What is Pagan Spirituality?
Pagan spirituality is often feared and frequently misunderstood, being both fused and confused with the practice of Satanism and the worship of the devil. The devil, however is a purely Christian concept portrayed as an evil force who acts against God, tempting mere mortals away from the light and into the dark realms.
In truth, Paganism in its many forms acknowledges a Divine presence within nature. This presence can be masculine and feminine, benevolent and destructive, and is acknowledged and celebrated throughout the year with beautiful seasonal festivals.
Is Paganism the same as witchcraft?
The simple answer is, ‘no’.
The term 'Paganism' is an umbrella term, beneath which many paths and traditions lie. These may include:
- Druidry
- Northern or Norse traditions: e.g. Odinism, Asatru or Vanatru
- Shamanism
- Goddess worship or Women’s traditions: e.g Dianic movement in honour of the Goddess Diana
- God worship or Men’s traditions: e.g. worship of the horned God, Cernunnos
- An eclectic or lone path of one’s own choosing
- Wicca or witchcraft
Witchcraft is, therefore, one of several paths available under the umbrella of Paganism. It is often said that all witches are Pagan but not all Pagans are witches.
How do I know which Pagan path to choose?
This is a matter for each individual to decide.
The books, courses and workshops mentioned on this site provide you with a starting point and an understanding of some of the elements you may encounter along the way such as Pagan festivals, moon phases, the natural elements, aspects of healing and magical practices. If, however, you feel drawn to explore a particular path, then I suggest you read reliable material on your chosen subject and perhaps join the Pagan Federation for further information and guidance. (
www.paganfed.org)
I already follow a mainstream religion but am intrigued by the Pagan path, will this interest cause conflict and will I be asked to do things which will go against my current beliefs?
The Pagan path is one of personal choice and free will, therefore no one will ask or make you do anything against your will.
You can still follow an orthodox religious path but give thanks for the changing seasons and the gifts each one brings as the year turns.
The Pagan ethic states:
'If it harms none, do what thou wilt.’
Will I change as a result of becoming a Pagan?
Following any spiritual path should call for the individual to turn their thoughts inward and consider the way in which they live their life.
This can, of course, be both painful and difficult and the Pagan path is no different. It calls for contemplation, meditation and reflection on who we are and what is important to us. It asks us to count our blessings and to appreciate both the masculine and feminine forces of nature, without which there would be no balance or harmony.
Most importantly it asks us to become conscious or aware. Aware of our place in the scheme of things, aware of our affect on each other and the planet on which we live and aware of the direction in which we travel along the road of life.
Visit my blog at
www.mrsdarleyspaganwhispers.blogspot.com and share your experiences and thoughts with other like minded people on Pagan matters, the turn of the seasonal wheel, poetry, prose and your own celebrations. Follow me on Twitter at
www.twitter.com/mrsdarleyspagan