Final answer:
The Shepherd of Hermas focuses on Christian morals rather than specifically on baptism, but the rite of baptism is significant as a symbol of rebirth in early Christianity. The term 'illumination' used by early Christians mirrors the transformative nature of baptism, and the term 'symbolon' evolved to denote the Creed, paralleling pagan practices while marking a distinctive Christian tradition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary concern of The Shepherd of Hermas is not directly related to the method of baptism but rather to Christian conduct and visions for spiritual instruction. However, baptism is an underlying theme as it signifies the purification and rebirth into the Christian faith, much like the imagery seen on the Santa Maria Antiqua Sarcophagus and the representation of Christ's baptism. Early Christian authors like Justin Martyr and Clement of Alexandria used terms such as phôtisma, meaning 'illumination', to describe baptism as a transformative, enlightening experience akin to the climax of a mystery rite, albeit with critical differences. Moreover, the term symbolon (symbol), initially associated with a baptismal password, evolved in meaning and was later known as the term for the Creed, showing a linguistic parallel to terms used within the Orphic-Bacchic Mysteries yet presenting distinctions in the context of Christian practice.
Baptism in early Christianity was essential for redeeming from original sin and would often take place shortly after birth due to high infant mortality rates. It was a sacrament with deep spiritual significance, different from both Jewish purificatory practices and pagan Mystery rites, despite some attempts to draw parallels. Evolving connotations of ritual terminology over time highlight baptism's unique and central role within the nascent Christian community as a rite of incorporation and a crucial step in the process towards salvation.