Introduction
Anthropologists and historians have brought to light specific social practices harking back to the highest antiquity – among them the homage or veneration paid to one or many gods by generations down the ages. These practices are inherent to a cult, itself a key element of religions through which the relation between the believers and their gods, their invoking them, praying to them or thanking them, is channelled. The cult is the moment in religious life when the faithful come together and communicate between themselves or with the gods of their faith.
The modalities in the relation to others vary according to circumstances or status, with clear distinctions between that of humans and gods. The object offered is a gift if its recipient is a relation or a friend; it is an offering or a sacrifice when its purpose is to seek conciliation with or express submission or gratitude to the gods. These forms of giving, practiced throughout ancient societies pertain to all social classes, Archaeological sources, notably mosaics, give an insight into their nature.
