Mithraic Relief

In Persian Zoroastrianism, Mithras was a god of light, truth, and the promised word. In this Roman relief, he wears the Persian costume of folded cap, tunic, and trousers. Mithraism was adapted by the Romans as a mystery cult, much favoured by the Roman army. The cult was exclusively for men. The slaying of the mystic bull implies the triumph of good over evil, the giving of immortality and happiness beyond the grave.