[5] Little is known on the origins of Balbillus; he was a direct descendant of the king Antiochus I Theos of Commagene[1] and a relation of the Roman empress Julia Domna[6] and her family.
[7] Balbillus is known from inscriptions as priest of Elagabalus in Rome during the reigns of Septimius Severus and Caracalla,[2] which are dated before 218.
[8] The temple based in Rome devoted to ancient Syrian deities, including Elagabalus was located in Trastevere.
[8] From inscriptions at the temple reveals, that Balbillus enjoyed imperial favour and established good cordial relations with the Vestal Virgins.
[12] He probably catered the ritual needs connected with the cult of Elagabalus for Septimius Severus and Caracalla, which may have arisen among the Emesene members of the Severan household.