What is Paganism?

[Gentle Deer Lion Tamer]

Defining Paganism
The definition of Pagan is as illusive as it is controversial. By some
standards, pagan is simply any religion other than Christian, Muslim
or Jewish. It is safe to say that this definition does not justify the
unified culture that encapsulates pagan events and gatherings.

Others refer to pagans as polytheists; that also is not true of all
pagans.

According to some sources, and the definition used by the Pagan and
Earth -Based Spirituality Organization, paganism "refers to the
worship of deities [and] the use of surviving symbols and practices of
ancient religions." This definition seems to me to be most descriptive
of what I have witnessed in pagan circles. For a very thorough
analysis of the various definitions, try religioustolerance.org/
paganism.htm.

Is Paganism the same as Wicca?

Wiccans are pagans, but not all Pagans are Wiccans. Paganism can be
thought of as an umbrella term which encapsulates many traditions such
as Wicca, Druidism, Ancient Native American beliefs, and some might
even include Buddhism and Hinduism. Wicca is a specific religion which
is acknowledged as an official religion by the United States
government. It has its own doctrines which include "Do what ye will,
but harm none", and the belief that all deeds, good or evil, return to
you in three-fold. While these beliefs are not across the board for
Pagans, many modern pagans have similar doctrines.

How and what do Pagans worship?

Pagans have a wide array of visions of the divine. Most recognize a
balance between a feminine divinity and a masculine divinity. This is
witnessed in such concepts as the Taoist Yin and Yang, the ancient
earth mother and sky father, the many gods and goddesses, and even in
the Hebrew Adam and Eve. Often it is seen that there is a place in
which this masculine and feminine energy come together in unity and
this is the ultimate source of power. Some pagans do not name their
idea of divinity and merely refer to it as "The Divine", "Great
Mother/ Great Father" or "Limitless Light". Others break their idea of
divinity into specific attributes which are assigned to the various
gods and goddesses. Some even have "patron deities", or deities in
which they feel most empowered by or drawn to. Pagan worship is just
as varied as any other religion in terms of worship. Prayer, ritual,
fasting, meditation, drumming, singing, and dancing are often used to
connect with the divine. Just as any religion, some pagans are very
strict and rigid in their worship, while others are very lax.

Do Pagans sacrifice things in ritual?

Usually when one thinks of ritual sacrifice, they think about an
animal (or small child!).( I, personally do NOT endorse or approve of
such things, I am merely stating what is a commonly believed idea ).
In reality, ritual sacrifice is usually much less dramatic. During
ceremony, wine or milk is often poured on the ground, as well as bread
being broken, as a offering to the goddess or to show appreciation for
the harvest. Often, unproductive or bad habits are sacrificed to clear
a path for new growth. There are still some groups that perform animal
sacrifices during ritual, in which case the animal is blessed,
sacrificed, and the eaten after ritual ( a far more humane and
respectful way to kill an animal for food than the more common
"slaughter-house method"). This practice is still relatively rare in
modern pagan practice. Most Pagans tend to be very animal, plant and
Earth friendly and some even refuse to eat meat at all.

How does one become Pagan?

One becomes pagan by learning a path which is considered pagan then
developing a connection and love for it. You may be able to find local
events in your area that draw a large Pagan crowd to develop a network
of peers. I find that this is most rewarding and that being active in
the Pagan community constantly reaffirms why you are so connected with
your chosen path.

Where can I find a Pagan group?

Some areas are blessed with a strong pagan presence, while other area
may require a bit of searching. Military areas tend to be good for the
pagan presence as it draws people from all backgrounds and creates a
"melting pot" effect. Look in the phone book for occult or magick
supplies. Some times these stores have connections to local groups or
may even host events themselves. You could always try the national
pagan directory and information site at www.witchvox.com.