Antika riter : En komparativ studie av romerska och tidiga kristna riter

Sammanfattning: This study investigates the similarities between early Christian- and Roman rites, and examines if these similarities are fruits of influences taken from roman rites. Christianity outlived roman religion but perhaps, through syncretism, some aspects or elements survived as part of the Christian faith. This study focuses on religious roman rituals, how the Christians implemented or rejected it, and what the motivation behind the rejection was, if expressed.Ritual group meals and the concept of sacrifice is the two most similar rituals traits in these religions. The group-affirming and ideal-creating function of the meal rituals are similar in both religions, and the concept of sacrifice exists in both as central elements of the religion. However, the Christian rejection of animal sacrifice and the destruction of the temple of Jerusalem created a new understanding of the concept. The offer-ritual centered on remembering the only sacrifice that was needed, the perfect sacrifice, the one of Jesus Christ.