Thracian · deity · Thraco Phrygian, attested from 5th c. BCE; widespread under Rome to 3rd c. CE · deity
Thraco-Phrygian sky-father/horseman. Native name transmitted in Greek (Σαβάζιος) and Latin (Sabazius). Classified 'deity'. Bassareus and Sabos are related Thracian names linking him to the Thracian Dionysus; the 'Hand of Sabazios' is his signature material attestation. Some sources locate his origins in Thrace/Macedonia, others stress the Phrygian dimension; both threads belong to this Thracian-rooted god.
Domains
sky and heavens
wine and ecstasy
Powers
rides forth as the mounted sky-god
initiates devotees by drawing a serpent through the bosom