10-28-2009, 11:29 AM
I don't know if this terms was ever used by romans. The only fact is that in the academic world, speaking of roman times, "oriental" or "eastern" identify what is located in such regions (from Egypt to Romania). It is probably a standard used by scholars.
As example the christian religion is considered an "oriental" religion because it has its origins in Judaea. The same for the Isis cult native from Egypt. Etc. etc.
As example the christian religion is considered an "oriental" religion because it has its origins in Judaea. The same for the Isis cult native from Egypt. Etc. etc.