A Study of Mithraism

During the first semester of his sophomore year at Crozer, King composed a paper for Enslin’s course on Greek religion, focusing on Mithraism. This monotheistic mystery religion, which revered Mithra as the defender of truth, was widespread within the Roman Empire before Christianity’s rise in the fourth century. Mithraism, rooted in Zoroastrianism, saw a decline in followers after Roman emperors outlawed its practices, allowing Christianity to usurp its once-dominant position. Enslin awarded the essay an A, commenting, "This is an exceedingly good paper. You have offered a thorough overview of the critical details in a balanced and restrained manner. Moreover, your writing skills are commendable. You are destined for great achievements if you continue to dedicate yourself."