As a meeting ground of numerous beliefs, faiths and philosophies, eastern lands were often, but not always, tolerant of diversity. With many of the ruling elite Hellenistic in origin, it was common practice to mix both Greek and local customs in religious observances. Rather than enforcing their own view, rulers commonly allowed their people and any immigrant settlers to continue their own religious practices. Other empires, such as Parthia, were diverse collections of many kingdoms, each with their own beliefs, encompassing everything from Zoroastrianism to imperial cults of personality. As long as religion didn't cause disloyalty or late payment of taxes, all was well!
