Cultus Deorum...
 

Hi guys!

I've taken an interest on and off about pre-Christian religion(s) of Rome. Cultus Deorum I think it's called. I have a basic understanding of each God and Goddess, esp. the Dii Consentes. I understand it's origins as a "spirit" religion, based on nature and spirits of the ancestors, and its mixture with Etruscan and Greek religious beliefs and practice, but I'm actually more geared towards the transitional Republican-Imperial period of religion in Rome, the practices, etc.

I guess between my love(or unhealthy obsession some would say :D ) for Roman history and culture, and my family's oral stories which talk about our Roman origins, and a special affinity to the Gods, it's something I've wanted to take on, but haven't taken the initiative to do so. I don't know if I want to participate in any, liturgy, or rites, I guess is the better word, but I do know I want to at least learn it's history, and in depth. Anything good like books, websites, etc. would be marvelous :D

And please, if I'm misguided on something, don't be afraid to show me differently :smile:

My interest is mostly concerned with Hellenic religion; so I am not an expert on Roman by any means...

I haven't heard of the Cultus Deorum, but the part you said about "spirit religion" sparked my memory of Numinism, which I THINK is a spiritual philosophy born from several Roman philosophers (Might be wrong though).

I do know that the modern Reconstruction of Roman religion is called Religio Romana. I am not too familiar with it though besides a vague outline of it.

Here's some websites that look decent (but remember that independent research is a priceless thing):

http://www.religioromana.net/about.htm

http://www.ecauldron.net/reconroman.php (btw this site is invaluable for info on all kinds of pagan religion)

http://www.novaroma.org/religio_romana/

I can't help much more sadly. My advice would to be what worked for me - read, read, read and talk to people about, whether online or in person.

Good luck, I hope I've VAGUELY helped! :tongue:

Thanks, will def. look into it :)

Anyone know anything about the book "Introduction to Roman Religion" by John Scheid. I hear it's a good book. Wonder what other's thoughts are?