>>511102008 (OP)While Alexander the Great was a product of his time and participated in traditional Greek religious practices, including those associated with the Dodekatheon, his beliefs evolved throughout his life and were influenced by his conquests and interactions with other cultures. He saw himself as more than just a mortal, potentially believing in his own divinity, possibly influenced by the Greek concept of heroes with divine parentage.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Traditional Greek Religion:
Alexander participated in traditional Greek religious practices, including sacrifices to various gods, demonstrating his belief in the Greek pantheon, which included the Dodekatheon.
Openness to Other Cultures:
Alexander was open-minded to the religious beliefs of the people he conquered, including the Egyptian god Apis, which suggests a broader understanding of the divine than strict adherence to the Dodekatheon.
Belief in his Divinity:
As his conquests progressed, Alexander seemed to develop a belief in his own divinity, potentially seeing himself as a living embodiment of Zeus, the king of the gods. This is not necessarily a rejection of the Dodekatheon, but an elevation of himself within that framework.
Influenced by Heroes:
Alexander was heavily influenced by figures like Heracles and Achilles, who were considered heroes with divine connections, and this may have contributed to his evolving self-perception.
Strategic Use of Religion:
Alexander also strategically used religion to solidify his power and legitimize his rule, both among the Greeks and the conquered populations.
Deification Decree:
While the idea of Alexander issuing a deification decree is debated, some historians suggest it was a way to impose his authority on Greek cities.
Evolution of Belief:
It's likely that Alexander's religious beliefs evolved over time, influenced by his experiences and interactions with different cultures.