GODS AND EMPERORS: THE GREEK LANGUAGE OF THE ROMAN IMPERIAL CULT.

The article focuses on the different terms used to address the ruler by the Greeks, when Greece was under the Roman Empire. The socio-religious implications of such terms are examined. The usage of theos, both in general and in relation to a Roman emperor is discussed. It is noted that theos has a different meaning from its conventional usage and that its predication of the emperor must be understood in a Greek context. Some of the implications of this point by looking at other related aspects of the language used both in describing and in addressing the emperor in religious contexts are also explored. The significance of this language for one's understanding of Greek religion is also mentioned.