The Pagan Religion

Time and again you run across an article or interview in the media that talks of Paganism as one of the fastest growing religions in the United States.   And time and again those snippets in the press are incorrect and misleading.

Lets take a look at the word Pagan or Paganism.  In Roman times the title of Pagan was given to anyone that did not subscribe to the Christian religion.  *The term Pagan  originates from the Latin term of paganus "peasant, rural, rustic", later "civilian".   Also more commonly defined as heathen, country dweller,  a follower of a polytheistic religion.* 

These are the technical definitions of the word Paganism, but Paganism in and of itself is not a religion.  It actually has become a "umbrella" term that covers a great many different paths.   Covered under this term are Wicca, Witchcraft, Shamanism, Druidry, and Ásatrú to name just a few.   Each of these are distinctly different sets of beliefs and practices.  Ask a follower of Ásatrú if they are Pagan you will get a resounding no.  Same with many other paths.   Paganism or the term Pagan has become a politically correct term, which tends to cause less upset in the public view then say the word Witch, which brings up a more negative connotation.   

So Paganism is not a singular religion, but what of the different paths covered under the term.  To some who subscribe to one of the many paths that fall under Paganism, the term religion brings to mind very negative connotations.   Thoughts of dogma and conformity come to mind.  However, if you look up the term religion you will find that it encompasses a set of beliefs or faith in something or some higher power.   If we use that definition then each and everyone of these paths do indeed fall under the term of religion.   

Many paths included under the term Paganism have a belief in a male and female entity, which are represented by any number of dieties.   Most of these paths also have a reverence for nature and the cycles of Mother Earth.   And regardless of many common misconceptions, these paths do have a set code of ethics they follow.    Based on these facts then yes each and every one of these paths is their own religion.  The difference between them and the mainstream religions is that most are either dualistic or polytheistic in their belief structure.  There is no one God that will punish you if you go against societies rules.  There is no such term as sin nor is there a heaven or hell.    Those who follow the paths encompassed in Paganism take responsibility for there own actions.  Each path has their own set belief systems and rituals they follow.   So even though they do not subscribe to the beliefs of the mainstream religions, they are no less valid as a religion.    So while some may not agree with them or wish to follow their beliefs, that doesn't make them any less valid as a religion; simply different.   Feel free to contact  me with your questions or comments. 

* pagan. (2009). In Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary.
Retrieved September 28, 2009, from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pagan