Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
mithras
Noun
/ˈmɪθrəs/
Definition
Mithras is a deity associated with the ancient Roman mystery religion of Mithraism, which was popular in the Roman Empire from the 1st to 4th century CE.
Examples
- Mithras was worshipped in the underground temples known as mithraea.
- The image of Mithras slaying the bull is a common motif in Mithraic art.
- Many Roman soldiers were attracted to Mithraism because of its promise of salvation and eternal life.
Meaning
Mithras is often identified as a god of light and truth, associated with the sun and often depicted as slaying a bull, which is a central symbol in Mithraic rituals.
Synonyms
- none (Mithras is a unique figure in its own right)
