fufufafaThe tale of Rome’s founding is one steeped in a rich tapestry of myth and legend, a traditional story passed down through generations by the ancient Roman people. Far from a historical account, this narrative belongs to the realm of folklore, offering a glimpse into the cultural imagination and worldview of a civilization that profoundly shaped the Western world. It is a story not meant to be believed as truth or practiced as worship, but rather understood for its cultural, historical, and educational significance, illustrating how a powerful empire envisioned its own divine origins.
Origins and Cultural Background
This captivating myth emerged from the heart of ancient Roman civilization, flourishing particularly during the Roman Republic and early Empire. This was an era where the boundary between the mundane and the divine was porous, where gods and goddesses were believed to actively intervene in human affairs. The Romans were a deeply religious people, though their religion was less about personal salvation and more about maintaining the pax deorum—the peace of the gods—through ritual, sacrifice, and strict adherence to tradition.
Their world was animated by countless deities, spirits, and omens. Every natural phenomenon, every significant event, every aspect of daily life, from the planting of crops to the waging of war, was believed to be under the purview of specific divine powers. People of this time viewed the world as a complex interplay of human agency and divine will, constantly seeking signs and portents from the gods to guide their decisions. The success and prosperity of Rome were intrinsically linked to the favor of its patron deities, making the establishment of a city, especially one destined for greatness, an event that simply had to be sanctioned by the heavens.
Jupiter: King of the Gods
At the pinnacle of the Roman pantheon stood Jupiter, known to the Greeks as Zeus. He was the undisputed king of the gods, the paramount deity of the Roman state, and a figure of immense power and authority. Jupiter was revered as the god of the sky, lightning, and thunder, his wrath manifesting in devastating storms and his benevolence in clear skies. He was the protector of Rome, the guardian of oaths and treaties, and the dispenser of victory in battle.
Symbolically, Jupiter was often depicted with a lightning bolt in one hand and a scepter in the other, signifying his dominion over both cosmic forces and earthly rule. His sacred animal was the eagle, a powerful bird that soared above all others, embodying majesty, strength, and divine foresight—an emblem that would later become a potent symbol of the Roman legions themselves. The oak tree was also sacred to him, representing enduring strength and wisdom. In his aspect as Jupiter Lapis (Jupiter the Stone), he presided over the sanctity of oaths, with oaths sworn by him considered inviolable. It is crucial to remember that these descriptions are symbolic attributes within a mythological framework, serving to illustrate the perceived nature and role of this figure in ancient Roman culture, rather than promoting belief in his actual existence or divine power.
The Main Story: The Oath of Founding
The narrative of Rome’s founding is a dramatic saga, woven from threads of heroism, fratricide, and perceived divine intervention. It begins long before Romulus and Remus, tracing Rome’s lineage back to the Trojan hero Aeneas, who, after the fall of Troy, journeyed to Italy under the guidance of the gods. His descendants eventually established the kingdom of Alba Longa, from which Romulus and Remus would later emerge.
The twins, Romulus and Remus, were born of Rhea Silvia, a Vestal Virgin, and (mythologically) the god Mars. Condemned to death by their tyrannical great-uncle Amulius, who feared their claim to the throne, they were cast into the Tiber River. Miraculously, the basket carrying them washed ashore, where they were discovered and suckled by a she-wolf (Lupa Capitolina)—a powerful and enduring image in Roman mythology. Later, they were found and raised by a shepherd named Faustulus and his wife, Acca Larentia, growing into strong, natural leaders.
Upon learning of their true lineage, Romulus and Remus overthrew Amulius and restored their grandfather Numitor to the throne of Alba Longa. However, their ambition soared beyond the existing city. They resolved to found a new settlement, a grand city that would become the capital of their nascent civilization. But a bitter dispute arose: where should the city be built? Romulus favored the Palatine Hill, while Remus preferred the Aventine Hill. Unable to agree, they decided to appeal to the gods for a sign, a divine omen that would indicate which brother had the favor of Jupiter and thus the right to found the city and name it. This practice, known as augury, was central to Roman decision-making, where the flight of birds or other natural phenomena were interpreted as messages from the divine.
Each brother took his stand on his chosen hill, meticulously observing the sky for any sign. According to the legend, Remus was the first to receive an omen: he saw six vultures soaring high above the Aventine. Elated, he claimed the right to found the city. However, shortly after, Romulus saw an even more auspicious sign: twelve vultures circling over the Palatine Hill. The debate intensified. Remus argued that he had seen the birds first, while Romulus contended that his omen was superior due to the greater number of birds.
It was in this moment of contention that the perceived "Oath of Founding" by Jupiter was revealed through the augury. The greater number of vultures seen by Romulus was interpreted by his followers, and later by Roman tradition, as a clear and unequivocal sign of Jupiter’s favor. Twelve birds, twice the number seen by Remus, were understood to signify a greater divine blessing, an endorsement from the king of the gods himself. This was Jupiter’s silent, powerful oath, signifying his chosen candidate and his blessing upon the future city.
With this divine sanction, Romulus began to plow a sacred furrow (the pomerium) around the Palatine Hill, marking the boundaries of his new city. This act was deeply symbolic, consecrating the ground and establishing a sacred space. Remus, still resentful and defiant, mocked his brother’s efforts, eventually leaping over the newly plowed furrow in an act of contempt and transgression. In a fit of rage, or perhaps out of an unyielding commitment to the sanctity of the city’s boundaries, Romulus struck Remus down, declaring, "So perish whoever else shall overleap my walls!" With his brother dead, Romulus became the sole founder and first king of the city, which he named Rome, after himself. Thus, the city was established, its very foundation rooted in a perceived divine mandate from Jupiter and sealed with the tragic blood of a brother.
Symbolism and Meaning
To the ancient Romans, the myth of Romulus, Remus, and Jupiter’s augury was far more than a mere story; it was a foundational narrative that imbued their city with profound meaning and purpose. It served as a powerful testament to Rome’s divine destiny and legitimacy. The myth conveyed that Rome was not merely a human creation but a city chosen and blessed by the supreme deity, Jupiter. This divine sanction provided a potent justification for Rome’s future expansion, its perceived right to rule, and its unique place in the world.
The reliance on augury highlighted the importance of divine communication and the interpretation of omens in Roman society, reinforcing the belief that the gods were actively involved in guiding human affairs. The tragic death of Remus, while a somber note, also symbolized the absolute sanctity of the city’s laws and boundaries—a powerful message about the necessity of order and the consequences of transgression. Furthermore, Romulus, as the divinely chosen leader, embodied the ideal of a strong, decisive ruler, capable of great vision and willing to make difficult sacrifices for the sake of the state. Ultimately, the story reinforced core Roman values of piety towards the gods, respect for law, and an unwavering belief in their manifest destiny.
Modern Perspective
Today, the myth of Jupiter and the founding of Rome continues to captivate and educate, interpreted through various lenses in literature, art, and cultural studies. It is no longer viewed as a literal historical account but as a crucial piece of ancient Roman cultural heritage, offering invaluable insights into their societal values, political aspirations, and religious beliefs.
In literature, the story has been retold countless times, from ancient epic poems like Virgil’s Aeneid (which sets the stage for Rome’s founding) and Ovid’s Fasti to modern historical fiction and fantasy novels. Art, particularly sculpture and painting, has frequently depicted iconic scenes like the she-wolf suckling Romulus and Remus, or the augury on the hills, ensuring these images remain recognizable symbols of Rome.
In cultural studies and education, the myth is analyzed for its psychological, sociological, and political dimensions. It is studied to understand the formation of national identity, the use of myth for political propaganda, and the enduring power of storytelling. Elements of the myth, such as the imagery of the Roman eagle or the concept of a divinely appointed destiny, still resonate in various forms of media, from historical dramas and video games (like Assassin’s Creed or Ryse: Son of Rome) that draw upon Roman lore, to academic discussions on classical civilization. It serves as a reminder of humanity’s innate need to craft narratives that explain origins, justify power, and instill a sense of shared purpose.
Conclusion
The narrative of Jupiter and the Oath of Founding of Rome stands as a testament to the vivid imagination and deep cultural identity of the ancient Roman people. It is a powerful story, rich in symbolism and dramatic flair, which provided a divine framework for their aspirations and achievements. It is crucial to re-emphasize that this is a cultural story, a product of ancient folklore and tradition, not a belief system to be adopted or a historical truth to be literally accepted.
As Muslims, we recognize that only Allah (God) is the true Creator and Sustainer of all existence, the One without partners or equals, who alone holds divine power and authority. We understand that such mythological tales, while culturally significant, are human constructs that reflect the beliefs and worldview of their time, distinct from the singular truth of monotheism. Nonetheless, by exploring these narratives, we gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of human thought, the enduring power of storytelling, and the rich tapestry of cultural heritage that defines our global past. These stories, though rooted in ancient fables, continue to inspire reflection on themes of leadership, destiny, and the human endeavor to understand the world around us.
