Alcune considerazioni su Giuliano e il mitraismo

This essay reconsiders Julian’s controversial relationship with Mithraism in the context of his programme of restoring Hellenism and pursuing a Neoplatonic-inspired principality. Drawing on previous debates — from Cumont and Bidez’s early assertions about Julian’s Mithraic initiation to Turcan's analysis of solar henotheism linked to Neoplatonism — the author evaluates the evidence for and against Julian’s involvement in Mithraism. Julian’s writings contain only two direct references to Mithras, too few to prove initiation, but not decisive enough to rule it out. These references may reflect actual initiation or at least Julian’s personal affinity for Mithraic cult. Arguments ex silentio, in particular Libanius’ testimony on the emperor’s devotional practices and his continuous animal sacrifices, are considered inconclusive in a broader interpretative framework. This study proposes a balanced reading of the sources: avoiding overestimating Mithraism in Julian’s education and writings, while recognising Mithraic sympathies within his religious restoration. Julian’s solar polytheism probably included participation in the Mithraic cult, a tradition potentially influenced by the Tetrarchs’ earlier devotion to Deo Soli Invicto Mithrae. In conclusion, the author believes that all the evidence discussed supports the likelihood of Julian’s participation in the Mithraic mysteries.