Religion as a Part of Government. Religion is communal, ceremonial, and conservative. In practical terms this means that a community will authorize certain individuals, priests, to maintain its religious customs. In some societies the priests form a special caste, dedicated exclusively to religious affairs. With a few notable exceptions, this structure was not the case at Rome, where religion was an integral part of government. Their priests were at the same time active in politics and military service. For the Romans, it was proof of their veneration for their gods that they had as priests persons who were competent in all areas of public life. This practice meant that known individuals were accountable for correctly tending the gods of the people and for conducting public business with divine favor. It was also a great honor to belong to a priesthood. Originally, new priests...