Paganism for Beginners :An Introduction to Pagan Beliefs

By Sebastian Berg

Paganism is a subject that can divide people. Some believe it is an ancient religion that involves devil worship and sacrificial rites that involve naked sacrifices in the forest. Other people believe it is all about love and happiness; people were singing Kumbaya as they scatter flowers before them. The truth is, as with most religions and beliefs, there are many layers to Paganism and the people who follow in the Pagan ways.
If you are interested in finding out about their beliefs and ceremonies, then this is the book for you. Dispel the myths and learn the truth behind this fascinating subject. You may feel the call to join the Pagan community, or you may just be curious to find out what Paganism is all about. No matter what your reason, you are sure to be entertained and informed with this informative book on Paganism.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Creek Ridge Publishing
• Release date: May 26, 2020
• ISBN: 9781393582014

Book preview

Introduction

Paganism is a subject that can divide people. Some believe it is an ancient religion that involves devil worship and sacrificial rites that involve naked sacrifices in the forest. Other people believe it is all about love and happiness; people were singing Kumbaya as they scatter flowers before them. The truth is, as with most religions and beliefs, there are many layers to Paganism and the people who follow in the Pagan ways.

If you are interested in finding out about their beliefs and ceremonies, then this is the book for you. Dispel the myths and learn the truth behind this fascinating subject. You may feel the call to join the Pagan community, or you may just be curious to find out what Paganism is all about. No matter what your reason, you are sure to be entertained and informed with this informative book on Paganism.

Chapter 1: An Introduction to Paganism

If you are reading this book, you have decided to become a Pagan, or you have realized that the Pagan ethos is appealing to your beliefs. Maybe you have experienced a Pagan festival and decided that you want to learn more. The reasoning behind your decision is irrelevant, but your desire to learn more is applaudable.

The trouble with most of the information about Paganism is it can be condescending or assumes the reader has some basic knowledge. The correct definition of Paganism is as simple as one sentence. If you believe you are a Pagan, then you are one. There are no higher beings to tell you how to believe or how to practice your craft. The higher beings in Paganism are there to guide and inspire you.

Being a Pagan is more about your state of mind than a fixed creed. It is an umbrella term for various traditions, including Shinto, Shamanism, Druidry, and Wicca, to name but a handful. It is also possible to be a Pagan without identifying with another tradition.

If you believe you have a connection with nature that is both spiritual and whole, then you have the foundations of a Pagan mindset. If you view all the elements, the stars, the animals, and all plant life as part of your extended family, you have Pagan values. If you believe that all humans are equal and should be treated with respect, then you believe in Pagan fundamentals.

As you study and learn about Paganism, you will encounter certain terms that may prove confusing. Wicca, witchcraft, and Paganism can be clumped together and treated as the same, and sometimes that is correct. However, strictly speaking, they are not the same.

As a beginner, you may feel it is important to distinguish between the three, but as you learn more about Paganism, the natural differences will make themselves known. For now, it is more important to focus on the overall earth-based spirituality that is embraced by Pagans, Wicca, and Witches alike.

Paganism is about leading a life that is filled with good intent and becoming a spiritual being who can communicate with the Earth. Wicca teaches some important moral insights, so as an introduction, we will look at some of the deep philosophical insights they promote.

The Wiccan Rede

And it harms none, do what ye will.

This is a deceptively short sentence that says volumes about the Wiccan way of life. If you have ever heard the sentence Do unto others as you would have them do unto you, then you probably accredited it with the Bible. The Wiccan version adds to the general meaning with additional instruction, do what ye will. Or to put it in a more modern context, do whatever you want as long as it doesn't harm anyone.

This rede originated as a reply to the quite vigorous attempts of the Christian Church to quell Pagan believers. Their intolerances with witchcraft and all