Alexander the Great: The Conqueror's Relationship with Religion
Alexander the Great, one of history's most famous conquerors, was more than just a brilliant military tactician. His relationship with religion was as complex and multifaceted as his empire, spanning from Greece to the fringes of India. To understand Alexander’s world, one must dive into the deep, spiritual undercurrents that guided his ambitions, diplomacy, and vision of unity. Divine Origins: Son of Zeus or Mortal King? From the very beginning, Alexander’s connection to the divine was carefully crafted. His mother, Olympias, fervently believed that Alexander was the son of Zeus, the king of the Greek gods, and not the mortal king Philip II of Macedon. This belief shaped Alexander’s self-image and his public persona. He often portrayed himself as divinely chosen, destined for greatness. This divine lineage wasn’t just a personal belief; it was political. In an era when kings often claimed divine favor, positioning himself as the son of Zeus helped cement Alexander's authority ...