divus

Roman deification measurement

Also known as: divi

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June 25, 2026

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In Roman history, divus referred to the deification of individuals, primarily emperors, after their death. This practice, known as apotheosis, elevated a person to the status of a god. The concept was influenced by Greek traditions of honoring heroes and demigods, as well as Oriental monarchies that supported dynasties with divine associations.1

The Roman imperial cult, particularly after the civil wars ended in 30 BCE, saw victorious leaders like Octavian (Augustus) and Julius Caesar deified. This was seen as a reward for gifts deemed worthy of a god, such as the peace Augustus brought. While emperors were not typically considered gods during their lifetime, their numen (divine presence) and genius (life spirit) were incorporated into cults, paving the way for posthumous deification. These divi were venerated and thanked, distinct from the Olympian gods called dei. The imperial cult served as a unifying force in the diverse empire.23

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ancient Rome
Appraisal of Augustus
…the Senate unhesitatingly pronounced him divus—the deified one who had restored peace, organized a standing army to defend the frontiers, expanded those frontiers farther than any previous Roman, improved administrative practices everywhere, promoted better standards of public and private behaviour, integrated Rome and Italy, embellished Rome, reconciled the provinces, expedited…
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…the Senate unhesitatingly pronounced him divus—the deified one who had restored peace, organized a standing army to defend the frontiers, expanded those frontiers farther than any previous Roman, improved administrative practices everywhere, promoted better standards of public and private behaviour, integrated Rome and Italy, embellished Rome, reconciled the provinces, expedited…
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Roman religion
The imperial cult
…their lives—to raise them to divinity after their deaths. They were called divi, not dei like the Olympian gods; the latter were prayed to, but the former were regarded with veneration and gratitude.
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…their lives—to raise them to divinity after their deaths. They were called divi, not dei like the Olympian gods; the latter were prayed to, but the former were regarded with veneration and gratitude.
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