Orphism

Orphism (Ancient Greek: Ὀρφικά) is a religion originating in the ancient Greek associated with literature ascribed to the mythical poet Orpheus, who descended into Hades and returned. Orpheus was said to have invented the Mysteries of Dionysus, which were designed to learn and become familiar with the afterlife. Classical sources, such as Plato, refer to "Orpheus-initiators" (Ὀρφεοτελεσταί), and associated rites.

Orphism believed that human souls were divine and immortal, but was caught in a "grievous circle" of metempsychosis (reincarnation). It prescribed an ascetic way of life that included vegetarianism. Participation in the secret initiation rites, was supposed to guarantee not only eventual release from the "grievous circle" but also communion with gods.