Final answer:
The word 'obeisance' in the given context means 'respect' as it implies a gesture of reverence made in a religious setting, such as bowing in a temple. Additionally, an important feature of Roman mystery cults was the hierarchical structure of initiation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct definition of the word 'obeisance' in the sentence provided is A) Respect. When someone is offering obeisance, they are showing a gesture of respect. The term can include actions such as bowing or kneeling, which are signs of reverence and honor towards someone often considered superior or divine. In the context of the sentence, as it is taking place in a temple and people are bowing to their god, it suggests a display of respect rather than just worship, prayer, or devotion alone. While all the options are closely related, 'respect' is the broadest term that includes aspects of worship, prayer, and devotion.
Regarding Roman religious practices and the mystery cults, an important feature of Roman mystery cults is c. hierarchical structure of initiation. This means that there was an order or sequence of stages through which an individual had to progress to gain deeper knowledge and participation in the cult's practices and secrets.