I want to know what you think, is this good information or not.
So, I ran across this in a discussion on another site. I read the article, and I think that some of this information is ok, while, some of it is definately not.
I was asked which points did I not agree with, and, as of yet, I have not been responded to again, so, I'm curious what the members of Mystics will say. What do you think of the information presented in this article?
Is it good information? Is it not good information? Is it misleading? What would you have done differently?
-------------------------------------------------------
Paganism is the oldest religion known to humanity. It's origins are obscure, but conjectured to have arisen with humanity's desire to explore the unknown, and seek unity with the divine force (however that may be perceived). Therefore, Paganism has no founder or founders, no earthly leaders, no prophets, no messiahs, and no saints.
The word Pagan is derived from the Latin Paganus, "a civilian", and from Pagus, "a village". This delineates Pagans as those who are from a village, or more commonly, simply country-dwellers. Whilst the majority of Pagans today - like the majority of the population - live in towns, this term accurately describes the Pagan heritage, and the affinity which modern Pagans feel with the natural environment.
Thus modern Pagans follow a religion which is as old as humanity itself, but whose practices have been adapted to suit life in the modern world. The concepts which were vital to sustaining life in bygone times are revered, and their principles have been retained; however, we acknowledge that our modern lifestyles are sustained in very different ways.
WHO ARE MODERN PAGANS?
Modern Pagans are people who have made a positive choice to follow a path of individual spiritual growth that is in harmony with the Earth upon which we live. Many people have become aware of a spiritual void in their lives, and have discovered, in Paganism, a religion of joy and love, which allows self-expression, but also encourages social and environmental responsibility.
Modern Pagans are men and women of all ages, drawn from all walks of life, and from vaious racial or cultural backgrounds. Members of the Pagan Alliance include scientists, solicitors, students, health care professionals, teachers, farmers, information technology specialists, industrial relation specialists, graphic designers, engineers, members of the Defence Force, Project Managers, members of the Public Service, Librarians, psychologists, artists, and research assistants, to name but a few.
The one thing they all have in common is a desire to follow a spiritual path which is in harmony with the Earth, and which encourages self-discovery, and individual responsibility.
PAGAN TRADITIONS
There are numerous traditions under the generic classification of Paganism.
Click Here for more information on Pagan Traditions.
PAGAN BELIEFS
The spiritual or religious beliefs of Pagans are that deity is both imminent and transcendent. Deity is therefore a part of the fabric of our being, of our environment, and of that which is beyond anything we can imagine.
Deity is perceived as both male and female. God is seen in many ways, and expressed in our worship as the male principle; all of the male Pagan deities are accepted as aspects of God. Goddess is seen in many ways, and expresses the female principle. All of the female Pagan deities are accepted as aspects of Goddess.
Pagans do not believe in a dualistic viewpoint of absolute opposites; of "good versus evil". Pagans believe that all things exist in their own place, and that we should strive for dynamic balance and harmony. Extremism of any form does not have a place within the Pagan philosophy.
Most Pagans believe in reincarnation. There is a strong affinity with the idea of cyclical life patterns, which do not cease with the death of the physical body. Most Pagans have no concept which could be described as heaven or hell in the commonly-used Christian sense. However, Northern Pagan traditions encompass both a heaven and a hell, with a sophisticated philosophy which describes the operation of these realms. Briefly, Heaven (Asgard) is a final resting place, and Hell (Hel) is a place of rest, from where souls may choose to be re-born. In the Northern Traditions, Hel is not a place of damnation and torture.
The Wiccan religion has what is called "The Summerlands"; a place where souls find rest before being re-born into the physical world.
The Druid belief in reincarnation is confirmed many times in classical sources; e.g. Posidonius (quoteed by Diodorus): "... [Druids believe that] the souls of men are immortal, and that after a definite number of years they live a seconed life when the soul passes to another body."
Julius Caesar: "The cardinal doctrine which they seek to teach is that souls do not die, but after death pass from one to another; and this belief, as the fear of death is thereby cast aside, they hold to be the greatest invective to valour."
Each Pagan religion has its own philosophy about the afterlife, and about reincarnation. Individual Pagans may also have their own philosophy about these subjects, for the Pagan religions do not have a dogma, or strict set of teachings, which all Pagans must folow.
Paganism is one of the so-called "Mystery Paths", where each individual has direct experience of divinity. Although it is becoming more common for Pagan Priests and Priestesses to administer rites to a group of people, individual experience of divinity remains the primary objective for most practising Pagans.
This differs significantly from most State religions, where a figure of authority performs rites, and mediates the divine force, on behalf of a congregation. In most Pagan religions, each individual is a Priest or Priestess in his or her own right.
Pagans do not "worship" trees or rocks; however, they do revere the divine force which is contained within trees and rocks; indeed, is contained within every part of the universe.
Pagans do not worship a savious, or other spiritual leader. The emphasis is upon each individual's spiritual enlightenment, and responsibility for this is not abdicated to another person. The practice of Paganism is a voyage of self-discovery, and the discovery of one's own place within the divine realm.
Paganism is not, therefore, a cult, for a cult has a leader, and Paganism has none. Individual groups will often be led by one or two people who are experienced in the practice of the religion, but such people have no influence outside of their own group or tradition.
RELIGIOUS PRACTICES: WORSHIP
Pagans believe that each individual has the right to worship in their own way; there is no legislation that requires Pagans to follow any prescribed manner of worship. Some Pagans worship in a formal manner; have a more instinctive and unconscious mode of acknowledging and communicating with Goddess and God. Some Pagans prefer to make their worship a private affair; others gather in groups and make their worship a communion with each other, as well as with Goddess and God.
Like most religions, Paganism has Rites of Passage, with some traditions having a formal set of rituals for birth, marriage and death. Those Pagan religions which adhere most closely to the "Mystery Path" will also have rites of initiation. These are designed to effect a spiritual awakening within the initiate, and do not include such practices as animal or human sacrifice, nor any activity which is against the wishes or ethics of the initiate.
Rituals to celebrate a birth, which often include a naming ceremony, do not promise the child to the religion, in the way of a Christian baptism. The parents of the child will often adk for divine guidance and protection for their child, but will not make any promises about bringing the child up in a particular faith.
It is a strong Pagan belief that each individual must follow his or her own path. Children are taught to honour their family and friends; to have integrity, honesty and loyalty; to treat the Earth as sacred, and to love and respect all forms of life. Other than these basic teachings, children are encouraged to question, and to find their own spiritual path. Many Pagan parents will ensure that their children are exposed to the teachings of a number of religions, so that the child receives a well-balanced spiritual education.
RELIGIOUS PRACTICES: HOLY DAYS
To Pagans, every day is a holy day, but there are a number of Festival celebrations which are held throughout the year. The Festivals, and the time on which they are celebrated, varies. Within each tradition, there are commonalities, but these are by no means definitive across the whole religion.
Perhaps the best known is the cycle of Festivals celebrated by many Pagans, including the Wiccan tradition, and modern Druids. There are eight Festivals, being Samhain, Giuli (Yule), Imbolg (also known as Candlemas), Spring Equinox (also known as Eostre), Beltane, Litha (Midsummer), and the Autumn Equinox (also known as Mabon).
These Festivals are derived from variously, Celtic and Saxon sources, and their essence has remained in modern society through folk memory, and in many rural traditions.
Other Pagan traditions celebrate the turning of the seasons with four Festivals to mark Spring, Summer, Autumn and Spring. As always with Paganism, the emphasis is upon what is meaningful for each individual, rather than a strict adherence to a rigid doctrine.
PAGANISM IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND
The history of Paganism in Australia and New Zealand is lengthy, for the indigenous people were Pagan, before the arrival of colonisation and its attendant Christian Missionaries. The conversion of the native people to Christianity was uncompromising.
The earliest incidence of revived European Paganism in Australia and New Zealand is unknown, but there are reports of witches meeting in Canberra, ACT during the 1920s. Many immigrants brought their own traditions and practices with them, and since the 1970s numerous books have been published about the revived Pagan religions and their practices.
Although laws against "the pretence of the practice of witchcraft" remain on the statute books in a few places, the modern Pagan in Australia and New Zealand can practise his or her religion without fear. Pagans remain the target of mainstream fundamentalist fanatics, but thankfully, fewer and fewer rational people are taking fundamentalist absurdities seriously. However, for this reason, and because bigotry still exists in many places, some Pagans practice their religion privately, and prefer not to make their beliefs public.
Some Pagans are prepared to be public spokespeople for their religion, and through the Pan Pacific Pagan Alliance, and other similar organisations have provided accurate and sensible information to the media, police forces, local government organisations, child care agencies, health centres and so on. That we have been so successful in our attempt to inform society of the truth of our religion is a testament to those Pagans who live and work in Australia and New Zealand.
PAGAN CUSTOMS
Because Paganism stresses the importance of individuality, there are few, if any, widespread customs. A sense of the sanctity of the natural world, concern for the environment, and acceptance that we are socially responsible to our fellow-creatures, dictates the kind of customs which most Pagans follow.
There are no dietary requirements, or any prohibitions within the Pagan philosophy. Those who follow a vegan/vegetarian diet, or who abstain from alcohol, tobacco, etc., do so out of choice, not tenets of faith.
There are no laws of blasphemy and conflict between individuals remains the responsiblity and concern of those who are involved. There are no penances, or any other form of religious punishments.
Paganism does not legislate where matters of morality and ethics are concerned. It is up to each individual to be responsible for their own viewpoints and decisions. The religion itself does not promote nor condemn practices related to sexual activity, procreation, use of alcohol and other mind altering substances. Individual Pagans may hold viewpoints on one or more of these issues, however, they are PERSONAL viewpoints, and not the considered opinion of the religion per se.
Pagans have a high regard for the equality of the sexes and do not suppress the feminine principle in the way that many other religions seem to do. Pagan Priestesses have the same status as Priests; in some traditions, they have primacy in leading the religious practices.
Many Pagans acknowledge the concept of "Elders"; those from the community who, by virtue of their training or experience, have a greater understanding of social, moral and practical matters. Pagans who gather together (either formally or informally) as a group, will often look to those who lead the group for guidance on moral issues and socially accepted behaviour. However, it is a fundamental aspect of Paganism that each individual must accept full responsibility for their own actions. There is no "confession" or other absolution to devolve responsibility to another person, or to God and/or Goddess.
FALLACIES
Pagans are not concerned with perverting the sacred symbols, beliefs or practices of any other religion.
Pagans do not perform sacrifices (other than of their own energy and time), and are not opposed to any other religious beliefs.
Pagans do not sexually abuse children; quite the contrary. Despite many hysterical claims of sexual abuse by witches and other occultists, none has ever been proven to be true.
For a Pagan to abuse a child is total anathema. It is contrary to everything that we hold close to our hearts. Our children are our future, and a part of the ultimate divine source. Pagan children are born in love and unity; they are sacred, and are treated as such.
CONCLUSION.
Paganism is a legitimate, coherent and responsible spiritual path to which many people are attracted in these days of ecological concern. To be a Pagan in the 20th (and 21st) century is to hold and believe in the sacredness of all things; to revere and respect all life; and to love and honour one's family and friends.
http://www.witchesway.net/links/paganism/beliefs.html
I was asked which points did I not agree with, and, as of yet, I have not been responded to again, so, I'm curious what the members of Mystics will say. What do you think of the information presented in this article?
Is it good information? Is it not good information? Is it misleading? What would you have done differently?
-------------------------------------------------------
Paganism is the oldest religion known to humanity. It's origins are obscure, but conjectured to have arisen with humanity's desire to explore the unknown, and seek unity with the divine force (however that may be perceived). Therefore, Paganism has no founder or founders, no earthly leaders, no prophets, no messiahs, and no saints.
The word Pagan is derived from the Latin Paganus, "a civilian", and from Pagus, "a village". This delineates Pagans as those who are from a village, or more commonly, simply country-dwellers. Whilst the majority of Pagans today - like the majority of the population - live in towns, this term accurately describes the Pagan heritage, and the affinity which modern Pagans feel with the natural environment.
Thus modern Pagans follow a religion which is as old as humanity itself, but whose practices have been adapted to suit life in the modern world. The concepts which were vital to sustaining life in bygone times are revered, and their principles have been retained; however, we acknowledge that our modern lifestyles are sustained in very different ways.
WHO ARE MODERN PAGANS?
Modern Pagans are people who have made a positive choice to follow a path of individual spiritual growth that is in harmony with the Earth upon which we live. Many people have become aware of a spiritual void in their lives, and have discovered, in Paganism, a religion of joy and love, which allows self-expression, but also encourages social and environmental responsibility.
Modern Pagans are men and women of all ages, drawn from all walks of life, and from vaious racial or cultural backgrounds. Members of the Pagan Alliance include scientists, solicitors, students, health care professionals, teachers, farmers, information technology specialists, industrial relation specialists, graphic designers, engineers, members of the Defence Force, Project Managers, members of the Public Service, Librarians, psychologists, artists, and research assistants, to name but a few.
The one thing they all have in common is a desire to follow a spiritual path which is in harmony with the Earth, and which encourages self-discovery, and individual responsibility.
PAGAN TRADITIONS
There are numerous traditions under the generic classification of Paganism.
Click Here for more information on Pagan Traditions.
PAGAN BELIEFS
The spiritual or religious beliefs of Pagans are that deity is both imminent and transcendent. Deity is therefore a part of the fabric of our being, of our environment, and of that which is beyond anything we can imagine.
Deity is perceived as both male and female. God is seen in many ways, and expressed in our worship as the male principle; all of the male Pagan deities are accepted as aspects of God. Goddess is seen in many ways, and expresses the female principle. All of the female Pagan deities are accepted as aspects of Goddess.
Pagans do not believe in a dualistic viewpoint of absolute opposites; of "good versus evil". Pagans believe that all things exist in their own place, and that we should strive for dynamic balance and harmony. Extremism of any form does not have a place within the Pagan philosophy.
Most Pagans believe in reincarnation. There is a strong affinity with the idea of cyclical life patterns, which do not cease with the death of the physical body. Most Pagans have no concept which could be described as heaven or hell in the commonly-used Christian sense. However, Northern Pagan traditions encompass both a heaven and a hell, with a sophisticated philosophy which describes the operation of these realms. Briefly, Heaven (Asgard) is a final resting place, and Hell (Hel) is a place of rest, from where souls may choose to be re-born. In the Northern Traditions, Hel is not a place of damnation and torture.
The Wiccan religion has what is called "The Summerlands"; a place where souls find rest before being re-born into the physical world.
The Druid belief in reincarnation is confirmed many times in classical sources; e.g. Posidonius (quoteed by Diodorus): "... [Druids believe that] the souls of men are immortal, and that after a definite number of years they live a seconed life when the soul passes to another body."
Julius Caesar: "The cardinal doctrine which they seek to teach is that souls do not die, but after death pass from one to another; and this belief, as the fear of death is thereby cast aside, they hold to be the greatest invective to valour."
Each Pagan religion has its own philosophy about the afterlife, and about reincarnation. Individual Pagans may also have their own philosophy about these subjects, for the Pagan religions do not have a dogma, or strict set of teachings, which all Pagans must folow.
Paganism is one of the so-called "Mystery Paths", where each individual has direct experience of divinity. Although it is becoming more common for Pagan Priests and Priestesses to administer rites to a group of people, individual experience of divinity remains the primary objective for most practising Pagans.
This differs significantly from most State religions, where a figure of authority performs rites, and mediates the divine force, on behalf of a congregation. In most Pagan religions, each individual is a Priest or Priestess in his or her own right.
Pagans do not "worship" trees or rocks; however, they do revere the divine force which is contained within trees and rocks; indeed, is contained within every part of the universe.
Pagans do not worship a savious, or other spiritual leader. The emphasis is upon each individual's spiritual enlightenment, and responsibility for this is not abdicated to another person. The practice of Paganism is a voyage of self-discovery, and the discovery of one's own place within the divine realm.
Paganism is not, therefore, a cult, for a cult has a leader, and Paganism has none. Individual groups will often be led by one or two people who are experienced in the practice of the religion, but such people have no influence outside of their own group or tradition.
RELIGIOUS PRACTICES: WORSHIP
Pagans believe that each individual has the right to worship in their own way; there is no legislation that requires Pagans to follow any prescribed manner of worship. Some Pagans worship in a formal manner; have a more instinctive and unconscious mode of acknowledging and communicating with Goddess and God. Some Pagans prefer to make their worship a private affair; others gather in groups and make their worship a communion with each other, as well as with Goddess and God.
Like most religions, Paganism has Rites of Passage, with some traditions having a formal set of rituals for birth, marriage and death. Those Pagan religions which adhere most closely to the "Mystery Path" will also have rites of initiation. These are designed to effect a spiritual awakening within the initiate, and do not include such practices as animal or human sacrifice, nor any activity which is against the wishes or ethics of the initiate.
Rituals to celebrate a birth, which often include a naming ceremony, do not promise the child to the religion, in the way of a Christian baptism. The parents of the child will often adk for divine guidance and protection for their child, but will not make any promises about bringing the child up in a particular faith.
It is a strong Pagan belief that each individual must follow his or her own path. Children are taught to honour their family and friends; to have integrity, honesty and loyalty; to treat the Earth as sacred, and to love and respect all forms of life. Other than these basic teachings, children are encouraged to question, and to find their own spiritual path. Many Pagan parents will ensure that their children are exposed to the teachings of a number of religions, so that the child receives a well-balanced spiritual education.
RELIGIOUS PRACTICES: HOLY DAYS
To Pagans, every day is a holy day, but there are a number of Festival celebrations which are held throughout the year. The Festivals, and the time on which they are celebrated, varies. Within each tradition, there are commonalities, but these are by no means definitive across the whole religion.
Perhaps the best known is the cycle of Festivals celebrated by many Pagans, including the Wiccan tradition, and modern Druids. There are eight Festivals, being Samhain, Giuli (Yule), Imbolg (also known as Candlemas), Spring Equinox (also known as Eostre), Beltane, Litha (Midsummer), and the Autumn Equinox (also known as Mabon).
These Festivals are derived from variously, Celtic and Saxon sources, and their essence has remained in modern society through folk memory, and in many rural traditions.
Other Pagan traditions celebrate the turning of the seasons with four Festivals to mark Spring, Summer, Autumn and Spring. As always with Paganism, the emphasis is upon what is meaningful for each individual, rather than a strict adherence to a rigid doctrine.
PAGANISM IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND
The history of Paganism in Australia and New Zealand is lengthy, for the indigenous people were Pagan, before the arrival of colonisation and its attendant Christian Missionaries. The conversion of the native people to Christianity was uncompromising.
The earliest incidence of revived European Paganism in Australia and New Zealand is unknown, but there are reports of witches meeting in Canberra, ACT during the 1920s. Many immigrants brought their own traditions and practices with them, and since the 1970s numerous books have been published about the revived Pagan religions and their practices.
Although laws against "the pretence of the practice of witchcraft" remain on the statute books in a few places, the modern Pagan in Australia and New Zealand can practise his or her religion without fear. Pagans remain the target of mainstream fundamentalist fanatics, but thankfully, fewer and fewer rational people are taking fundamentalist absurdities seriously. However, for this reason, and because bigotry still exists in many places, some Pagans practice their religion privately, and prefer not to make their beliefs public.
Some Pagans are prepared to be public spokespeople for their religion, and through the Pan Pacific Pagan Alliance, and other similar organisations have provided accurate and sensible information to the media, police forces, local government organisations, child care agencies, health centres and so on. That we have been so successful in our attempt to inform society of the truth of our religion is a testament to those Pagans who live and work in Australia and New Zealand.
PAGAN CUSTOMS
Because Paganism stresses the importance of individuality, there are few, if any, widespread customs. A sense of the sanctity of the natural world, concern for the environment, and acceptance that we are socially responsible to our fellow-creatures, dictates the kind of customs which most Pagans follow.
There are no dietary requirements, or any prohibitions within the Pagan philosophy. Those who follow a vegan/vegetarian diet, or who abstain from alcohol, tobacco, etc., do so out of choice, not tenets of faith.
There are no laws of blasphemy and conflict between individuals remains the responsiblity and concern of those who are involved. There are no penances, or any other form of religious punishments.
Paganism does not legislate where matters of morality and ethics are concerned. It is up to each individual to be responsible for their own viewpoints and decisions. The religion itself does not promote nor condemn practices related to sexual activity, procreation, use of alcohol and other mind altering substances. Individual Pagans may hold viewpoints on one or more of these issues, however, they are PERSONAL viewpoints, and not the considered opinion of the religion per se.
Pagans have a high regard for the equality of the sexes and do not suppress the feminine principle in the way that many other religions seem to do. Pagan Priestesses have the same status as Priests; in some traditions, they have primacy in leading the religious practices.
Many Pagans acknowledge the concept of "Elders"; those from the community who, by virtue of their training or experience, have a greater understanding of social, moral and practical matters. Pagans who gather together (either formally or informally) as a group, will often look to those who lead the group for guidance on moral issues and socially accepted behaviour. However, it is a fundamental aspect of Paganism that each individual must accept full responsibility for their own actions. There is no "confession" or other absolution to devolve responsibility to another person, or to God and/or Goddess.
FALLACIES
Pagans are not concerned with perverting the sacred symbols, beliefs or practices of any other religion.
Pagans do not perform sacrifices (other than of their own energy and time), and are not opposed to any other religious beliefs.
Pagans do not sexually abuse children; quite the contrary. Despite many hysterical claims of sexual abuse by witches and other occultists, none has ever been proven to be true.
For a Pagan to abuse a child is total anathema. It is contrary to everything that we hold close to our hearts. Our children are our future, and a part of the ultimate divine source. Pagan children are born in love and unity; they are sacred, and are treated as such.
CONCLUSION.
Paganism is a legitimate, coherent and responsible spiritual path to which many people are attracted in these days of ecological concern. To be a Pagan in the 20th (and 21st) century is to hold and believe in the sacredness of all things; to revere and respect all life; and to love and honour one's family and friends.
http://www.witchesway.net/links/paganism/beliefs.html
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by tealasilverre on -
I must agree most of this follows my own beliefs. There are a few small differences, and Historically it is hard to make an 'exact' time when 'Paganism' in general started; the writer got most of this basically correct. At least as far as I have been able to ferret out. I think this piece states most of the shared beliefs in a factual non-combative way.
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Permalink Reply by sapphire73 on -
I think that this is mostly true of what I know and believe of Paganisim, maybe a few small things are not totally true, but on the whole I think it is put quite well.
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Permalink Reply by ShaamAnsu on -
I'm sure it was written by someone who fervently beliefs their facts are accurate...however some are very misleading. Paganism is simply an umbrella term that covers many, many diverse belief systems/paths/religions.
Pagan itself is not an old word...in the sense that it is ancient from day 1 in history. The name Pagan was given to all those who did not believe as the Christian Church (Roman Catholic) did. Pagan is a derogatory term...meaning common folk, (country bumpkin)....etc. Mainly, those that still believed their folk religions.
(quote)Thus modern Pagans follow a religion which is as old as humanity itself, but whose practices have been adapted to suit life in the modern world.(quote)
"Pagans follow a religion" This is not a factual statement, since it suggests that all Pagans follow a singular religion. Once again, Pagan..just describes many different belief systems that fall outside of the Christian concept.
(quote)Many people have become aware of a spiritual void in their lives, and have discovered, in Paganism, a religion of joy and love, which allows self-expression, but also encourages social and environmental responsibility(quote)
This is true in part....although this is descriptive of organized religions too from Abrahamic, Buddhist....etc......
Many of the belief systems under Pagan umbrella also find these things important, especially those belief systems that are earth based.
It is also true that those of us who follow belief systems under the Pagan umbrella do come from all walks of life, and have careers in every field imaginable.
(quote) The one thing they all have in common is a desire to follow a spiritual path which is in harmony with the Earth, and which encourages self-discovery, and individual responsibility.(quote)
This is true of all religions and belief systems who follow this premise, whether pagan related or not.
(quote)The spiritual or religious beliefs of Pagans are that deity is both imminent and transcendent. Deity is therefore a part of the fabric of our being, of our environment, and of that which is beyond anything we can imagine.
Deity is perceived as both male and female. God is seen in many ways, and expressed in our worship as the male principle; all of the male Pagan deities are accepted as aspects of God. Goddess is seen in many ways, and expresses the female principle. All of the female Pagan deities are accepted as aspects of Goddess.(quote)
Now we begin to see an assumption on the part of the author that all "Pagans" have a deity based belief system, whether polytheist or pantheist. Now, we all know that many belief systems are not based on a God/Goddess principle.
(quote)Pagans do not believe in a dualistic viewpoint of absolute opposites; of "good versus evil". Pagans believe that all things exist in their own place, and that we should strive for dynamic balance and harmony. Extremism of any form does not have a place within the Pagan philosophy.(quote)
A good many belief systems under the Pagan umbrella do believe in "duality". How else could you work to achieve a balance between the two. Actually, the author kind of contradicted him/herself in this paragraph.
(quote)Rituals to celebrate a birth, which often include a naming ceremony, do not promise the child to the religion, in the way of a Christian baptism. The parents of the child will often adk for divine guidance and protection for their child, but will not make any promises about bringing the child up in a particular faith.(quote)
"Rituals" are done in any religion, whether those belief systems which fall under the Pagan umbrella, or others, and Christian religions as well. Even in some fundamental Christian religions...babies are simply dedicated as infants, when their names are spoken....not all go thru a formal Baptism ceremony.
(quote)
To Pagans, every day is a holy day, but there are a number of Festival celebrations which are held throughout the year. The Festivals, and the time on which they are celebrated, varies. Within each tradition, there are commonalities, but these are by no means definitive across the whole religion.(quote)
Well, this is a practice that is also honored in various ways by any religion, pagan related, Abrahamic, Christian, Buddhist...etc...etc... .
Not every belief system under the pagan umbrella has the God/Goddess type belief, and not all have Priests or Priestesses. However most did/do have a person in authority who officiated over many ceremonial type things.
(quote)Like most religions, Paganism has Rites of Passage, with some traditions having a formal set of rituals for birth, marriage and death. Those Pagan religions which adhere most closely to the "Mystery Path" will also have rites of initiation. These are designed to effect a spiritual awakening within the initiate, and do not include such practices as animal or human sacrifice, nor any activity which is against the wishes or ethics of the initiate.(quote)
Again, "Rites of Passage" are found in every belief system on earth, pagan related, Christian, Abrahamic...and otherwise. Each belief system has their own variation of this. Christians begin with dedication/baptism...confirmation or other similiar ceremony/ritual where the person willingly dedicates him/herself to the beliefs of that particular system. Indigenous peoples...ancient and today have their own variation of 'rites of passage', as well.
(quote)Most Pagans believe in reincarnation. There is a strong affinity with the idea of cyclical life patterns, which do not cease with the death of the physical body. Most Pagans have no concept which could be described as heaven or hell in the commonly-used Christian sense. However, Northern Pagan traditions encompass both a heaven and a hell, with a sophisticated philosophy which describes the operation of these realms. Briefly, Heaven (Asgard) is a final resting place, and Hell (Hel) is a place of rest, from where souls may choose to be re-born. In the Northern Traditions, Hel is not a place of damnation and torture.(quote)
Some belief systems falling under the pagan umbrella do have an affinity of cyclical life patterns. Most uninformed people today, naturally assume that every religion believes in Heaven/Hell concept, which is a Christian conceptulization...and is a common mistake..since, society has taught us this ever since the beginning of Christianity. Some Christian belief systems believe in Purgatory too...which is between Heaven and Hell. Purgatory is a place where souls are taught to accept the Christian concepts. After the souls accept the concepts...they go to Heaven...if they don't accept them...then it's a one way trip to basement level (Hell).
The statement of "most pagans believe in reincarnation" is not quite factual, as we know.
(quote)
(quote)
Paganism is one of the so-called "Mystery Paths", where each individual has direct experience of divinity. Although it is becoming more common for Pagan Priests and Priestesses to administer rites to a group of people, individual experience of divinity remains the primary objective for most practising Pagans.
This differs significantly from most State religions, where a figure of authority performs rites, and mediates the divine force, on behalf of a congregation. In most Pagan religions, each individual is a Priest or Priestess in his or her own right.(quote)
The author goes from using Paganism as if it is a singular religion to talking about 'pagan religions' (plural).
Also, not every belief system under the Pagan umbrella is a "Mystery Religion"...this term is a neo/new age concept...for belief systems such as Wicca and some of the initiatory witchcraft systems..that were formed by Crowley, Gardner...and similiar others.
As far as the "festivals" celebrated by pagan related belief systems, most of these do follow a cyclic concept, the seasons of the year. To the indigenous peoples, the seasons were very important..as they could literally mean life or death for the tribes/clans. If a growing season was not good, there would be a poor havest...meaning not much food to sustain the tribe/clan during the long harsh winters....Same with hunting wild game..to eat and make tools and clothes from. If there was a drought, then wild game would either begin to die, or travel farther to find an area that had enough food to sustain them. If rivers ran low...then the staple of fish would be less too. The first indigenous belief system was animism or similiar too, because it dealt directly with all those earth things that sustained the tribe/clan.
(quote)
These Festivals are derived from variously, Celtic and Saxon sources, and their essence has remained in modern society through folk memory, and in many rural traditions.(quote)
While there is a Celtic and Saxon influence to the festivals some belief systems celebrate, the concepts go back much further in the indigenous belief systems. Not every belief system believes in these festivals...as named...but do believe in honoring the seasons. Southwestern Native Americans...honor the 'corn maiden' after the corn and other grains are harvested in the fall....for instance.
As far as Paganism in NZ and OZ....it is not different than anywhere else. Indigenous peoples had their own belief systems...and some still do, though, just as anywhere else in the world...there is a little Christian influence woven in also. A good example of this would be the Carribean belief systems..Santeria, Voudon, and of course in the US, voodoo and hoodoo and other systems of various names.
As far as organized Pagan Alliances...there are some...where different belief systems under the pagan umbrella have come together....formally in a political sense. There are other types of belief systems who are activists, into reclaiming...etc... .
(quote)Paganism stresses the importance of individuality, there are few, if any, widespread customs. A sense of the sanctity of the natural world, concern for the environment, and acceptance that we are socially responsible to our fellow-creatures, dictates the kind of customs which most Pagans follow.(quote)
I don't know if some of this is factual. Again...'paganism' is singular in this case...and doesn't take into account all of the different types of belief system under the pagan umbrella. Most earth based belief systems do have the same type of similiar customs.
(quote)There are no dietary requirements, or any prohibitions within the Pagan philosophy. Those who follow a vegan/vegetarian diet, or who abstain from alcohol, tobacco, etc., do so out of choice, not tenets of faith.(quote)
There are some belief systems under the pagan umbrella that do have some dietary requirements and there are those who frown on putting substances into your body. A healthy body is needed. There are some organized religions who follow these same concepts, as well.
(quote)There are no laws of blasphemy and conflict between individuals remains the responsiblity and concern of those who are involved. There are no penances, or any other form of religious punishments.(quote)
This is not quite true either. Many belief systems under the pagan umbrella...do have guidelines for these things...and punishments. Actually in any belief system...pagan related or organized religion..i.e...Christian..Abrahamic....etc.......there are guidelines. And, yes...each person needs to be responsible for their own actions.
(quote)
Paganism does not legislate where matters of morality and ethics are concerned. It is up to each individual to be responsible for their own viewpoints and decisions. The religion itself does not promote nor condemn practices related to sexual activity, procreation, use of alcohol and other mind altering substances. Individual Pagans may hold viewpoints on one or more of these issues, however, they are PERSONAL viewpoints, and not the considered opinion of the religion per se (quote).
Now, this statement is not really true. Again, the author is speaking of paganism as if it is a singular system.
Many belief systems/paths under the pagan umbrella frown heavily on some of these things...and some belief systems do not consider personal viewpoints....just as some organized religions do, certains beliefs and rules are a requirement for said religion.
(quote)
Pagans have a high regard for the equality of the sexes and do not suppress the feminine principle in the way that many other religions seem to do. Pagan Priestesses have the same status as Priests; in some traditions, they have primacy in leading the religious practices.(quote)
Not all belief systems under the pagan umbrella believe in equality of the sexes (although in these modern times, that is changing). Some belief systems/religions are matriarichial and some are patriarchial. Many Christian religions are like that as well.
The fallacy of(quote)
Pagans do not perform sacrifices (other than of their own energy and time), and are not opposed to any other religious beliefs.(quote)
Some pagan related belief systems to perform sacrifices, some are blood sacrifices..mostly of animal nature (Carribean bases belief systems and some systems originating from certain areas in Africa.
I would say that most people in pagan related belief systems are not opposed to other religions. It is a respect that people should believe the way they want too.
On the other hand, in some organized traditions, members are almost fiercely protective of their beliefs and do think other systems are lacking...but these are mainly localized...and depends on how the person in charge and the members have formed their group/coven.
(quote)
Paganism is a legitimate, coherent and responsible spiritual path to which many people are attracted in these days of ecological concern. To be a Pagan in the 20th (and 21st) century is to hold and believe in the sacredness of all things; to revere and respect all life; and to love and honour one's family and friends.(quote)
Technically this is a false statement, in that it once again presents 'Paganism" as a singular belief system.
However, it is true that the belief systems under the pagan umbrella..do have ligitimate, coherent, responsible spiritual paths. Indeed, this goes back to the ancient indigenous peoples.
It needs to be remembered that many belief systems/paths under the pagan umbrella in the 20th/21st centuries...are evolving into new beliefs...that are not dependent on the original premise of the belief systems.
Not all hold the sacredness of all things as part of their belief system in the same way. There are differences.
All in all, this was a well written essay, and informative....however, some of the information was not true..and this is simply because the author assumed that all belief systems that were termed Pagan believed alike.
Sorry, I know I wrote a book...lol
Not every belief system under the pagan umbrella has the God/Goddess type belief, and not all have Priests or Priestesses. However most did/do have a person in authority who officiated over many ceremonial type things.
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Permalink Reply by jayne kait on -
It needs a little work I think, to generalized and some facts aren't quite accurate. many do believe in good and evil. it helps us to account for our actions. also church religions rituals are for the most part adapted from so called "pagan" rituals. There are several good books that would help fill out the history and belief system of the kinds of "paganism" practiced today. "The Goodly Spellbook" is one. Written by "Lady Passion" aka, Dixie Deerman and "Diuvei" aka, Steven Rasmussen. Both are 3rd generation Gardnerian witches and formed Coven Oldenwilde. website, www.oldenwilde.com
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Permalink Reply by roberta wolfe on -
FINALLY SOMEBODY IS GIVING THE FACTS ABOUT PAGANISM IM SO HAPPY THAT SOMENE CAN GIVE AN ACURATE HISTORY OF THIS PATH OF SPIRITUALITY. THANK YOU.
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Permalink Reply by Brockenhexe on -
Greetings Lady Anastasia,
The GODCHECHER column is very informative. I had a few bits I wanted to add.
Did - but it was not accepted.
There is a line through the section that needs to be filled with one's name. It does not accept any writing!!! I put my name on top of what I wrote - yet it was refused.
I left all as I wrote and switched back to this site. I do not know if you can go to it. It was not a criticism, just an addition to what was said about the nordic ways I grew up with.
Blessings,
Brockenhexe
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Permalink Reply by autumn on -
As I read the article I was prompted to think...NO...that is not how I believe at all ....but then alot of what is said here is how I walk MY path. I do believe in a Duality. I do not "Practice"... I "live" my path. It is not something I DEBATE.....I feel it is unnecessary unless someone asks me what I believe specifically. I DO not argue or get involved in heated yes or no questions as I feel that my path encompasses beliefs mingled from many different paths. No ones path is wrong.
While reading this I too wanted to respond to certian aspects. If I was to quote and comment I have to say that ShaamAnsu's "BOOK"...(LOL).. was brilliant and what... if not how I would have stated my response...I would not write so elequently....PEACE!
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Permalink Reply by Celticlass on -
ONE persons opinion and probably a good description of THEIR path,however,I for one have NEVER tried to fit being a witch or Pagan into suiting the modern world,dont care if the modern world likes it or not. Pagan,rural folk.NOT all pagans follow the Nature path,either or consider ALL things sacred. Again,THIS persons path and their perception of it,much good things,but TOO general to lump us ALL in this group. ALSO PAGANISM,is not a religion,anyway,in my opinion,a way of life however.
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Permalink Reply by Breandán on -
I think I agree with much of hwat has already been said. ShaamAnsu, especially, did a fantastic job.
Much too generalized to include all the varieties of so-called "pagan" religions.
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Permalink Reply by Lady Anastasia on -
I very much agree with Sham Ansu, Autumn and Smelly Cat. I wrote a book of a response too on the site that I found this one...
I'm now debating some of the information.
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Permalink Reply by ShaamAnsu on
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This is a subject that comes up now and again on most sites like this.
One thing is for sure, it does create a lively debate sometimes...lol.
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Permalink Reply by Lady Anastasia on
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I love a chance for a good debate
ShaamAnsu said:This is a subject that comes up now and again on most sites like this.
One thing is for sure, it does create a lively debate sometimes...lol.
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