Paganism, Wicca, Druidism, etc

That's the thing about paganism in general. You might hear many different definitions, and they MIGHT all be right--at least to some degree. As I said before, it's very individualistic.

Generally speaking, I consider paganism to be any type of "earth-based" religion. In other words, it has these basic characteristics:


1--It focuses on the "here & now" rather than an afterlife. Pagans generally believe in some sort of reincarnation, but not always. But the focus of the religion/philosophy is how to live THIS life.

2--Deep respect for nature in all its forms. Even inanimate things (like rocks, for instance) are believed to possess some element of "spirit" or "divinity."

3--The inter-connectedness of all things in the earth &/or the universe. This generally boils down to an issue of energy, IMO. Just as your heart & brain & skin cells are all part of YOU--all of us, & animals & plants & dirt, etc.--are part of Earth, & the universe at large.

4--Some pagans believe in gods/goddesses--some sort of deity--& some don't. I personally tend to think that the mythology of particular deities is a way for us to compartmentalize some universal truths that are difficult to grasp in our (relatively) primitive human minds. For me, the deities are useful for focusing energy; but I don't necessarily believe in them as distinct beings with individual identities.

5--Paganism is non-proselytizing. Pagans don't SEEK converts, as many religions do. If you believe differently, so be it. Whatever works for you. There's no attitude of, "this is the truth & you must agree or be damned." We all have to follow our own paths to arrive at understanding.

6--Wiccans are pagans, but pagans aren't necessarily wiccans. I think the word "wicca" originally meant something like "to bend" or "to change." In the most general terms, wiccans believe in focusing energy to bend things to their will. In strict terms, I would be considered a wiccan or a witch. But I hesitate to use such a limiting term for myself, just because of the preconceived notions associated with it. I DO act to focus energy to benefit myself & others; & I try not to be manipulative over anyone's free will; & I try not to wish harm to anyone. And I most definitely see results from these efforts to focus mental energy in a particular direction.

7--On a personal note, I think that the energies I discuss and the methods of "manipulating" them will eventually be scientifically understandable & controllable.

Hope this clarifies a few things

 

Nice job, AK. I like the way you explained that. :xyzthumbs

 

I'm a part-time druid

 

i'm a back slidden suthren baptist.

 

That explains a lot.