The United States of America is not a nation of one religion. Christians, Muslims, Jews, Hindus, Unitarian Universalists, Mormons, and Buddhists all exist and flourish here, among many other religions and spiritual paths. Among these faiths is something referred to by many as “paganism.” This umbrella term means different things to different people, but for the purpose of this editorial we will define paganism as the practice of ancient Indigenous European religions originating before the time of Christ. Some pagans choose to practice their religions as ancient peoples would have while others do things their own way.
Culturally, paganism varies. Pagan paths can come from Celtic, Roman, Greek, Norse, and Egyptian lineages. Theologies vary as well, from monotheism similar to the Christian view of god to dualism (God is male and female), pantheism (God is nature and the universe), and panentheism (God exists in all things). Pagans may also believe that the ultimate being or force cannot be understood or defined, but that spirits, forces, or gods exist and influence our daily lives as well. These gods may include those of classical Greek and Roman mythology as well as those from every ancient European culture. They may also be free of definition, viewed as spirits or forces as opposed to given names. These beings may be avatars of the same god, personifications of energies like love, or exist of their own thought and personality.
Pagans are often faced with doubt and mockery when asked about their beliefs. It seems that to most people, the gods of ancient myth (Zeus for instance) or ones of which they have not heard are merely characters in fictional epics or fantasy beings that were recently made up. This is an unfortunate stance and is likely the result of our educational system, one that teaches mythology to children but separates it from historical importance by relegating it to separate classes and the realm of fiction. Likewise, those with no knowledge of pagan religions may approach believers with the question, “do you really believe your gods exist?”
The exceedingly short response to this inquiry is, of course, “yes.” But to completely understand what that means requires greater conversation from the specific individual you’re conversing with. “I worship Zeus,” for instnace, does not thoroughly explain how the pagan providing the statement does so or what that worship means.
Some pagans base their belief on personal experience. Yes, a personal relationship with “the gods” or their “patron god.” The misinformed or judgemental may imagine a personal relationship with one’s god as being a product of ill mental health; hearing voices, seeing things, and the like. This, however, is not how many pagans would describe their personal experiences.
The most common form of interaction between gods and humans as described to me is one of “feeling” or “instinct.” A strong compulsion or a sudden “bad feeling” are perfect examples. A person may also hear a whisper or voice providing them with decision-making advice. Many Christians have similar experiences; both are valid and neither should be doubted or argued unless the advice given to the individual breaks the law or harms others. The only difference is the believer’s view of the source. To a Christian, this voice could be God, an angel, or Saint. To a pagan, this voice could be identified as their patron god Zeus, a spirit, or totem guide.
I believe that this is the relationship that most pagans expect when beginning to study their chosen pagan path. It is not, however, something that everyone will be able to experience. This lack of personal experience may be a result of not paying attention, failing to see signs, listen to one’s instincts, or not responding to feedback when it’s given. If someone is giving you advice and you consistently don’t follow it, how long will they continue to be there for you?
Like all religions, paganism requires faith and a love of whomever is being revered.
Pagans who lack “personal experience,” however, often still have faith. Religion brings joy to nearly everyone who participates in it, whether they realize it at first or not. It is important to belong to a religion that fulfills you, and paganism is fulfilling to many people. The act of revereing nature, worshipping ancient gods, and performing rituals that promote a sense of self-respect and empowerment are parts of the core religious structure of most forms of paganism. These things cannot be found in some religions, and those who seek such things will find much inspiration in them. The faith they have in their gods develops from the satisfaction and confidence they gain from their religion.
My defense of pagan belief systems is not unrealistic and I find it important to express my understanding. I realize that to many other religions, pagans worship false idols and are therefore condemned. As stated previously, though, Americans are entitled to believe and worship in whatever way they see fit. It is a right protected by law and that’s all there is to it.
Tolerance does not mean changing one’s beliefs to accept that those of other religions are also valid. If a person believes that pagan gods are false they are fully entitled to believe such a thing. To tolerate another belief system simply means to accept that they believe something that you do not. It is a relationship that more adhered to religions maintain with one another, and minority religions should be given the same seat at the theological table.
