Paganism is often referred to as The Old Religion as pre-dates Christianity. In its simplest form, its a spiritual religion that started with mans first thoughts and impression of the world around him. It is generally based on the ancient nature religions of the old, old world. Many of its roots can be found around Europe but the ideas of Paganism and basic practices can be found in every part of our planet. The word "Pagan" actually comes from the Latin word paganus, meaning "country dweller or villager".
In reality, there is no true definition of Paganism. There are many different views on what Pagan means based on each persons own viewpoint of what it is and when it actually started. There are some basic points that are generally agreed on though. Edain McCoy wrote it best “"When one defines oneself as Pagan, it means she or he follows an earth or nature religion, one that sees the divine manifest in all creation. The cycles of nature are our holy days, the earth is our temple, its plants and creatures our partners and teachers. We worship a deity that is both male and female, a mother Goddess and father God, who together created all that is, was, or will be. We respect life, cherish the free will of sentient beings, and accept the sacredness of all creation."
There are many Pagan paths, including Asatru, Druidism, Shamanism, Wicca and many others and each of those have their own subsections as well. For the most part though, we all share a common belief system and can practice together with ease.
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