[Lucius Cornelius Sulla]

I thought that Mithraism was derived originally from Zoroastrianism, due to its Parthian (Persian) origin.

[5thGenTexan]

I thought it was what the Dwarfs made Bilbo's (later Frodo's) chain mail vest out of.

:-)

[donmeaker]

There was a Soroasterian element. The worshipers would make a throne for the G-d and set it for fire, so none could sit there but the G-d, even G-d the Father.

What happened is the stars moved. G-d the Father created the solstice in the consellation of Taurus. Moving the Heavens required a new dispensation, and Mithras was the name for the G-d which moved the heavens, so that the winter solstice moved from Taurus. Thus Mithras slayed the Bull.

Christianity adopted this all-powerful figure as Jesus...Even giving Jesus the Birthday of Mithras (just after the Saturnalia), with his new dispensation in harmony with the old as a favored son would be in harmony with the father.

Mithraeums had starry displays, to explain this to the acolytes.