User:Cwolffu/New sandbox

Temple of Isis

Isis is the goddess of fertility and rebirth, and was one of the central goddesses in ancient Egyptian religion and mythology. It is believed that the cult of Isis arrived in Pompeii approximately 100BC, most likely introduced by the Greeks. It became popular among slaves, freedmen, women and later the nobility with followers believing that Isis could grant eternal life as she resurrected her slain husband (Osiris) from the dead. The temple dedicated to her worship is located in the theatre and gymnasium district of Pompeii. At this temple priests held two daily ceremonies. The first, celebrated before sunrise, memorialised the re-birth of Osiris while the second, celebrated in the afternoon, blessed sacred Nile water to give thanks to Isis. The temple was destroyed during the 62 AD earthquake but was quickly rebuilt, displaying Isis’ popularity in Pompeii.