Place of Origin: Ancient Rome (influenced by Syrian and Eastern solar cults)
Origin Date: Circa 274 CE (revived by Emperor Aurelian)
Domain: The sun, light, and cosmic order
Symbols: Sunburst, radiate crown, chariot
Attributes: Light, power, invincibility, and renewal
Epithets: The Unconquered Sun, Radiant One, Light-Bringer
Equivalents: Greek: Helios; Syrian: Elagabal; Mesopotamian: Shamash
Religion: Roman mythology
Sacred Texts: Inscriptions and dedications to Sol Invictus, such as those found in Roman temples and on coins, serve as primary sources of his worship.
Iconography: Sol Invictus is typically depicted as a youthful, radiant figure with a crown of rays, often driving a chariot across the sky. His imagery appeared on coins, statues, and reliefs throughout the Roman Empire.
Relations: Syncretized with other solar deities, such as Apollo and Mithras
Description
Sol Invictus, meaning "Unconquered Sun," was the official sun god of the late Roman Empire. Revived by Emperor Aurelian in 274 CE, Sol Invictus symbolized light, power, and invincibility. He was often depicted as a radiant figure wearing a crown of rays, driving a chariot across the sky. His cult aimed to unify the diverse religious practices of the empire, emphasizing the sun's role as a life-sustaining force. Sol Invictus was celebrated through festivals, such as the Dies Natalis Solis Invicti on December 25th, which marked the rebirth of the sun. His prominence declined with the rise of Christianity, but his imagery influenced early Christian art and symbolism.
Narratives
The Revival by Aurelian: Emperor Aurelian established Sol Invictus as the chief deity of the Roman Empire, building a grand temple in his honor and promoting his worship as a unifying force. (Source: Hijmans, S. E. (2009). Sol: The Sun in the Art and Religions of Rome. Brill.)
The Chariot of the Sun: Sol Invictus is often depicted driving a four-horse chariot across the sky, symbolizing his daily journey and the cycle of light. (Source: Hijmans, S. E. (2009). Sol: The Sun in the Art and Religions of Rome. Brill.)
Worship Beliefs and Practices
Worship of Sol Invictus included daily salutations to the rising sun, offerings, and grand festivals. The Dies Natalis Solis Invicti on December 25th was a major celebration, featuring processions and feasts. Temples dedicated to Sol Invictus, such as the one built by Aurelian in Rome, served as centers of worship.