship
Romans believed in emperor worship in the ancient world. There were many rituals and prescriptions to honor the Emperor. This devotion extended beyond the realm of politics.