The Romanist Understanding of the Gods Beyond the Divine Triad
In Romanism, while the Divine Triad—Jove, Magna Mater, and Dionysus—forms the central expression of divinity, the other gods are understood as the divine children of Jove. They are not abstract archetypes or impersonal forces but true divine persons, each possessing their own intellect, will, and personality. These gods are intellectual beings who guide the eternal forms through all aspects of reality, ensuring the harmony and order of creation.
The Nature of the Gods
As the offspring of Jove, the gods are distinct, living personalities who reflect the divine essence in unique ways. They are:
- Personal and Relational: Each god is a person, capable of engaging with humanity and the cosmos in a meaningful and dynamic way.
- Intellectual Beings: Operating on a higher plane of existence, they shape and sustain the eternal forms, which are the divine blueprints of reality.
- Participants in Divine Unity: Though distinct individuals, they remain interconnected, reflecting the unity of Jove’s intellect and the divine purpose.
The Gods and the Eternal Forms
In Romanist theology, the eternal forms are immutable patterns that underlie all existence, from the structure of the cosmos to the virtues that shape human life. The gods serve as intermediaries between the ineffable One, the Divine Triad, and the world by:
- Animating the Forms: They bring the eternal forms to life, ensuring that these divine patterns manifest harmoniously in the material and spiritual realms.
- Guiding Creation: Each god actively governs a specific sphere of existence, such as wisdom, love, or courage, infusing it with their own divine personality.
- Engaging with Humanity: The gods do not remain distant but instead engage with humans, offering guidance, inspiration, and a personal relationship with the divine.
Honoring the Divine Children
Engaging with the gods involves aligning ourselves with the eternal forms they guide while also building a relationship with them as divine persons. This can include:
- Contemplation of Their Qualities: Understanding the unique personality and virtues of each god and striving to embody their qualities.
- Ritual Devotion: Honoring the gods through rituals and offerings that recognize their personal presence and influence.
- Seeking Their Guidance: Approaching the gods in prayer or meditation to seek their wisdom and support.
Examples of Divine Roles
- Minerva: A wise and strategic goddess who governs the eternal forms of knowledge, rationality, and craftsmanship. She is not merely an idea of wisdom but a living guide for intellectual and creative pursuits.
- Mars: A bold and disciplined god who animates the forms of courage and strength. His personality reflects both the ferocity of war and the justice of rightful action.
- Venus: A loving and harmonious goddess who shapes the forms of beauty, unity, and affection. Her influence inspires connection and the pursuit of divine love.
A Dynamic Vision of the Divine
In Romanism, the gods are divine persons, not abstract concepts. As living beings, they actively participate in the divine order of the cosmos, shaping reality through their intellect and personality. They guide the eternal forms, infusing the world with their unique presence, and invite us into relationship with them as both individuals and as part of the broader divine family.
Through the gods, we encounter the richness and diversity of divine expression, finding pathways to wisdom, harmony, and alignment with the eternal truths they embody.