What was the Edict of Milan, and when was it agreed upon?

The Edict of Milan was an agreement made in February 313 AD between Roman Emperors Constantine I and Licinius. Its primary purpose was to treat Christians benevolently within the Roman Empire, granting Christianity legal status and ending its persecution. However, it did not establish Christianity as the state religion.

Who were the key figures and where did the agreement known as the Edict of Milan take place?

The agreement was made by Western Roman Emperor Constantine I and Emperor Licinius, who governed the Balkans. They met in Mediolanum, which is the city now known as Milan in modern-day Italy.

When did Christianity officially become the state church of the Roman Empire?

The Edict of Milan did not make Christianity the official state church of the Roman Empire. This significant step occurred later, in AD 380, with the Edict of Thessalonica, which established Nicene Christianity as the normative religion of the empire.

What is the scholarly consensus regarding the historical existence of a formal 'Edict of Milan'?

The scholarly consensus generally rejects the notion of a single, formal 'Edict of Milan' as it has been traditionally described in church history. While the term is widely used, historians debate the exact nature and form of the documents issued.

In which historical texts can versions of the Edict of Milan be found, and what is notable about these sources?

Versions of the Edict of Milan are preserved in two significant historical texts: Lactantius's *De mortibus persecutorum* (On the Deaths of the Persecutors) and Eusebius of Caesarea's *History of the Church*. It is noteworthy that these two sources present marked divergences in their accounts of the edict.

What form does the text attributed to the Edict of Milan take in Lactantius's work?

The version of the Edict found in Lactantius's *De mortibus persecutorum* is not presented as a formal edict. Instead, it appears as a letter issued by Licinius to the governors of the Eastern provinces, which he had recently conquered, and was dispatched from Nicomedia.

What was the significance of the Edict of Serdica issued by Emperor Galerius?

The Edict of Serdica, issued by Emperor Galerius in 311 AD, was an earlier edict of toleration that preceded the agreement at Milan. It officially ended the persecutions of Christians and granted them an indulgence, setting a precedent for the later policies.

How did the Romans view the relationship between their success and their religious practices?

The Romans considered themselves a highly religious people and attributed their success as a world power to their collective piety, known as *pietas*. This piety involved maintaining good relations with the gods, whom they believed were responsible for the empire's prosperity.

How did Roman religion incorporate deities and practices from other cultures?

Roman religion was syncretic, meaning it readily incorporated deities and practices from other cultures. Through processes like *interpretatio graeca* (interpreting foreign gods in terms of Greek ones) and *interpretatio romana* (interpreting Roman gods in terms of foreign ones), foreign religions were often adapted and integrated into the Roman theological system.

What was the Roman concept of *mos maiorum* and its importance?

*Mos maiorum*, meaning 'the way of the ancestors' or 'tradition', was a foundational concept in Roman society. It represented the traditional values, customs, and social norms that were viewed as central to Roman identity and the stability of the state.

Why did the monotheistic stance of Judeo-Christians create friction with Roman religious norms?

The Judeo-Christian insistence on worshipping only one God and rejecting the divinity of other gods conflicted with the Roman polytheistic system. This exclusivity made it difficult for Christians to integrate into the Roman religious hierarchy and participate in state cults.

What specific actions or beliefs of Christians were perceived as threats to the Roman state?

Christians' refusal to swear loyalty oaths directed at the emperor's divinity and their refusal to pay the Jewish tax were perceived as direct threats. These actions were seen not only as disrespect to the state cult but also as a challenge to the authority and stability of the Roman state itself.

What was the nature of Christian persecution under Emperors Decius and Valerian?

Emperor Decius, ruling from 249 to 251 AD, issued edicts that imposed harsh restrictions on Christians. His successor, Valerian, continued this policy of persecution, intensifying the pressure on the Christian community.

What characterized the period known as the 'little peace of the Church'?

The 'little peace of the Church' refers to a period of relative tranquility for Christians lasting nearly 40 years, beginning with the reign of Emperor Gallienus (253–268 AD). During this time, the Church experienced no official sanctions or widespread persecution from the Roman state.

Who issued the Edict of Toleration in 311, and what was its main provision?

The Edict of Toleration in 311 was issued by Emperor Galerius from Nicomedia. Its main provision was to grant an indulgence to Christians, officially ending the state-sponsored persecutions against them.

What was the context of imperial policy towards Christians following the Severan dynasty?

In the period after the fall of the Severan dynasty in AD 235, Roman emperors often used their stance towards Christians as a political tool. Rivals for the imperial throne would either favor or persecute Christians to gain support, leading to an unstable environment for the Christian community.

What did Galerius's Edict of Toleration expect from Christians in return for their freedom?

In exchange for the indulgence granted by Galerius's Edict of Toleration, Christians were expected to pray to their God for the safety of the emperor, the republic, and themselves. This was intended to ensure the continued well-being of the commonwealth and their own security.

What is the status of the original texts of the Edict of Milan?

The original documents referred to as the Edict of Milan have never been retrieved. Historians rely on later transcriptions and accounts, primarily found in the works of Lactantius and Eusebius, which present differing versions.

What specific document, found in Lactantius, was issued in Nicomedia on June 13, 313, and what was its purpose?

Lactantius's *On the Deaths of the Persecutors* includes a letter from Licinius to the governor of Bithynia, dated June 13, 313, and posted in Nicomedia. This letter addressed the principles of religious toleration and the restitution of property to Christians.

What was the core decision made by Constantine and Licinius at their meeting in Milan regarding religion?

At their meeting in Milan, Constantine and Licinius agreed to grant Christians, and indeed all individuals, the freedom to follow the religion of their choice. This decision aimed to ensure that divine powers would be favorable to all under their rule.

How did Eusebius of Caesarea's portrayal of the Edict of Milan differ from other accounts?

Eusebius of Caesarea translated both Galerius's 311 edict and Licinius's 313 letter into Greek for his *History of the Church*. However, in his later work, the *Life of Constantine*, Eusebius significantly downplayed Licinius's role, portraying him negatively as an antagonist to his hero, Constantine.

Who was Maximinus Daza, and how did the Edict of Milan's policy relate to him?

Maximinus Daza was a Caesar in the East who assumed the title of Augustus. The Edict of Milan, particularly Licinius's letter, was effectively aimed at him because he had not fully implemented the repeal of Christian persecution in his territories as Constantine and Licinius had done in the West.

What actions did Maximinus Daza take regarding Christians after Emperor Galerius's death?

Following Galerius's death, Maximinus Daza felt unconstrained by imperial authority. He resumed and intensified persecutions against Christians in the eastern territories under his control and actively encouraged petitions demanding action against them.

What does the inscription found at Arycanda in Lycia reveal about the sentiment towards Christians?

An inscription found at Arycanda in Lycia preserves a petition addressed to Maximinus, Constantine, and Licinius. This petition requested the suppression of Christians, whom it described as disloyal and persistent in their 'mischievous intent,' to prevent them from offending the gods.

What common misconception exists about the Edict of Milan's scope?

A common misconception is that the Edict of Milan solely concerned Christianity or even made it the official religion of the Roman Empire. In reality, while it granted specific liberty to Christians, it also extended religious freedom to all other religions.

What broader religious liberty was granted by the Edict of Milan beyond its focus on Christians?

The Edict of Milan explicitly granted religious liberty to Christians, who had been the target of persecution. However, it also extended this liberty to all other religions, ensuring that everyone had the freedom to worship as they pleased, thereby respecting the dignity of all faiths.

Whose religious policy did the Edict of Milan primarily reflect, and why?

The Edict of Milan primarily reflected the religious policy of Licinius, who was a pagan emperor. This is because Licinius was the one who drafted the letter intended for the Eastern provinces, and it represented his approach to religious tolerance, especially in the context of his conflict with Maximinus.

How did Emperor Constantine's personal religious policy differ from the Edict of Milan?

While the Edict of Milan promoted general religious tolerance, Constantine's personal policy was more actively pro-Christian. He tolerated other religions but actively promoted Christianity, indicating a deeper personal commitment beyond mere tolerance.

What is debated among historians regarding Constantine's motivation for issuing the Edict of Milan?

Historians debate whether Constantine's involvement in the Edict of Milan stemmed from genuine religious faith or pragmatic political calculation. One interpretation suggests it was his initial step in aligning with the Christian God, whom he saw as the most powerful, to ensure imperial stability and protection.

What is the majority historical view on Constantine's conversion and the Edict of Milan?

The majority of historians believe that Constantine's adoption of Christianity was sincere. They view the Edict of Milan as his first official act as a dedicated Christian, a stance further supported by his consistent patronage of Christianity throughout his reign.

What provision regarding confiscated property was missing from Galerius's earlier edict?

Galerius's earlier edict of toleration, while ending persecution, did not address the issue of restoring confiscated property to Christians. This matter was left to be resolved by subsequent decrees.

What did the Edict of Milan decree concerning the confiscated properties of Christians?

The Edict of Milan mandated the return of confiscated properties, including meeting places, to Christians. It stipulated that these properties were to be restored without any payment or claim of recompense from the Christians themselves.

How were current owners of confiscated Christian properties to be compensated under the Edict of Milan?

The Edict of Milan directed that compensation should be paid by the state to the individuals who currently possessed the confiscated Christian properties. This ensured that the restitution to Christians did not leave current owners financially disadvantaged.

What instructions were given to provincial magistrates regarding the restitution of Christian properties?

Provincial magistrates were instructed to execute the order for the restitution of Christian properties immediately and with full energy. The goal was to restore public order and secure the continued favor of the divine for the empire's success.

What were the significant long-term results for Christians following the Edict of Milan?

The immunities and guarantees provided by the Edict of Milan had profound results for Christians. It allowed them to publicly practice their liturgy in its entirety and enabled them to seriously pursue the integration of Christian ideals and standards into the life of the empire.

What is another historical term used to describe the period following the Edict of Milan?

The period following the Edict of Milan, characterized by the improved public status and reduced persecution of the Church, is also historically referred to as the 'Peace of the Church'.

What did the Edict state regarding the removal of restrictions on religious practice?

The Edict stated that it had pleased the emperors to remove all conditions whatsoever, implying a complete cessation of previous restrictions and a granting of full liberty to practice their religion.

What did the Edict of Milan demand of individual Romans concerning past injustices against Christians?

The Edict of Milan demanded that individual Romans rectify any wrongs that had been committed against Christians. This included the restoration of confiscated properties without payment or claim of recompense, ensuring a resolution of past grievances.

What potential political motivations might have influenced the Edict's call for rectifying past wrongs?

The exhortation for Romans to right historic wrongs may have been motivated by the leaders' desire to prevent social unrest and internal instability within the empire. Establishing a state of justice was seen as crucial for overall stability.

What superstitious belief is attributed to Constantine regarding the balance of divine favor?

It is suggested that Constantine held superstitious beliefs and acknowledged the existence of non-Christian gods. He may have been concerned about upsetting the balance of good and evil by neglecting these deities, thus wanting to maintain favor with all divine powers.

What was the perceived benefit of establishing justice with Christians for the Roman state, according to some beliefs?

It was believed that the sooner the Roman state established a state of justice and reconciliation with Christians, the sooner the balance of divine favor would be restored. This restoration was thought to lead to greater stability for the state.

How has the term 'Peace of the Church' been applied in contexts outside the Roman Empire?

The term 'Peace of the Church' has been applied in Great Britain and Ireland to the period following Catholic emancipation (1778–1926). In Germany, it can refer to the time after the Kulturkampf (1871–1878), signifying the end of state-imposed religious conflict.

What related topics are listed in the 'See also' section of the article?

The 'See also' section lists related topics such as Constantine the Great and Christianity, the Constantinian shift, the Peace of God, and the Papacy in late antiquity, providing further context for the historical period.

What resources are available in the 'External links' section for further study of the Edict of Milan?

The 'External links' section provides access to primary source texts, including Galerius and Constantine's Edicts of Toleration from the Medieval Sourcebook, the *Edictum Mediolanense* from the University of Grenoble's Roman Law Library, and Imperial Decrees from Eusebius's *Ecclesiastical History*.

What types of databases are referenced in the 'Authority control' section for the Edict of Milan?

The 'Authority control' section lists identifiers from international databases such as VIAF, national databases for the United States, France (including BnF data), the Czech Republic, and Israel, as well as the IdRef identifier, which help in cataloging and referencing the subject.

What does the source material show regarding Emperor Constantine I?

The source material includes an image of a bust of Emperor Constantine I, identified as Roman and dating from the 4th century.

What is depicted in the image related to the Imperial palace in Milan?

The provided image displays the remains of the Imperial palace in Mediolanum (modern-day Milan). This extensive complex, largely constructed by Maximian, a colleague of Diocletian, featured numerous buildings, gardens, and courtyards that served the emperor's public and private functions, as well as housing his court, family, and administrative staff.

Edict Of Milan Wiki: The Edict of Milan: A Proclamation of Tolerance

Background: Roman Religion and Persecution

Roman Piety and Imperial Stability

The Roman state historically viewed its success as intrinsically linked to maintaining favorable relations with its pantheon of gods through collective piety, or pietas. This religious framework, deeply embedded in the mos maiorum (the way of the ancestors), was foundational to Roman identity. While Rome incorporated deities from conquered peoples through interpretatio graeca and interpretatio romana, the monotheistic and exclusive nature of Judeo-Christian beliefs presented a unique challenge. Christians' refusal to acknowledge other gods or swear loyalty oaths to the emperor's divinity was perceived not merely as religious dissent but as a potential threat to the state itself.

Cycles of Persecution

This fundamental incompatibility led to intermittent periods of persecution against Christians throughout the Roman Empire. Following the Severan dynasty's fall in 235 AD, emperors often used religious policy—either favoring or persecuting Christians—as a tool to garner support. Emperor Decius (r. 249–251) imposed severe restrictions, a policy continued by Valerian. However, Emperor Gallienus (r. 253–268) ushered in a period of relative peace for the Church, lasting nearly four decades, which Eusebius termed the "little peace of the Church." This fragile stability was shattered by renewed persecutions, culminating in the Great Persecution under Diocletian and Galerius.

Galerius's Edict of Toleration (311 AD)

By 311 AD, the landscape began to shift. Emperor Galerius, issuing an edict from Nicomedia, officially ended the widespread persecutions. This decree acknowledged that the attempts to force Christians to abandon their faith had failed and that they continued to worship their own God. It granted Christians the right to exist again and to hold their meetings, provided they did not disturb public order. Crucially, it also instructed them to pray for the safety of the emperor and the state, seeking divine favor for the Republic.

The Edict of Milan: A Meeting of Emperors

Mediolanum Summit

In February 313 AD, Western Roman Emperor Constantine I and Emperor Licinius, ruler of the Balkan provinces, convened in Mediolanum (modern Milan). Their meeting aimed to solidify their alliance and address pressing matters of state. Central to their discussions was the status of Christians within the empire. Building upon Galerius's earlier edict, they agreed to implement a policy of broader religious tolerance.

Licinius's Letter to Provincial Governors

The historical record indicates that the agreement was formalized not as a single imperial edict titled "Edict of Milan," but rather through correspondence. Lactantius preserves a letter from Licinius to the governors of the Eastern provinces, issued from Nicomedia on June 13, 313 AD. This letter, likely reflecting the consensus reached at Milan, formally mandated the cessation of persecution and the restoration of rights to Christians.

The Decree's Provisions

Granting Freedom of Worship

The core tenet of the agreement, as conveyed in Licinius's letter, was the granting of universal religious freedom. It stated:

When we, Constantine Augustus and Licinius Augustus, met so happily at Milan, and considered together all that concerned the interest and security of the State, we decided ... to grant to Christians and to everybody the free power to follow the religion of their choice, in order that all that is divine in the heavens may be favorable and propitious towards all who are placed under our authority.

This declaration extended beyond Christianity, explicitly affirming the right for all individuals to observe their chosen form of worship freely. The decree aimed to ensure that no particular religion was slighted, thereby fostering peace and stability across the diverse empire.

Restitution of Property

Beyond merely halting persecution, the decree mandated the restitution of confiscated properties to Christians. It instructed provincial magistrates to ensure that meeting places and other properties previously seized were returned without payment or compensation. This provision was critical for the rebuilding and public practice of the Christian faith, signifying a profound shift in imperial policy.

...the same shall be restored to the Christians without payment or any claim of recompense and without any kind of fraud or deception.

The state was directed to bear the cost of compensating current owners of these properties, underscoring the commitment to rectifying past injustices.

Broader Religious Liberty

Beyond Christianity

While often remembered for its impact on Christianity, the Edict of Milan's text explicitly granted religious liberty to all subjects of the Roman Empire. The decree stated:

When you see that this has been granted to [Christians] by us, your Worship will know that we have also conceded to all other religions the right of open and free observance of their worship for the sake of the peace of our times, that each one may have the free opportunity to worship as he pleases; this regulation is made that we may not seem to detract from any dignity of any religion.

This comprehensive approach aimed to pacify the empire by allowing diverse religious practices, reflecting a pragmatic political strategy alongside a potential genuine belief in divine favor for a stable state.

Constantine's Active Promotion

It is important to note that while the Edict mandated tolerance, Constantine's personal policy extended beyond mere neutrality. He actively promoted Christianity through various means, including financial support, the construction of churches, and granting privileges to clergy. This active patronage, distinct from the Edict's broader tolerance, set the stage for Christianity's eventual rise to prominence within the empire.

The "Peace of the Church"

A New Era

The period following the Edict of Milan is often referred to as the "Peace of the Church." This era marked the end of official state persecution and allowed Christians to practice their faith openly and rebuild their communities. The restitution of property and the granting of legal status enabled the Church to organize more formally and influence imperial policy.

Societal Transformation

The Edict's implementation facilitated a profound societal transformation. Christians could now engage openly in public life, and the Church could pursue its mission without constant fear of reprisal. While full establishment as the state religion would not occur until the Edict of Thessalonica in 380 AD under Theodosius I, the Edict of Milan represented a monumental turning point, fundamentally altering the relationship between the Roman state and Christianity.

Further Exploration

External Resources

Galerius and Constantine's Edicts of Toleration 311 and 313 (Medieval Sourcebook)
Edictum Mediolanense, Lactantius version (University of Grenoble)
Imperial Decrees from Eusebius's Ecclesiastical History

Scholarly References

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Edict Of Milan" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about edict_of_milan while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

sars-cov-2 in white-tailed deer

german americans

graciela carrillo

metaphysics

canadian parliamentary review

greater downtown miami

References

Frend, W. H. C. (1965). The Early Church. SPCK, p. 137.

Cross and Livingstone. The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church 1974 art. "Milan, Edict of."

Potter, D. Constantine the Emperor 2013 p. 148. He refers to the "Edict of Milan" as the so-called Edict of Milan in note 10 at the top of p. 329.

And similarly in Eusebius.

Sordi, Marta. The Christians and the Roman Empire. Norman: University of Oklahoma Press, 1994. p. 134.

"Paul Halsall, "Galerius and Constantine: Edicts of Toleration 311/313", Fordham University; Fordham.edu; Internet, accessed 13 October 2014.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Edict of Milan Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for academic and educational purposes. The content is derived from a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and is presented to facilitate higher education study. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, it may not encompass all nuances or the most current scholarly interpretations.

This is not professional historical or legal advice. The information provided herein is not a substitute for rigorous academic research, consultation with historical experts, or legal counsel. Users should consult primary sources and peer-reviewed academic literature for comprehensive understanding. Reliance on the information presented here is solely at the user's own risk.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.

The Edict of Milan

Background: Roman Religion and Persecution 🏛️

⚖️ Roman Piety and Imperial Stability

⚔️ Cycles of Persecution

📜 Galerius's Edict of Toleration (311 AD)

The Edict of Milan: A Meeting of Emperors 🤝

📍 Mediolanum Summit

✍️ Licinius's Letter to Provincial Governors

The Decree's Provisions 📄

📜 Granting Freedom of Worship

🔄 Restitution of Property

Broader Religious Liberty 🕊️

🌍 Beyond Christianity

⭐ Constantine's Active Promotion

The "Peace of the Church" 🕊️

⏳ A New Era

🏛️ Societal Transformation

Further Exploration 🔗

➡️ Related Topics

🌐 External Resources

Scholarly References 📚

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Background: Roman Religion and Persecution

Roman Piety and Imperial Stability

Cycles of Persecution

Galerius's Edict of Toleration (311 AD)

The Edict of Milan: A Meeting of Emperors

Mediolanum Summit

Licinius's Letter to Provincial Governors

The Decree's Provisions

Granting Freedom of Worship

Restitution of Property

Broader Religious Liberty

Beyond Christianity

Constantine's Active Promotion

The "Peace of the Church"

A New Era

Societal Transformation

Further Exploration

Related Topics

External Resources

Scholarly References

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice