Similar to the Greeks, the Romans worshipped various Gods, but in a slightly different way. They did it for their own benefit. Their offerings had a special meaning.
The Romans believed that the souls of their dead would have survived and helped them in case of need. So, they worshipped the dead as protecting gods of their homes.
They wouldn't undertake anything important without a sign of the Gods' approval. Romans took into consideration the flight of birds, if the sacred chickens ate or didn't eat the food offered them, or analyzed the entrails of dead animals.
Some emperors interpreted the outcomes at their pleasure; others repeated the tests until the result was in their favor. A battle, undertaken with the favor of gods, meant a sure success.
Other religions were tolerated and frequently the Romans worshipped foreign divinities too. The situation was different for Christianity. Its followers did not participate in the social life of the other citizens and refused to adore the Emperor. For these reasons, many doubted their loyalty and the persecution of the Christians soon began.

(Rita B.)

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