What is Paganism?

Many people believe that paganism is a religion - it is not - it is better described as a collection of beliefs or paths that fall outside of the standard mainstream religions like Christianity, Judaism and Islam.

The majority of Pagans believe in and/or practice magic. But then, every religion has its own magical tradition (in Christianity magic is practiced by saints and faith-healers and the result is called a miracle). The majority of Pagans also revere the earth and see themselves as a part of a natural cycle.

However, there are many different paths in paganism, and although you could describe druidism as a pagan belief system, not all pagans are druids.

For myself, the major difference is that in organized religion you have to follow a strict path laid down by someone else. For example, Jesus, Mohammed or Buddha. In these religions there is only one path to God. Most pagans believe that a more personal path to the deity or source is possible, and that you can find and follow your own path. That there is no wrong way, if it feels right and works for you.

There is also in many organized religions an idea that you have to communicate with god through a third party such as a priest. Most pagans communicate with their concept of the deity directly.

My personal belief system is based on my own experiences so I believe and have faith in things that are relevant to my worldview and yes that has evolved, as I have got older and experienced more.

Most pagans are theologians, and have researched many areas of religion and mystical belief in order to develop their own paths.

A final note: Paganism has nothing to do with satanism. Most pagan beliefs stem from what we know of pre-Christian religions. Satanism is a Christian concept - you would have to believe in a Christian or Judaic worldview and belief system to accept satanism as a concept. ie. The story of creation from the bible, and Christian concepts of heaven and hell. Many pagans do not believe in satan and they definately do not worship him in any form. Early when Christianity was being spread, Christians believed that anyone who did not worship their God, was in fact worshipping satan. Exodus 20:3 The First Commandment "Worship no god but me".