Los cultos tradicionales en la política legislativa del Emperador Constantino, 306-337

Book Description

This scholarly exploration examines how Emperor Constantine navigated the complex relationship between traditional Roman religious practices and emerging Christian influence during his reign from 306 to 337 CE. Rather than implementing a systematic program of religious reform, Constantine approached traditional cults through case-by-case legislative decisions, responding to specific requests from administrative officials, governors, provincial leaders, and occasionally bishops.

The emperor's approach reveals a nuanced balance between restriction and preservation. While he prohibited certain practices like nighttime sacrificial divination for security reasons, he simultaneously promoted others, including imperial cult celebrations and the Dies Solis festival, which embodied Roman ideals of victory and prosperity. Constantine maintained legal protections for traditional priesthoods while ensuring Christians weren't forced to participate in or financially support practices that conflicted with their beliefs.

This study illuminates how Constantine used religious legislation as a tool for reinforcing imperial authority, positioning his legal decisions above established customs and precedents. Despite his official conversion to Christianity in 324, he recognized that traditional religious practices represented Roman institutional continuity and historical grandeur. By legally protecting these customs while respecting Christian conscience, Constantine sought to establish legitimacy as founder of a renewed empire.

For readers interested in understanding how spiritual and political power intersect, this work offers insights into the delicate process of religious transformation within established governmental structures, demonstrating how leaders can honor diverse spiritual traditions while navigating competing religious loyalties.