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What does pagan mean?



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You're not the first person to wonder what the word "Pagan” means. Pagans live all around the globe. This term can also be used to refer to shamanism or respect for the deceased. Moreover, it's used to describe witchcraft. But, it's not clear what paganism really means.

'Pagan' means 'civilian'

Although the word "pagan", has no religious roots whatsoever, it is commonly used to refer to people who don’t adhere to traditional religious practices. The word "peasant" derives its name from the classical Latin "pagus," which is also the origin of the word. The word originally meant 'rustic' or "non-religious," but over time it has come to mean civilian.

'Heathen' means'military'

"Heathen" can be used to refer to those who practice Asatru (an Old Norse religion). It is also used to refer to practices that are based upon Germanic traditions. Asatru members are found in Germany and Canada. They are organized in the Troth, which is a 501c3 religious organization and has stewards based in Australia and New Zealand.


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"Shamanism," means "respect for dead"

Shamanism has its own philosophical underpinnings. While Shamanism was closely related with the early Abrahamic religions the shamanic worldview had more gods or evil spirits and superstition. Its influence is reflected in the Bible.


'Witchcraft'

Pagan culture defines witchcraft as the practice of using supernatural powers (including those of nature) to control the world around yourself. These methods have been practiced by pagans for hundreds of years. They believe that rituals and special conspiracies allow them to communicate with the natural world and receive special powers. This tradition is frequently associated with esotericism. Esotericism is the study of ancient beliefs, philosophies and theories.

'Druidism'

Druidism is an ancient spiritual path that was rooted in pagan beliefs. Many druids believe the nature of life is spiritual. They believe in reincarnation as well as alternate lives in another dimension. James Lovelock, a NASA employee, created the Gaia hypothesis in 1960s. It claims that Earth is a living organism. Golding gave the idea its name.

'Hellenism'

The broad term "Hellenism", which refers to a range of pagan religious traditions, that honor the pantheons and ancient Greeks, is called "Hellenism". These practices attempt to revive religious traditions that were used by the ancients. Some groups claim that they are the original tradition. Others are revivalists.


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'Wicca'

Wicca is a form pagan religion which involves worshipping and working together with a Goddess or God. These deities can be represented in many ways, including the Triple Goddess (or Horned Goddess), or Goddess of Moon (or both). These deities are placed at different times, but Wiccans tend to believe that God and Goddess are one in the same, and both are part of the Divine image.



 



What does pagan mean?