ELAGABALUS Meaning and
Definition
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Elagabalus refers to a historical figure and can be described as the nickname given to Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Augustus, who was a Roman emperor reigning from 218 to 222 AD. Born in 204 AD in Syria, Elagabalus, originally named Varius Avitus Bassianus, was particularly known for his controversial and scandalous behavior during his tumultuous reign.
Elagabalus gained his nickname due to his devotion to the god Elagabal (also known as Elagabalus), whom he believed to be the supreme deity. Elagabalus introduced the worship of Elagabal to Rome and tried to elevate the god's status above all others within the Roman religious framework. This choice was met with significant opposition from both the Roman Senate and the general population due to its direct contradiction with traditional Roman religious practices.
Furthermore, Elagabalus's reign was marred by rampant extravagance, including lavish spending, excessive parties, and excessive displays of wealth and indulgence. He was also infamous for his unconventional and scandalous personal life, which involved multiple marriages, allegations of incestuous relationships, and unconventional sexual behavior.
Due to his short and tumultuous reign filled with controversy and eccentricity, the name Elagabalus has become synonymous with scandal, excess, and moral depravity. It is often invoked to describe individuals or situations characterized by these qualities, showcasing the lasting impact and notoriety of this polarizing Roman emperor.
Etymology of ELAGABALUS
The word "Elagabalus" is a Latinized form of the Greek name "Ελαγάβαλος" (Elagabalos). It ultimately derives from the Aramaic phrase "אילה גבל" (Elah Gabal), which means "God of the Mountain" or "God of Gabal".
Elagabalus was the Latin name for the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Augustus, who ruled from 218 to 222 AD. He was given this name due to his devotion to the deity known as Elagabal, who was primarily worshipped in the city of Emesa (in modern-day Syria) during Elagabalus' reign. Elagabal was considered the sun god and was associated with the mountain where his temple was located.
