This classic work has been long known as the best introduction and overview of the early cult of Mithraism. He traces the original worship of Mithras back to ancient Hinduism and up through Persia, but points out that this particular expression, found in the Roman Empire, originated there. Before Christianity stamped it out, it had gained strength rapidly and was the main pagan religion of its time. This book puts Christianity and Mithraism side by side in the Roman Empire and reveals exactly how and why Christianity survived and the Mithraism did not. The author, Cumont, spent years researching everything about Mithraism and few other experts can rival his knowledge in this area. Chapters include The Origins of Mithraism, The Dissemination of Mithraism in the Roman Empire, Mithra and the Imperial Power in Rome, The Doctrine of the Mithraic Mysteries, The Mithraic Liturgy, Clergy and Devotees, Mithraism and the Religions of the Empire, and Mithraic Art. Includes 50 detailed illustrations and index.