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As Emperor, Claudius held the position of Pontifex Maximus and had a very important role in Roman state Religion. He was concerned with the growing influence of eastern religions in the capital of the Empire and . In response, he expelled astrologers and tried to reinvigorate the ancient Roman practice of soothsaying. In many ways he saw himself as continuing Augustus efforts to restore the old Roman religion .<ref> Osgood, p. 178</ref>.  Claudius forbade any conversions or proselytizing , but he did allow freedom of worship in most cases. He did actively suppressed suppress druidism, the ancient religion of the Celts because of the druids role in were central to resisting Roman rule in Britannia and Gaul. Claudius apparently had an ambivalent relationship with the Jews, he recognized their rights’, but he also expelled them from Rome, according to some sources .<ref> Osgood, p 167</ref>. In general, Claudius attempted to ensure that religion was a unifying force in the Empire and , but he was intolerant of any faith that threatened public order.