Why are you a pagan?

[lasso]

Hello all,

I've been reading here (by invitation :) ) to learn more about people who consider themselves pagan. I realize that's a broad umbrella, but I was wondering if anyone would like to help me with a question I've been wondering about:

Why are you a pagan? What is it that attracted you to your current religious beliefs?

This question holds great interest to me, and I would appreciate all responses.

Thanks!

lasso

[Ahautenites]

I'm People because Christianity doesn't speak to me. I'm Kemetic (soon to be Orthodox) because the Netjeru spoke to me.... quite loudly and quite persistently. (And followed it up with making some of my weirder wishes come true, and They let me know it no uncertain terms that it was They Who were responsible for it, too.)

I suspect that at the inception of Christianity, I would have been a follower of Christ, simply because it was new and different at the time.

I love to explore things. Food, locations, religions.... If it seems new, or rare, or unusual, chances are good I'm going to take a closer look at it at some point.

[LadyTrinity]

it completes me :tongueout

[serenarian]

I'm a Pagan because I identify with its beliefs. I live in tune with the earth and I have always believed in duality - if there is a God there must be a Goddess. I identified with the way Paganism makes you look inside yourself and take responsibility for your own actions.

Christianity never appealed to me.

[Blair]

I'm pagan basically because that's what I am. I can't imagine myself as anything else. I never belonged to another religion. As a child I was naturally drawn toward ancient mythology and the occult. I also had strong beliefs that were most definitely pagan but didn't realize that was the word for it til I was 14.

[Aelfoak]

Ever since i was a child i never felt comfortable with Christianity, i just never felt right singing hymn's in school etc. I grew up knowing that i was a very spiritual person and that i had a close spiritual bond with nature and always loved being outdoors, wheather it was rain, wind or snow, and i loved wildlife too. My mother was a major influence on me as she was a very spiritual person too and had many books on the Rune's, witchcraft, druidry, folklore, crystal healing, the supernatural and the tarot, and i used to spend much of my time reading through these books when i was young, and when i was old enough to discover Paganism for myself i decided that this was my path in life. I don't really follow one of Paganism's umbrella beliefs such as Wicca or Odinism, i just follow my own Earth and nature based spirituality.

[DragonFriend]

I'm a Pagan because I identify with its beliefs. I live in tune with the earth and I have always believed in duality - if there is a God there must be a Goddess. I identified with the way Paganism makes you look inside yourself and take responsibility for your own actions.

Christianity never appealed to me.


What she said - well pretty much - the whole christianity bit never appealed to me. I think Id been getting the call from an early age - I went to church with my parents but it never sat right with me. I managed to get myself booted out of Sunday school - not for being bad but just asking too many questions - so much of what was being taught didnt seem right.

It never seemed right either to be able to blame the "will of god" thing for all the bad things that happen - I think the buck has to stop a bit lower down than that........

Also paganism isnt an evangelical faith - we all come to it by ourselves - not because we have been preached to or "converted" by someone else. That appeals to me far more.

[lasso]

Great responses! I really appreciate all the replies, they are very helpful.

I don't want to hinder continued answers to the main question, but another question comes to mind. (Please forgive me, I'm like a sponge :) ) Or rather, maybe clarification questions for your already given answers.

How did you "learn" about your religion?

How did you come to worship the way you do now?

Does your belief system have a diety? If so, how did you learn about this diety?

Thank you very much for helping an inquiring mind. :)

[semi]

For me it just feels right. I was born into a Catholic family but it never worked for me, never answered my questions. I was actually thrown out of sunday school when I was 4 or 5, I don't remember, for "asking too many questions." So way back then I thought something like "Well, screw you guys, I'll find out on my own." I wanted to know why I was here, why anything at all was here, what's the purpose of it all. I had had numerous odd things occur----hearing voices, seeing things, feeling things, going into trance, etc---- that couldn't be explained except by labeling me with various psychological dysfunctions. But western science had no real answers either so again "screw you guys."

I read everything I could about religions, philosophies, metaphysics, blah blah blah. I liked bits from different systems but nothing as a whole. By my midteens I had found some answers and learned that I could affect my environment by focusing my will. Unfortunately, my environment was hell and I had become a bad person and caused bad things to occur. Eventually I moved toward nature-based beliefs and worked toward changing myself and my energy, worked on healing and stuff. The Native American path and shamanism worked in a real tangible way so I went with that. It completely changed my life and since then I've tried to live like a Warrior with a certain code of behavior and ethics. It fits me very well. A few years after that I found Santeria and it felt very right. I felt a strong pull. The first ritual I did had major huge positive results and I knew I had found my path.

Today I still practice a mixture of the Native American path and an African path called Ifa, a religion that Santeria, Macumbe, Palo, Voodoo, etc are all rooted in. Nothing makes me feel more alive or more in touch with the energies of the universe and beauty of existence than this spiritual path. Not even music, which I revere almost as a religion. This spiritual path is the reason I exist. It's waking me up spiritually and causing me to evolve. And that, I believe, is the reason we all exist.

By the way, I also tried Christianity in the late 13th century. I was a priest back then. A priest who was also a murderer, rapist, and arsonist. I guess that path just doesn't work for me.

[Ahautenites]

How did you "learn" about your religion?

I've always known it existed, but it wasn't until after I'd considered myself an eclectic solitary Wiccan for a while that I learned there were modern-day revivals of my current religion. I got dragged kicking and screaming out of Wicca by a rather insistent goddess named Seshat. She's the Egyptian Scribe Goddess. I was doing an article on the accountants at a company I used to work at, and I needed some help on it. She sent me a dream to help me get it done. After that, She made Herself known by popping up everywhere I looked (Her symbols appeared in paintings or artwork on the walls, or else I'd hear music or see commercials that reminded me of Her, and She even sent me a flood once, to "help" me out when I asked for it. I'm not sure She realized I was JOKING at the time.)

How did you come to worship the way you do now?

Over time and with study. I had to transition *out* of being a Wiccan and *into* my current practices.

Does your belief system have a deity?

Several thousand, actually. Or just one, depending on how you look at it. ;)

If so, how did you learn about this deity / these deities?

By reading about Them. Or else by having Them crop up while I was researching something completely unrelated. Or else, the old standby: in dream visits.

[Cielamara]

I am pagan because I am a very dark, wild, fey creature at heart, and I have a lot of unusual abilities and ways of seeing things that simply didn't jive with Christianity, even in the more liberal doctrine I grew up in--Presbyterianism. I also was drawn to paganism because I feel the divine feminine energies much more strongly than the masculine--I do not exclude the masculine energies, I just need to, on a personal level, work with a Goddess more than I do a God, because I'm currently going through a time in my life when I need to learn how to grasp the dark (Watery) energies in me, and I need to learn how to balance my very Watery emotions with my very Airy intellect. So, I went looking for the Goddess...and I found her...and she's been with me, and consciously within me, ever since. :)

[Writer_Waif]

Why are you a pagan?

I am pagan because it is who and what I am. Specifically .. I have been labeled Christian, Baptist, Methodist, ... as I walked various walks. Each one never fully answering the many questions that I had. Each one not fullfilling. There were many things on each path that I did not feel were 'right', 'correct'. I never truly fit in.

What is it that attracted you to your current religious beliefs?

I don't think I was attracted .. I think it just was 'to be'. It happened, I have never questioned why it happened, I do know how and who is responsible, but that is another story.

How did you "learn" about your religion?

I learn now by listening to others, reading books, the net. I don't know that my particular path is something I need to 'learn' as it is 'natural' for me, and therefore something that just IS.

How did you come to worship the way you do now?

I have answered this in the first few questions I hope. If not feel free to PM me if you need more detail.

Does your belief system have a diety? If so, how did you learn about this diety?

My personal belief system has whatever diety I am working with at the time. Many are nameless and/or faceless. The one I tend to work with the most is my Patron Diety: Pele'.

[Aurin]

My beliefs have grown and developed based on what feels right to me; What I've learned to be MY truths. The only broad label that could be applied to my set of beliefs would be "pagan". Though I suppose if you wanted to get fancy you could try combining other terms... Hrm.. perhaps Druidist for a druid/buddhist mix? heh heh..

[~BEBZ~]

Why are you Pagan?

Because I didn't fit in anywhere else. I always felt close to the earth and nature. But not people. Biblical religions are all about people. Also, I wanted to get as far away from those nut-job hypocrites as I could.


How did you "learn" about your religion?

My High School library. There was a really good Time Life book on it. Also the Groiler Encyclopedia, and Buckland's guide.


How did you come to worship the way you do now?

I went rounds with mainstream religion. I was very spiritual, so I attended every church in the area. I thought they were all full of crap. When I found my "path" it just fit.

Does your belief system have a diety? If so, how did you learn about this diety?

I don't exactly prescribe to any one deity. Only duality.

[Aidron]

Why are you pagan?


While technically, I am Pagan by the definition, I do not refer to myself as such or proclaim to be one. However, I am what I am, which is a witch, because if I were not I do not imagine I would be able to continue breathing. It is something that fufills my soul, quenches a thirst you could say. It does not complete me, but it fleshes out who I am. I would still be who I was whether Witchcraft or Paganism were widespread in this day and age, but this is a way for me to define and expand myself.

What is it that attracted you to your current religious beliefs?

Scintilating curiosity. I thrive to understand things and through my studies I attempt to explain what I can, and take comfort in things are as they simply because not all things can be explained or comprehended by me, and all things do not even need have a purpose behind them. I have always been drawn to fantastical things, whether it be magic and unicorns, or outlandish clothing and free spiritedness. My faith is like a comfortable recliner you can sink into and feel absolutely safe, content to watch the world pass by or simply close your eyes and indulge in your own existence. That is what drew me in and keeps me here.

How did you "learn" about your religion?

Through rigorous study (books, television, internet, speaking with others) and introspection. It is truly 50/50 looking outside and inside for me. Neither is better in my eyes, but in the end I always look inside myself for the final reasoning or answer.

How did you come to worship the way you do now?

I cannot say. I have merely evolved over the years and will continue to do so. I could no sooner tell you how I came to be who I am now without sitting you down and speaking incessantly for probably a week straight. I just flowed with the wind and tread where I felt was appropriate for me.

Does your belief system have a deity? If so, how did you learn about this deity?

I see all things as being one, and that divinity is not seperate from us or anything else, but divinity lives and breathes in all. A universal interconnectedness, if you will. I do, however hold the greek pantheon in high esteem above all others, as it has always held a special place in my heart and captivated me. My three patron deities in fact stem from it, they being Athena, Artemis, and Aphrodite. I do work with others from time to time and have personal favorites from numerous pantheons such as Amaterasu (Shinto Sun Goddess) to Oya (African Goddess of Wind and Storm) name two.

[Evendusk]

I was raised a Catholic but from a young age I was very confused about the doctrine and noone could explain it to me (just take it on faith). The massive hypocrisy I saw in the people who would attend mass, be holier than thou but then be the bitterest, nastiest people to have to deal with day to day really turned me off from religion. I quit attending mass and Cathechism when I was nine, no big deal in a non-practicing family and slowly over the years started forming my own philosophy.

I had lots of little paranormal experiences of my own and they only served to affirm that there are different levels of being. I looked briefly at other organized religions but there is always such an emphasis on the structure of the religion that the message gets lost or perverted. I considered myself agnostic for years but I've always believed in a higher power, meaning in life, life after death etc. so I've been looking at different pagan beliefs for the past 5-6 years seeing what feels right or not. I'm still looking.

[Blair]

How did you "learn" about your religion?

In my opinion, relgion can not be "learned". Practices and traditions can be learned but the the religion itself. My religion is my own creation, mostly from what I believe and intuition. However, several of the practices that I use and have tried in the past have come from book and online research.

How did you come to worship the way you do now?

It was an evolution of learning what works and what doesn't - mostly through intuition and a little research. You never know til you try! Plus the right way for me to worship changes over time. What worked for me 5 years ago doesn't really work for me now.

Does your belief system have a diety? If so, how did you learn about this diety?

I'm a polytheist. I believe in the gods as separate entities just as the ancient pagans did. Currently the dieties I'm working with are Freya and Thor. This past year something has nudged me in the direction of norse mythology and religion which lead me to research the gods and goddesses there. But Freya still had to give me a swift tug on the arm before I really listened.

[lasso]

Wow, you guys are so helpful. I really appreciate you taking the time out to answer my questions. I'm very inquisitive by nature, so I hope I don't wear you all out with questions. :lol:

But, here's two more that come to mind, after reading the responses.

1. A lot of the responses seem to focus on the fact that it "feels right" for you, and that your worship changes. Is a major factor in why you hold to a particular belief the lack of "rules," or having to comform to a set of rules?

2. Do any of your religious practices have "rules" or guidelines for proper worship of your respective dieties? (In other words, does the deity you worship ever become displeased with you, and if so, how do you know?)

3. Have you gone back and forth from the different types of paganism?

Thanks, hope I'm not being a pain. But I'm really learning a lot. :)

[Blair]

It's me again. I have nothing better to do at work until I have to go to class. BTW, you're free to pm me with any personal questions regarding this topic or anything else.

1. A lot of the responses seem to focus on the fact that it "feels right" for you, and that your worship changes. Is a major factor in why you hold to a particular belief the lack of "rules," or having to comform to a set of rules?

Ok. I'm not sure if I understand this one entirely but I'll give it a try... I don't conform to anything. The thing I really like my religion is that I'm free to change it as I wish or need. So I guess I like it for its lack of "rules"... the rules I follow are the laws of nature... basically treating everything with respect.

2. Do any of your religious practices have "rules" or guidelines for proper worship of your respective dieties? (In other words, does the deity you worship ever become displeased with you, and if so, how do you know?)

There are no rules or guidelines really. I haven't upset her yet so I wouldn't really know about that last part but I'm sure Freya would let me know quickly if I did. More than anything just listen to your heart. Certain traditions have specified ways of worship but I've never really liked those.

3. Have you gone back and forth from the different types of paganism?

I tried out Wicca for a while but finally realized it just wasn't for me when I finally got some religious freedom and was able to look at my beliefs critically.

[spooky]

because it is joyful and a lot more fun than catholicism, which is just paganism in a man's world, anyway.

[OKmagnolia]

Great responses! I really appreciate all the replies, they are very helpful.

I don't want to hinder continued answers to the main question, but another question comes to mind. (Please forgive me, I'm like a sponge :) ) Or rather, maybe clarification questions for your already given answers.

How did you "learn" about your religion?

How did you come to worship the way you do now?

Does your belief system have a diety? If so, how did you learn about this diety?

Thank you very much for helping an inquiring mind. :)

Ok, I will try to answer these in order asked. Hopefully.
1) I never was comfortable in Christianity. I was baptized in the Freewill Baptist Church, even taught Sunday School for a year, but the whole time I felt like something was missing, like I wasn't whole. I stopped going to church and my sisters began telling me about wicca/witchcraft and I knew that this was what was missing. I now feel whole finally.
2) Once agian I go back to my sisters. We talk everyday and of course the subject came up and I was hooked. For them I am Eternally grateful for them.
3) I haven't yet found the "deities" that are for me personally. I always refer to "The Lord and Lady" or "The God and Goddess". I am interested in so many of the different pantheons I haven't been able to narrow it down to the one that calls more to me. I don't know if I ever will.

I hope that this helps you.

[lasso]

because it is joyful and a lot more fun than catholicism, which is just paganism in a man's world, anyway.

I hate to ask rapid-fire questions, because everyone's responses are really good. But spooky makes me wonder about another question:

I've seen catholicism mentioned several times in these responses. How many of you came from catholicism to paganism? How many from protestant denominations?

Thanks!

[Ahautenites]

Not I. I'm of no denomination. My parents wouldn't let me have a religion while I was in school. They wanted me to be old enough to make my own religious decisions. (Although, now I think they regret that, seeing as I didn't pick any form of Christianity.)

[DebLipp]

Why are you Pagan?

From childhood, I was aware of deep spiritual longings. As my beliefs grew, I knew I needed a religious path that embraced the Feminine. I had spiritual experiences in Nature and felt that the beliefs that spoke most clearly to me were of the ancient Greeks. Before I knew that there was such a thing as a modern Pagan movement, I began worshiping the Moon as Artemis and other Greek deities as well.

How did you "learn" about your religion?

In 1985 I encountered a feminist newsletter that mentioned a Wiccan ritual. This was my first exposure. Subsequently, I read a letter to the editor by a Wiccan, and contacted him. Finally, I read Drawing Down the Moon by Margot Adler, and the addresses in the back provided contact with my first group.

How did you come to worship the way you do now?

I followed the practice of the group I trained in, and as my training grew, my understanding of worship grew as well. Everyone that I have worshiped with has had a commitment to improving the quality of our ritual/religious life, and so we have modified over the years.

Does your belief system have a diety? If so, how did you learn about this diety?

Indeed, I am a polytheist and believe in many deities, Whom I learn of through reading, research, meditation, and vision.

And “two” more (teehe)

1. A lot of the responses seem to focus on the fact that it "feels right" for you, and that your worship changes. Is a major factor in why you hold to a particular belief the lack of "rules," or having to comform to a set of rules?

I am comfortable with rules, and I am also comfortable with understanding that rules grow out of a working paradigm, not from any sort of absolute truth. Therefore, rules are permeable and responsive to our needs.

2. Do any of your religious practices have "rules" or guidelines for proper worship of your respective dieties? (In other words, does the deity you worship ever become displeased with you, and if so, how do you know?)

Rules of religious practice and pleasure/displeasure of a deity are two entirely different things.

3. Have you gone back and forth from the different types of paganism?

I have always been Wiccan. I have also practiced Druidism and sometimes practice Hinduism but have never identified as anything but Wiccan.

[lasso]

Not I. I'm of no denomination. My parents wouldn't let me have a religion while I was in school. They wanted me to be old enough to make my own religious decisions. (Although, now I think they regret that, seeing as I didn't pick any form of Christianity.)

So your parents are Christian? But they didn't try to raise you to be a Christian?

[Antoninus]

How did you "learn" about your religion?
Simple experience. I read, I asked questions, I asked the Gods themselves.

How did you come to worship the way you do now?
Trial and error

Does your belief system have a diety? If so, how did you learn about this diety?
Many many many of them

What is it that attracted you to your current religious beliefs?
Because it feels comfortable to me. It doesnt put rules on me that are against human nature. It gives me something to have faith in, something to hold on to. Someone to rely on.

Do any of your religious practices have "rules" or guidelines for proper worship of your respective dieties? No human sacrifices

[Know Your Rights]

I am Pagan because it is who I am... I spent many years as a Christian and all that time lying to myself, discovering it held nothing for me, the services bored me to sleep (literally, especially after a late night).... for my mom's sake I still go, I can't tell her that I am Pagan because, love her though I do, I doubt she'd respect that too much.
Being Pagan completes me, I've found that little part of my life that was missing, and am more content now than I have been in a long time.
As to answer your questions... first, I am still learning, through boards like this and online because I don't have the funds to purchase books. My beliefs are... still forming...

[MerrisHawk]

Why are you a pagan?
I started out with another religion and was happy with it til I was old enough to question the things that didn't make sense. When the answers were, "That's just the way it is." or "This is how its always been done." it was time to explore new ideas. After a couple years of research and study, I found paganism. It suits my need for exploration and the ability to change or adapt as I change.

How did you "learn" about your religion?
Research, studying, following my own interests and ethics. The fact the the learning never stops is like candy to a kid.

How did you come to worship the way you do now?
By studying at first, learning from others and trying things their way. Eventually I decided that I like doing everything my way and now I am a solitary witch.

Does your belief system have a diety? If so, how did you learn about this diety?
I like to use a variety of dieties depending on the need. I don't want to limit myself to one pantheon or one God. I believe there are many aspects of the divine and it will take me lifetimes to learn them.

[SylverStar]

Hello all,

I've been reading here (by invitation :) ) to learn more about people who consider themselves pagan. I realize that's a broad umbrella, but I was wondering if anyone would like to help me with a question I've been wondering about:

Why are you a pagan? What is it that attracted you to your current religious beliefs?

This question holds great interest to me, and I would appreciate all responses.

Thanks!

lasso
Paganism originally drew me in because it does not put another person lower because of beliefs or religion (i.e. there is no one true religion). Also it has very open views and beliefs. A lot of the same reasons I've been attracted to Hinduism lately. Also it's a more optimistic religion and you are not reliant on some higher power for your actions in life and death.

[lasso]

I wish that I had the time and energy to reply to each and every one of you individually, but please know that I appreciate every response that has been posted. Each has been helpful and informative. Thanks!

My mind is brimming with questions, so allow me a couple more.

1. Is it accurate to say that a main difference between paganism and Christianity is that in paganism you are the one defining your own beliefs, whereas in Christianity it is defined by the object of worship (God)? Or do pagan gods define how they want to be worshipped?

2. There are a lot of ladies here who seem to have an aire of "empowerment" about them, if you will. Is paganism especially attractive to women because it frees them from what they view as an oppressive religion?

Thanks!

[serenarian]

How did you "learn" about your religion?

I'd heard about it in passing several times while growing up. I heard about paganism while I was on a bit of a spiritual search, and my growing interest led me to research more about it.

How did you come to worship the way you do now?

By following my heart.

Does your belief system have a diety?

Yes, more than I could possibly count.

If so, how did you learn about this diety?

Books, mythology studies at school, and through meditation and pathworking.

[Ben Trismegistus]

1. Is it accurate to say that a main difference between paganism and Christianity is that in paganism you are the one defining your own beliefs, whereas in Christianity it is defined by the object of worship (God)? Or do pagan gods define how they want to be worshipped?
In my experience, a large difference between Christianity and paganism (at least, the kind I practice) is the difference between transcendent and immanent divinity. That is, in Judeo-Christianity, God is transcendent, or separate. God is defined as outside ourselves. However, in paganism, God (in whatever form) is generally immanent, or within one's self. In my belief system, God is all around, and we are all part of the body and mind of God. Literally.

[goDez]

1. Is it accurate to say that a main difference between paganism and Christianity is that in paganism you are the one defining your own beliefs, whereas in Christianity it is defined by the object of worship (God)? Or do pagan gods define how they want to be worshipped?

Its not in any way as you described above.. Actually most pagans have set ideas about their beliefs. I suggest you take a look at this page to see what differences exist in pagan traditions concerning the defining of beliefs:

http://www.witchvox.com/xtrads.html

As to explain why you get so much replies of people telling that they have their own beliefs and their own ways of looking at deity and such; I think these persons are eclectic pagans. Which means they'll adjust their beliefs to their free will where they see fit. This is NOT in any way "THE" pagan method of looking at the divine and handling with it. It IS true that there are alot of eclectic pagans around, which explains the replies you've got.


2. There are a lot of ladies here who seem to have an aire of "empowerment" about them, if you will. Is paganism especially attractive to women because it frees them from what they view as an oppressive religion?
I think this is a prejudice you could come across, reading the answers provided. Paganism is NOT in any way especially attractive to women. Men can feel equally attracted. Paganism does not free you from another religion. Pagans accept all other beliefs as existing and do not mind that they do exist. They believe that the path they follow is merely the one that is right for them; and no one has the right to tell a person wether or not a path is right for him/her but him/herself.

May I ask, for what purpose do you wish to learn about paganism? Feel free to PM me if there's anything you need to know!

[Athena-Nadine]

No worries, questions are good. :)

Lasso, this post, copied from a previous post on an older thread, should answer most of your questions for me. :)

My parents were both raised Christian (my mother Episcopalian and my father Catholic). When I was born, my parents both decided, for separate reasons, to not have me baptized. They wanted me to make my own religious choices. *…ponders…* I suppose growing up in New York City made all of this a bit easier… Any question I had about religion, whether it was Christianity or something else, was answered as, "Some people believe…"

My mother started college when I started First Grade. She was an Art History major (she wanted to be an Egyptologist). Because of this, I was taken to museum after museum as a small child, so she could do her research for her papers. Ancient civilizations were a constant topic of conversation. In fact, it wasn’t until a few years ago that I realized that my mother was the first Kemetic I knew (though she is now Christian).

Around that same time, I found a huge Astronomy book sitting on the coffee table, and with the curiosity of a 7-year-old, started looking through it. Of course, it being a college book, I could barely understand anything that was written in it :), but the pictures were the most amazing things I had ever seen. I couldn’t stop looking at them whenever I could get my hands on that book. *…smiles…* My mother never told me that anything was too complicated for me, or that I couldn’t understand, or that I was too young. As with everything else, when I bombarded her with questions, she answered them to the best of her ability, and if she didn’t know, she always said so and then looked the answers up either in that book or at the library with me right next to her.

So here was 7-year-old me, being taken to museum after museum, so my mother could study, because my parents couldn’t afford day care or a baby-sitter. And here was 7-year-old me, with a whole world opening up around me because my mother made it very clear that there was no knowledge too far out of reach if I was willing to chase after it (yes, even then). :) For every art museum we had to go to, we went to the Museum of Natural History twice because I wanted to go to the Planetarium every chance I could get and would beg and beg and beg (*…shakes head and laughs…* though I’m sure my mother had at least as much fun watching me have the passion for something only a child can have as I did). By the time a year had gone by, I was reading my mother’s college science books and understanding most of what I read.

So here I am, an 8-year-old who has spent the last year and a half learning Science’s view of the beginning of everything, and accepted it all with the imaginative innocence of childhood. At the same time, I was learning about the various mainstream religions here and there, whenever I had a question to ask about something. One day my mother brought me home a book (I had, and still have, an insatiable desire to read anything I could get my hands on) of Greek myths. At first, the most exciting thing was seeing my own name in print (Athena). After actually reading through it—it was quite comprehensive, covering every major myth—something sparked within me. I read that book so much that it finally fell apart (and it was a hardcover!). By the time I was 9, I had about 10 or 12 different books on the Greek myths (my mother would bring one home to me every chance she got). Imagine my pleasant surprise when I realized how closely the Ancient Greeks’ creation myth resembled the theory of the Big Bang!

By the time I was 10, I had read the Lattimore Editions of The Illiad and The Odyssey, and most of the Greek Tragedies. Around this time, I was laying in bed, reading the Orphic Hymns, when something occurred to me seemingly out of nowhere: It makes so much more sense that there is a god for every single thing than it does that there is only One (all of the children in my classes were either Christian, Muslim, or Jewish). In that moment, all the Greek myths took on a new voice for me. They suddenly became the other half of the truth that had always been missing from the Sciences. From that moment on, I started studying anything I could find on Ancient Greek history. At 14, I Pledged to Serve Them.

The story really should have just ended here, but…

When I was almost 16, my world shattered completely. My 17-year-old boyfriend raped me and then spent the next year beating and emotionally abusing me. I completely fell apart. After being raped, I could function so little that I was terrified of leaving him—I was terrified of what worse he might do to me then (it took me a year to do so, and don’t worry, I know better now :)). I dropped out of high school, started hanging out with the wrong crowd, and ran away from home three or four times. It should be noted that all this time my father was an alcoholic and drug addict, and I grew up in a very volatile home. Yes, I said, "was." He had a stroke that left him completely paralyzed (he can blink) 16 months ago, so he couldn’t drink a drop now even if he wanted to.

My gods had been with me always. They were there even then, and I didn’t doubt it. However, it took until I was 21 to be able to function somewhat-properly again. It took until I was close to 26 before I was finally mostly myself again. Somewhere in that 6-year span of falling apart and trying to pull myself back together, I stopped speaking to Them. It was never a conscious decision; it just happened (I also stopped reading my science books, but started that back up at around 18 or 19). By the time I was 21, They were never even a thought in my head. It was if I had completely forgotten Them, as if the entirety of my life Before never existed. Once, at about 19, I picked up Elektra, but her story reflected so much of the pain and insanity I was feeling within myself that I could no longer see the lessons in it.

On October 31, 2000 (at almost 28), I got an email from my Internet provider that had a link to an article about the origins of Halloween. It was on Beliefnet. Curious, and bored at work, I decided to read it and ended up on the Wicca board. Upon scanning some of the threads, something within me stirred—something that I hadn’t felt in so long it seemed alien. I registered that same day. For the next six months, I was compelled to search for my spiritual self. *…sighs…* So many years had gone by that I didn’t even know it was missing. I didn’t even realize there was a hole in me until those people (many of whom are on this site now) pointed it out to me just be being. I know I never told most of you any of this, but I can never express how grateful I am to all of you (you know who you are) just for being on that board those years ago.

It was an even harder time that my teenage years, in some ways. I had so many mental blocks to work through, and even more guilt. The rational, logical adult I had become fought every inch of the way. Even after having an actual vision I refused to let go of my stubbornness (*…shakes head and laughs…* my gods and I were definitely made for each other…). Until I almost lost everything, including my own life, September 11, 2001. In that moment, when my whole world was shattered anew, I was again remade. In a really dark moment, all the stories I had ever read about my gods came back to me and I realized something: even They are subject to The Fates. Even Zeus could not stop the fall of Troy, though it broke His heart, as it was what had to be. Even Ares, Who threw everything He had into keeping Troy standing, knew He was fighting a losing battle. It was then that I realized that the fact that bad things happen doesn’t deny Their existence.

And as I stood in the city of my birth, living the pain and horror around me, my heart breaking over and again in the days to come, I couldn’t help but think back to every horrific moment in my life. And it was then that I realized one other thing: oddly, no matter how bad things seemed to those on the outside, when hearing about the things I have been through, those things never seemed as bad to me. Yes, they were hard. Yes, I made some bad decisions in my life. But they were never as bad as they could have been. Even when I thought my world fell apart, it never really did. I never really did. In fact, I have been told more than once that I have lived a charmed life just because I always came out of everything whole in the end. :) And realizing all of that, I realized that my gods never left me, even though I turned my back on Them. They always managed to give me more strength than I thought I had. As dark as things sometimes seemed, I never lost my ability to see and feel joy.

So here I am now, more than 3 years later. I have found my gods again, realized that They never left me—that I has just forgotten how to reach Them—worked through the guilt of turning my back on Them, and began the work of re-reconstructing my religion. And no, I didn’t know my religion had a name until about 2 years ago.

[lasso]

In my experience, a large difference between Christianity and paganism (at least, the kind I practice) is the difference between transcendent and immanent divinity. That is, in Judeo-Christianity, God is transcendent, or separate. God is defined as outside ourselves. However, in paganism, God (in whatever form) is generally immanent, or within one's self. In my belief system, God is all around, and we are all part of the body and mind of God. Literally.

Very interesting. I know there are some Christians who probably feel such a separation, but the Bible doesn't really teach it. For instance, the apostle Paul said in Acts 17:27-28, "that they should seek God, in the hope that they might feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us, for "'In him we live and move and have our being'; as even some of your own poets have said, "'For we are indeed his offspring.'"

Of course, there are a lot of beliefs that some who call themselves Christians practice, that aren't found in the Bible.

Good post, thank you!

[Athena-Nadine]

I 1. Is it accurate to say that a main difference between Peopleism and Christianity is that in Peopleism you are the one defining your own beliefs, whereas in Christianity it is defined by the object of worship (God)? Or do People gods define how they want to be worshipped?

Everyone, consciously or unconsciously, defines their own beliefs. Christians do it by choosing to believe in their god, thus following the tenets set down in order to worship Him properly. Peoples, being such a diverse group of religions, do this as well. Some do the choosing for the same reasons that Christians choose Christianity, and others do the choosing for other reasons.

Like the majority of people following any religion, my choice was to follow the gods who Chose me. I belong to Them. My life, my personality, everything I am, revolves around serving and worshipping my gods. How I do so is determined by Them, much like the Abrahamic god has determined how He prefers to be revered.


2. There are a lot of ladies here who seem to have an aire of "empowerment" about them, if you will. Is Peopleism especially attractive to women because it frees them from what they view as an oppressive religion?
This doesn't apply to me or anyone else I know, though I am a woman. I don't know any single serious People who chose their religion just to get away from or be free of a different religion. My devotion to my gods is no less than any other Christian's is to their god, and is more than that of most Christians I know (the majority of Christians I know give lip service to their religion and nothing more). The god of the Christians has nothing to do with me. He is not my god. For me to go through the motions of following Him would be disrespectful to Him, and to my own gods. As I said, my religious beliefs revolve completely around my gods. The only purpose for my religion is for me to best worship and serve my gods. Nothing more. You can't free yourself from something that has no meaning to you. It never held you to begin with.

[Raydreamer]

WHAT??? I thought this was a Star Trek Fan site! You mean you guys are all pagan???

Well that explains alot! :lol:

[lasso]

Its not in any way as you described above.. Actually most pagans have set ideas about their beliefs. I suggest you take a look at this page to see what differences exist in pagan traditions concerning the defining of beliefs:

http://www.witchvox.com/xtrads.html

As to explain why you get so much replies of people telling that they have their own beliefs and their own ways of looking at deity and such; I think these persons are eclectic pagans. Which means they'll adjust their beliefs to their free will where they see fit. This is NOT in any way "THE" pagan method of looking at the divine and handling with it. It IS true that there are alot of eclectic pagans around, which explains the replies you've got.

Thanks for the link. :)

My questions are pretty much bouncing off the responses I get. I'm trying to give a general feedback to confirm/deny the impression I'm getting.

So, eclectic pagans are more free in their worship.

What is the opposite of an eclectic pagan? What would be the term? (I don't want to offend anyone, I'd like to know the terminology).

What percent of pagans on this board do you believe are eclectic?


I think this is a prejudice you could come across, reading the answers provided. Paganism is NOT in any way especially attractive to women. Men can feel equally attracted. Paganism does not free you from another religion. Pagans accept all other beliefs as existing and do not mind that they do exist. They believe that the path they follow is merely the one that is right for them; and no one has the right to tell a person wether or not a path is right for him/her but him/herself.

Do pagans believe there is absolute truth, or only relative truth?


May I ask, for what purpose do you wish to learn about paganism? Feel free to PM me if there's anything you need to know!

I'm about to graduate with a BA, and plan to do graduate studies in theology and philosophy. I have a friend I met who is pagan, and I was invited to check out this board and learn. So here I am! :)

Thanks for your responses.

[lasso]

WHAT??? I thought this was a Star Trek Fan site! You mean you guys are all pagan???

Well that explains alot! :lol:

ROTFL :lol: :veryweird

[lasso]

I noticed that someone changed "paganism" in one of my questions to "Peopleism." Is the term I used offensive to some? I do not want to hurt anyone's feelings, so let me know if I shouldn't use certain terms. :)

Thx

[Athena-Nadine]

I noticed that someone changed "Peopleism" in one of my questions to "Peopleism." Is the term I used offensive to some? I do not want to hurt anyone's feelings, so let me know if I shouldn't use certain terms. :)

Thx
No, I have the Mysticwicks at Work setting on this computer, and it does that by itself. :)

[lasso]

Ah, I get it. Thanks!

Glad to know I didn't disrespect anyone. :)

[DebLipp]

I wish that I had the time and energy to reply to each and every one of you individually, but please know that I appreciate every response that has been posted. Each has been helpful and informative. Thanks!

My mind is brimming with questions, so allow me a couple more.

1. Is it accurate to say that a main difference between paganism and Christianity is that in paganism you are the one defining your own beliefs, whereas in Christianity it is defined by the object of worship (God)? Or do pagan gods define how they want to be worshipped?



Paganism doesn't exist in contrast to Christianity, it is a religious group in its own right. I would say that some of the main differences between Christianity and Paganism are:

Immanent deity or uimmanent AND transcendent deity in Paganism vs. Transcendent only in Xtianity
A pleasure-embracing theology
Mon-sexist theology and practices


To distinguish theological differences between Christianity & Paganism is thorny, because both of these are very large groups containing multiple religious denominations with a wide range of beliefs. However, I feel these are the highlights. :)

2. There are a lot of ladies here who seem to have an aire of "empowerment" about them, if you will. Is paganism especially attractive to women because it frees them from what they view as an oppressive religion?

"An" oppressive religion? The vast majority of religions on the planet are limiting for women, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, and much Buddhism. I believe that many Pagan religions appeal to women who wish to be freed from sexist constraints, and also to men who wish to be equally freed. Pagan religions also appeal to GLBT people who are equally disgusted with oppression.

[HolographicJoe]

i've been making up my own religion my whole life and paganism fits best with my beliefs thus far.

[DixieWitch]

Because I fit it and it fits me...simple and straight.

[DixieWitch]

Why are you a pagan? see the first post I posted!

How did you "learn" about your religion? Reading, reading and more reading. Talking to others online, MysticWicks

How did you come to worship the way you do now? trial and error and talking from here and there

Does your belief system have a diety? If so, how did you learn about this diety? I'm Eclectic, do I don't have a specific belief system. And my dieties came to me. I learned all I do know right now from research online.

[Ben Trismegistus]

Very interesting. I know there are some Christians who probably feel such a separation, but the Bible doesn't really teach it. For instance, the apostle Paul said in Acts 17:27-28, "that they should seek God, in the hope that they might feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us, for "'In him we live and move and have our being'; as even some of your own poets have said, "'For we are indeed his offspring.'"
Interesting! I still think it's different though. God is not far, but he's still a separate individual. As you say "we are indeed his offspring", but it doesn't say that we are in fact God. Many pagan traditions do (more or less). In Christianity, the goal is to reach God. If you succeed in this life, your reward is to see God and Jesus in Heaven, to sit at their feet, etc. (I'm oversimplifying, I know). The goal in paganism is similar, but different in an important way. The goal is still to reach God, but that's done by recognizing and embracing the God within us, or rather, the piece of divinity within each of us that, when combined, is what we call God. Certain forms of Gnostic Christianity have this pantheistic view of God, but (as far as I know) mainstream Christianity still views God as a separate entity.

[goDez]

Thanks for the link. :)
np :)


What is the opposite of an eclectic pagan? What would be the term? (I don't want to offend anyone, I'd like to know the terminology).

I'm not sure if there is an oposite.. Non-eclectic perhaps? Following a tradition? Anyone who follows a set of basic beliefs (as seen on the page I gave, is not eclectic. But being eclectic itself is a trad just as well.


What percent of pagans on this board do you believe are eclectic?

No idea. I don't think it's really important, since everyone believes what they want to believe overhere and still we all "live happily together".. Since we share one thing; we're mostly all pagans.


Do pagans believe there is absolute truth, or only relative truth?

Relative.. Anybody has its own truth, and none of these truths have to be the same. As long as its right for the person following a certain truth, we are merely to accept it.

[Pol]

I am a pagan because I always have been. When I was a child, I was a pagan without even knowing there was such a thing.

[Blair]

What is the opposite of an eclectic pagan? What would be the term? (I don't want to offend anyone, I'd like to know the terminology).

The term would probably be traditional. Meaning the person follows a set tradition with specific rituals and beliefs. An eclectic takes from several traditions to make something unique

Do pagans believe there is absolute truth, or only relative truth?

I'm not sure I understand this one... perhaps due to my lack of knowledge of christian dogma and beliefs. But basically I don't believe in anything that is absolute... in an everchanging world nothing is absolute.

[DebLipp]

What is the opposite of an eclectic pagan? What would be the term? (I don't want to offend anyone, I'd like to know the terminology).There's no opposite. It's like asking what's the opposite of a Methodist. :D There's lots and lots of different kinds of Pagans. Some follow structured or semi-structured paths. Some follow a very free-form path which is called Eclecticism. Some build their own paths out of bits and pieces of others; once built, it is not necessarily free-form at all, but is also called Eclectic.

What percent of pagans on this board do you believe are eclectic?My sense is there are many more Eclectics here than in the Pagan community as a whole.

Do pagans believe there is absolute truth, or only relative truth?Most Pagans do not believe in absolute truth. I cannot say "Pagans" but I CAN say "most Pagans."

[indigo rain]

i'm pagan because i believe that divinity and the world we live in are not something we as humans can know for certain. it is a mystery. and paganism accepts and explores that mystery, instead of trying to make it fit into a set of rules and laws like the book religions try to do. why are there exceptions to these laws and rules, so many people ask? because god works in mysterious ways. gimme a break. paganism doesn't give you bull like that. it questions and probes and explores into the mysteries. i love that. i'm a curious person by nature, and it suites me.

[Aelfoak]

I am a pagan because I always have been. When I was a child, I was a pagan without even knowing there was such a thing.
Me too!

[equinox2]

lasso wrote:
Quote:
Do pagans believe there is absolute truth, or only relative truth?


Deblipp wrote: Most Pagans do not believe in absolute truth. I cannot say "Pagans" but I CAN say "most Pagans."

I’m Pagan and I believe in absolute truth. Here is an interesting thread sort of about it: http://67.15.36.42/mw/showthread.php?t=65309 - see my post #27 about absolute truth.

I think there is an absolute truth, but that we can’t be sure we know what it is. Thus the uncertainty is in our guess, not in the truth itself. In other words, I’m really pretty sure that water boils at 100 C at 1 atm pressure, but I’m only somewhat sure about my guess about life after death – though I do think that either my guess is wrong or it is right – that there is only one right answer.

For the really short answer about why I’m Pagan, see the large green text in my sig file below.

For the longer answer, go here: http://www-personal.engin.umich.edu/~leta/TREATISE/tjchap8.htm

For the longest answer, which includes by spritual history and my reasons for leaving the religion of my birth, start here:
http://www-personal.engin.umich.edu/~leta/TREATISE/tjchap1.htm

That should answer all the very good questions you asked in this thread. Feel free to PM me if you have more questions.

Anyway – I like this kind of thread more than the “why I’m not a…” type of thread. Both are interesting, but this one is more positive – and I have A LOT of positive feelings about my Naturalistic Paganism.

May the wind lift your spirits-

[lasso]

Interesting! I still think it's different though. God is not far, but he's still a separate individual. As you say "we are indeed his offspring", but it doesn't say that we are in fact God. Many pagan traditions do (more or less).

True, very true. And I see what you mean.


In Christianity, the goal is to reach God. If you succeed in this life, your reward is to see God and Jesus in Heaven, to sit at their feet, etc. (I'm oversimplifying, I know). The goal in paganism is similar, but different in an important way. The goal is still to reach God, but that's done by recognizing and embracing the God within us, or rather, the piece of divinity within each of us that, when combined, is what we call God.

Okay, I gotcha. :)

When one becomes a Christian (is "added to the church"), one becomes a member of the body of Christ. So we are in His protection. But, true enough, no Christian ever believes that s/he is God. So I see your distinction.


Certain forms of Gnostic Christianity have this pantheistic view of God, but (as far as I know) mainstream Christianity still views God as a separate entity.

Yes, I would agree.

The goal is still to reach God, but that's done by recognizing and embracing the God within us, or rather, the piece of divinity within each of us that, when combined, is what we call God.

Does a pagan look forward to an afterlife? And do you have to achieve some level of "recognization" of yourself as god to get there?

[Sleet]

I am pagan because I felt that neo-paganism provided a framework which supported several things I believe about the divine: It incorporates feminine qualities; it allows for a non-omnipotent diety/dieties; few if any pagan paths claim to be the One True Way; nature is where I find the divine.

I follow a goddess, have dedicated a small outdoor altar to her (which makes things interesting in the winter, I can tell you,) believe she looks out for me when she can - which isn't always, and I make no claims about knowing how other folks ought to pray. Neo-paganism supports this outlook.

[DebLipp]

When one becomes a Christian (is "added to the church"), one becomes a member of the body of Christ. So we are in His protection. But, true enough, no Christian ever believes that s/he is God. So I see your distinction.

In Christianity, it is generally considered a sin, if not a heresy, to consider yourself equal with or the same as God. To do so allows you to redefine sin (something Pagans are happy to do!).

Does a pagan look forward to an afterlife? And do you have to achieve some level of "recognization" of yourself as god to get there?
Depends on the Pagan. For Reconstructionists you would look to their specific beliefs about an afterlife. In Wicca, the belief is that we go to a "Summerland" to rest between lives, and then reincarnate. Everyone goes to the Summerland, there's no reward system such as heaven and hell.

[lasso]

I'm not sure I understand this one... perhaps due to my lack of knowledge of christian dogma and beliefs. But basically I don't believe in anything that is absolute... in an everchanging world nothing is absolute.

I mean like an absolute standard of right and wrong. :)

[Faeawyn]

I am Pagan because the Christians wouldn't have me :lol: :dancy:

[Sleet]

I mean like an absolute standard of right and wrong. :)

I think you'll find that Peoples are generally less concerned with finding a definition of "right" and "wrong" that's applicable in all situations, than some adherents to some other faiths are.

(Edited for clarity)

[Ben Trismegistus]

When one becomes a Christian (is "added to the church"), one becomes a member of the body of Christ. So we are in His protection. But, true enough, no Christian ever believes that s/he is God. So I see your distinction.
Excellent! Glad to help!

Does a pagan look forward to an afterlife? And do you have to achieve some level of "recognization" of yourself as god to get there?
Like Deb says, that depends on the pagan. Even within a tradition, pagans tend to have wildly different theories about the afterlife. The only thing most of us can agree on is that there IS an afterlife of some sort. Most that I know believe in reincarnation of some kind.

In my experience, pagans don't tend to dwell on the afterlife so much because we concentrate instead on making the most out of *this* life. And since we can't know for sure what the nature of the afterlife is until we die, I don't see much point in dwelling on it - I'll find out sooner or later. :)

As far as reaching a level of Inner God (to coin a phrase), that also differs. The Eastern theory many have adopted is that you continue to be reincarnated until you reach a certain spiritual level (a certain Inner God level, perhaps) at which point you reach Nirvana, or whatever. Personally, I don't think it's a test. I think that we've all got a set amount of Inner God within us, and that we have the option throughout life of discovering more and more of that. It helps us to be better people and more in tune with the universe.

Thanks for your thought-provoking questions!

[Ben Trismegistus]

[Note: I moved this thread from Just Talk to Just Pagan because I keep losing it.]

[silverstard]

[Note: I moved this thread from Just Talk to Just Pagan because I keep losing it.]

Well, that explians why I hadn't seen it before!

I've enjoyed reading everyone's responses, and I am really proud of this group for not allowing this thread to get into the minor differences between each person's beliefs. It's been kept general enough to encompass everyone, and yet still allows for differences. That's something that I have only seen everyonce in a while. :D

Thanks everyone for making this a great community!!

:huddle:

[goDez]

Does a pagan look forward to an afterlife? And do you have to achieve some level of "recognization" of yourself as god to get there?

I don't think there is a reason to look forward to the afterlife. In fact, we (i'm talking most (not all) Wiccans here...) believe that we pass on to a Summerland, where we are prepared for our next life. The "Afterlife" would be the next life, and it's nothing to look forward to. We just think of living life to the fullest. It's all balanced and in a great circle. Life-death-reincarnation-death, etc. Also we do believe that this circle goes on forever. It is not like you get greater karma because you live a life good, and that you sometimes hope to achieve saint-ness of any kind on reaching a certain amount of karma points, not having to live another life. But for us it's not a bad thing to be aware of all these lives we have to live.

On the other question: It seems that you think of pagan belief as a karma-containing belief, like Buddhism. (Again talking for most, not all, wiccan beliefs), ALL of us go to the Summerland, and live another life. Most of us don't believe in a karma system and most certainly you are not to be viewed as a God-form to enter the Summerland, since everyone is already consisting of Deity. I believe what I am trying to say has been expressed in a superb way on the burial ceremony of Doreen Valiente (http://www.doreenvaliente.com/main/biography/funeral2.htm):


"We meet here today in both sadness and joy. Sad because a chapter has closed, yet we are joyful because, by the closing a new chapter may begin. We meet to mark the passing of our beloved sister, Doreen Edith Valiente, for whom this incarnation is ended. We meet to commend her to the blessing of the God and Goddess, that she may rest, free from illusion or regret until the time shall come for her rebirth to this world. And knowing that this shall be so, we know too, that the sadness is nothing and that the joy is all."


also, this is of some interest:

From the Descent of the goddess
And he taught her all his mysteries and gave her the necklace which was the circle of rebirth. And she taught him the mysteries of the sacred cup, which is the cauldron of rebirth.
They loved and were one for there be three great mysteries in the life of man and magic controls them all. To fulfill love, you must return again at the same time and at the same place as the loved ones and you must meet, and know, and remember, and love them again.
But to be reborn you must die, and be made ready for a new body. And to die, you must be born and without love you may not be born. And our Goddess encircleth to love, and mirth, and happiness, and she guardeth and cherish her hidden children in life. And in death she teaches the way to her communion and even in this world she teacheth them the mysteries of the magic circle, which is placed between the worlds of men and the realm of the mighty ones.


Hope to have helped you..

[goDez]

Also what Ben said is more generally true for all pagans, indeed. I just stated beliefs from one specific point of view ;)