I am posting this thread, because am curious about what it means to be a Pagan? and how it's became a popular nature religion, mainly with people that love to be surrounded by the beauty of nature, and love to be in tune with nature, and to commune with their Gods and Goddesses, and feel the strong spiritual energies around them. I would like to know everyone's views of what Paganism means to you?
According to http://www.everythingunderthemoon.net/what_is_a_pagan.htp
The word pagan originally meant someone who lived in the country. Over time the meaning has changed so that now it denotes mean someone who follows a nature-based religion. This religion sometimes includes magic and/or magical thinking. Paganism joins science, metaphysics, and mysticism with spirituality. It is a broad term that includes a wide range of faiths that accept one, many, or no god. But most pagans reject the views of God which are accepted by Jews, Christians and Muslims. Pagans stress personal responsibility rather than salvation given by something outside of themselves.
Is there more than one pagan religion?
There are hundreds of different pagan religions. Some of the best-known pagan religions are Buddhism, Hinduism, Shintoism, Taoism, Druidism, Shamanism, Wicca, Asatru, Neo-paganism, Eclectic paganism, and traditional Native American religions.
Is paganism a cult?
No, some pagan groups may be classified as cults, just like some Christian groups are cults. The Christian group which was headed by Jim Jones at Jonestown and which committed mass suicide and the followers of David Koresh at Waco, Texas are both considered cults. The members of these groups were extremely devoted to an individual person who required unusual or extreme beliefs and to the practices of those beliefs. Fanatics and religious charlatans can occur in any religion, denomination, or race, so cults can be a part of any religious or spiritual tradition.
The word cult is often used as a slur to demean someone else's religious beliefs. It is frequently used to criticize indigenous or folk cultures and their beliefs. Historians sometimes use the word cult to refer to any ancient belief system that was not part of major world religions, including ancient Goddess worshippers.
Are pagans devil worshippers?
No, pagans do not believe in or worship the devil or Satan. He is part of the Judeo-Christian mythology.
Are all pagans witches?
No, many pagan groups do not practice witchcraft. some of the pagan groups who do practice witchcraft include Wiccans, Dianic Witches, and Green Witches. But not all witches are pagans either. Christian Witches are practicing Christians who also use witchcraft. Santeria is a Cuban religion that blends Voodoo, Witchcraft, and Christianity.
What do I need to be a pagan?
Pagans share a love of nature and a commitment to live in harmony with the earth and her creatures. You need to feel in your heart that this is where your own spirituality is leading you. Only you know if you are a pagan in your heart.
What is a pagan ritual?
A ritual is anything that focuses your spiritual energy like a church service, a wedding, a funeral, or a Hopi Sun Dance. They are one way humans express their connection with divinity and with each other. Humans have created rituals since the beginning of time.
Pagan rituals may be for personal use alone or for a group to do together. Many pagan rituals begin by honoring the four directions and the elements Air, Fire, Water, and Earth which the directions represent. Rituals often include singing, chanting, dancing, drumming, poetry, and hymns to the Goddess or God. Some rituals are very complex and dramatic while others are very simple and flow with the energy of the group. Your grandmother may have placed a horseshoe over the door, a simple and popular protection ritual that is rooted in pagan tradition. Throwing spilled salt over your shoulder to ward off bad luck is another.
