2007-03-26 18:07:29 · 11 answers · asked by hayden 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
well prior to it's conversion to Christianity by Thaddeus it would have been the Emperor of Rome
2007-03-26 18:11:18 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 2⤋
The Pontfix Maximus occupied a position simular to a modern day Pope. The traditional Roman religion (prechristianity) maintained a system that is roughly simular to todays priesthood. There were a College of Pontifices (the high "priesthood") flamens (lesser priest) occupied themselves in the lower realms of the various subcults. Offical policy was to consult the augers (seers)at important events. The auspices (seer readings) ranged from factual to blatently political. Julius Ceaser occupied the position of Pontfix Maximus. After death, he had several flamens dedicated to his cult. Overtime, the position of Pontfix Maximus was bestowed as a honor to the "emperor". Eventualy this gave way to christianity. Ancient Roman religion began as an impartial series of religious festivals. Overtime, they became a part of the political process.
Hope this helps.
2007-03-27 01:24:33 · answer #2 · answered by Stranggore 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Whoever was the Emperor at the time in question. The position of High Priest came with that of Emperor.
Constantine decided to change the national religeon from Roman Paganism to Christianity; however, he never actually reniged his position as High Priest of Rome. This was the start of the trend that contaminated the church.
2007-03-27 01:13:11 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
The Roman Empire lasted a long time... I would have to assume there was more than one chief priest during the thousand or so years of reign.
2007-03-27 01:12:02 · answer #4 · answered by ohbrother 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
hayden: The Roman Empire focused their worship on various gods of their making. The temple contained Vestal virgins, who tended to the inner sanctuary. The grand daddy or chief priest was the Emperor himself, who regarded himself as a god. Sexual practices were very common in Roman worship, as well as, homosexual and animal - human (beastiality) to boot !
2007-03-27 01:20:12 · answer #5 · answered by guraqt2me 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The Roman Empire lasted for something like 2,000 years. At times, worshiping a pantheon of gods and goddesses was popular. Other times, Christianity was popular. There also were many cults and sects, often introduced as Rome conquered other territories.
Basically, I don't think there was ever a chief priest.
2007-03-27 01:11:38 · answer #6 · answered by robot_hooker 4 · 0⤊ 3⤋
The Pontifex Maximus
2007-03-27 01:18:52 · answer #7 · answered by U-98 6 · 0⤊ 2⤋
There was none. The ancient Roman religion isn't Christianity.
2007-03-27 01:11:30 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
the Pontifex Maximus
2007-03-27 01:11:00 · answer #9 · answered by shibboleth839505 2 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Janet Reno
2007-03-27 01:09:07 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 2⤋