Please do not think that this thread is just for Shaquilat! Far from it! This forum is open to anyone who has something to say about any aspect about the Roman worship of Isis, Osirus, Serapis, Horus, and Harpocrates.

My knowledge of this topic is minimal at best. I took the position of leader of this thread because: (1) I have problems saying, "No," (2) No one had volunteered, and (3) I felt strongly that the subject is vitally important in our study of Roman religions and in the development of Christianity.

The Isis cult was the last of the pagan religions to survive the advent of Christianity. Philae, its last center of worship remained open until the sixth century when it was finally closed on Justinian's order. Even then, Isis did not simply disappear. Instead, it seems that certain aspects of her worship found their way into the developing Christian cult of the Virgin Mary.

Indeed, once we know more about Isis, comparing and contrasting the cults of Isis and the Virgin Mary might provide an interesting topic for discussion. For example, one of the Virgin Mary's appellations was "Star of the Sea." Before Mary, Isis was addressed by this title.

AzureEyes, or anyone who knows, if you would, it would be very helpful to everyone reading this thread, if you could post little about the story of Osirus' death and resurrection. It would make a good starting point for our discussion. If you know about it, here is your chance to share it with the rest of us.

My idea for this thread has been that we will all benefit by sharing what we know. I am planning to do my share by posting soon. At present, I have not had time to scan and to download the images that I want to use to illustrate my brief essay. In the meantime everyone, please feel free to post.