Clete

I'm not sure which forum this should be in, so mods, please don't hesitate to move it if you feel it belongs somewhere else.

I read a post on another forum recently where a Christian poster was alleging that Nero was an atheist. Does anyone know if this claim is true?

I guess I always assumed Nero practiced the polytheistic Roman state religion (not that it's a question I've really pondered before). I tried to do a little search online but wasn't able to find anything conclusive. Any thoughts? Was he truly an atheist or is this another case of Christians describing anyone who doesn't believe in their god as an "atheist"?

The Evil One

Nero was the High Priest of Rome, since this office went along with being Emperor.

Clete

Ah, so it is a case where someone is described as being an "atheist" because they are not a Christian! Interesting.

Anyone have any further thoughts on this?

Kryten

I have read the contemporary historical texts and at this time cannot remember ever having read Nero was an atheist. I very much doubt he was.

Llyricist

Interesting to note that the Roman Pagans called Christians atheists back in those days. (because they refused to worship THEIR gods)

Clete

That is interesting! Just goes to show how loaded words can be.

I remember hearing before that to the Greeks the word "barbarian" meant "not Greek". How did it come to its present meaning? Well obviously if you aren't Greek you can't be civilized. It just goes without saying.

Postcard73

Moving to GRD...

Scott (Postcard73)
BC&H Moderator