Rise and Fall of Empires: The Decline of Religion

Chapter Nine

"A decline in religion is a commonly cited phenomenon by historians when discussing periods of decadence.”

Photo by Mona Dennaoui on Unsplash

Historically, the vitality of religious institutions has mirrored the strength or weakness of empires. Empires at their zenith supported and protected religious institutions, ensuring social order and stability.

The Roman Empire, for instance, derived its legitimacy from religious beliefs, and as it expanded, so did the power of its religious institutions. Conversely, during the decline of empires like Rome and the Arab Empire, religious influence waned, impacting societal cohesion.

This article explores this historical interplay, examining the symbiotic relationship between empires and religious institutions. From the Roman Empire's reliance on divine legitimacy to the Arab Empire's decline and its effect on Islamic institutions, we unravel these connections.

The narrative extends to Christianity's profound impact on Western civilisation, shaping political institutions, advocating for human rights, and advancing education and science.