Religious Transformation in the City of Emesa, Syria: From Paganism to Christianity During the Roman and Early-Byzantine Periods

The evolution of religious life in Emesa under Roman and early Byzantine times is examined in this paper. It shows how the religious surrounds of the city changed from the worship of local gods, such Elagabalus, to the general acceptance of Christianity in the fourth century AD. Examining the political and social factors causing this transformation reveals a complicated history of religious tolerance and struggle that at last let Christianity flourish. The study stresses the significance of Emesa's religious and urban character in this amazing change as well as the influence of rising elites on these features. This study closed in gaps on the building and location of well-known buildings including the Temple of the Sun by use of archeological data and historical witness. It shows also how Christian churches evolved from pagan temples. Finally, this study clarifies the special situation of Emesa among other Eastern Roman cities, therefore improving our knowledge of the complex religious reform movement at this crucial point.