Paganism and the Search for Truth and Proof
Paganism. When asked what it is, most people will not be able to give you an accurate definition. In fact, in preparation for this article, I asked several random people to define “paganism” for me. Most people honestly admitted that they did not know. Those that did know admitted they knew because they had dabbled in the earth religions.
I went to the dictionary to find the definition of “pagan,” and found it to be defined as one who is not a Christian, Muslim, or Jew, especially a worshiper of a polytheistic religion, one who has no religion, or a non-Christian (The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition). I have to admit, this was not quite the answer I sought.
Witches in our midst
Whether you are aware of it or not Paganism is very much alive today as a religion. Perhaps you might recognize it under a different name? Witchcraft. Does that sound too harsh? How about Wicca?
Wicca is the name you might recognize best. I was almost entirely ignorant of Wicca until eleventh grade, when a good friend of mine informed me during an in-depth discussion about religion that she was a pagan. This girl was from a good Christian family, so my first question was how her parents felt about this decision. They didn’t mind, she claimed. It’s not like she was walking away from the church. It was, she claimed, entirely possible to follow paganism and be a Christian at the same time.
If so, my only remaining question is, why does a secular, non-Christian dictionary define “pagan” as simply “one who is not a Christian”?
My contact with any practicing witches was cut off until my first year at university, when I met a young man on the bus. He lived on my street and took the same bus as me every morning. He is a witch, actively involved in the practice of the religion Wicca. Like my friend from high school, he refers to himself as a Pagan, in the religious, if not, moral sense of the word. It was through this friend that I discovered how active witchcraft is today.
When you first read the word “witch” perhaps the first mental image is that of an old hag and her cauldron. Thinking about teenagers practicing witchcraft, one first tends to think about angsty Goths dressed in near-shredded black clothes, with black finger nails and black lipstick. But Goth is a subculture, not a religion. One does not need to be a witch to be a Goth than one needs to be a Christian to attend church. One decision may influence the other, but they can be mutually exclusive. On the contrary, both my friends who were Pagans dressed quite normal, though the girlfriend from high school admittedly leaned towards long flowing skirts and ribbons.
Modern Day Halloween
In today’s world, there is an undeniable lure towards spiritualism. What is the root of this lure?
It is now October, and my friend from university is preparing for Halloween. Among practicing pagans, Druids and Wiccans, it is said that that there are two days in the Celtic calendar when the veil between the spirit world and the physical one is thinner. Halloween is one of these two nights, as it is the midpoint of the Fall and Winter equinoxes. Because the veil between the spirit and the physical world is believed to be thinnest on this night, the Druids and Celts would communicate with the dead through seances. Modern Wiccans still engage in this practice.
The question remains, what is the pull of Wicca? Why are so many people drawn to Wicca?
A recent study finds that only 12 per cent of Canada’s population of more than 30 million is atheistic. The remaining 82 per cent believed either in God or in some “higher power.” In the United States this number is even lower, as only 0.3 per cent of the population is entirely atheistic. These studies suggest that people gravitate towards believing in some kind of supernatural power, rather than denying the spiritual aspect of existence. It takes considerably more work for the average person to disbelieve in God than it does to believe in Him. I think this coincides with the Biblical teaching that God created humankind with a spirit, and humankind is aware of this.
So if humankind is inclined to spirituality, why and how do people choose the kind of spiritual practices they follow? Why do people chose witchcraft and paganism? Is truth found in this form of religion?
The Truth About Paganism
It is said that the best deceptions are made believable when mixed with a grain of truth. There is a tiny grain of truth in Paganism, and this, mixed with the sweetness of the lie, makes for a palatable religion that is gaining increased popularity.
What’s the truth?
The truth is that there is a spiritual realm to the world. It is an undeniable fact. However, despite their inner knowledge of this fact, people want proof. They want to see and touch and feel and know. They want to know the future, and so some turn to Tarot cards and astrology. They want to know the past and the fate of their deceased loved ones, and so turn to spiritualism and psychics. They see the beauty of nature and so instead of worshipping the God who created nature, they worship nature itself, calling her a goddess. The followers of this religion, aware of their own spirit, have made their own spirit out to be “like a god.”
What’s the lie?
The religion of Wicca is such a palatable and beautiful deception. It begins with certain basics which even cause some Christians to do a double take and consider it.
Part of the “Pledge of Pagan Spiritualism”, the sort of “believer’s creed” held by Wiccans reads as follows:
May I always remain strong and committed to my Spiritual ideals in the face of adversity and negativity. May the Force of my Inner Spirit ground out all malevolence directed my way and transform it into positivity. May my Inner Light shine so strongly that malevolent forces can not even approach my sphere of existence.
There is a basic acknowledgement of malevolent forces. There is an understanding of Good and Evil, common to all of mankind. There is an awareness of dark forces. There is, however, no concept of how sin originally began. There is no acceptance of humankind’s imperfections and our inability to save ourselves.
The pull of Wicca, Paganism, and Spiritualism as a whole is the search for solid proof of something most people already know to be true. We do have a spirit that longs for a spiritual connection with God. God made us that way. But God also made us to have connection with Him through Jesus Christ. And that is the difference. Paganism, Spiritualism and Wicca deny the power and authority of Jesus Christ over their lives. Their way of finding spiritual connection and fulfillment involves using their own human wisdom and strength to find answers by invoking dark powers, which are antithetical to Jesus Christ.
In a letter written to the early Christians in the Greek merchant city of Corinth, around 50 A.D., a man named Paul observed that God used the foolish things of the world to shame the wise and the weak things to shame the strong, because His “foolishness” is wiser than our wisdom and His “weakness” stronger than our strength. He did this so that no one can boast about their own strength or wisdom before Him.
In Paganism there is a basic search for truth and proof of this truth. However, they try to prove God without ever looking His way. There are many tangible ways in which God proves Himself to His people. Nature is one of these ways. However, there are times when God calls us to simple faith, without total exhaustive proof. They will not believe in Him because they have not seen Him. But blessed, Jesus says, are those who have NOT seen and yet believe.
What about you? What is it that you are looking for? One can spend a whole lifetime searching for perfect proof. One can create proof to satisfy a desire. One can also look at the proof that exists and accept it as it is. Instead of worshipping nature, worship Jesus Christ, the God who created nature.
Instead of seeking self-enlightenment and self-fulfillment through dark knowledge and powers, worship Jesus Christ the God who died for humankind so that we could find fulfillment in Him. In doing this, in finding faith in the love and forgiveness that comes through Jesus Christ can one can be satisfied.
Br Gregory, I have removed your comments from this site because they were antagonistic, vulgar and unnecessarily hurtful. You are most welcome to post your thoughts here as long as they conform to our policies for civil conversation. There are many ways to express your disagreement with another position without resorting to verbal intimidation.
So DW are there limits to what a person might practice in order for them to be acceted by God? Is relationship with Him completely open-ended and any path will work? How does that fit with Jesus declaration, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no one comes to God except through Me.” (John 14:6)
Let me first begin with that I think of myself as Christian. I believe in God and his Son, and the sacrifice that Jesus made for me. What I don’t believe is that I have to go into some structure, built by mankind to hear some person rant at me on how to live my life due to their interpretation of the Bible. I don’t believe I need to support an organization that uses it’s wealth and power to coerce the world to believe as they do or suffer for eternity in some hell. I do believe that what is between God, Jesus and I is going to be good enough when it’s my time to pay the piper so to speak. After all, God and Jesus can read my heart to its truest truth and there is no person on earth who can do that.
Having stated my core beliefs, allow me to ask one simple question. What singular religion has started the most wars, disagreed with the most brethern, and killed the most people, based on leading the “heathen pagans” or “bsrbarians” to the “truth and love of God and Jesus”? Does this sound like a religion of love and acceptance? And thus when I’m asked “How can you call yourself a Christian when you think like this?” I simiply answer “Because I believe in God and Jesus, not some mankind constructed structure that proclaims itsself as the only way to heaven.”
Practice what you will is what I say. In the end, God will be the judge of us all. It’s not for me to condemn your beliefs. And lest ye harm none, do as thou wilt.
God bless and blessed be.
I thought this was the most perfect explanation I have ever read in my life. It was accurate and was surrounded by thaught, I can tell you recognise a belief of Jesus. It is not my place to say he is not real but it sort of crushed my fascination of how accurate this was. I am a druid pagan and yes we go by the earth had our communities have spread into indaviduals. But I still thank you for writing this as hopefully now you have nocked it into the thaughtless people who we pagans really are x Kara
That’s an interesting point MrsMissi, what has convinced you that the important part of a person’s belief system is what they do with it and how it affects the quality of life of others? There certainly are many others who believe that the significant part of belief is the ‘higher power’ and one’s relationship with that ‘higher power’. What convinced you otherwise?
I was somewhat shocked and entirely disappointed to read this article and see it go from being a potentially accurate and well researched article to yet another agenda pushing, bible thumping, pagan bashing waste of time. Why is it that people can’t simply regard the things that they don’t know or understand as simply that..? Something that they don’t know and may never understand. I refuse to try influencing the way others think or feel regardless of how I feel about the way they percieve things. If it doesn’t directly affect me it doesn’t matter now does it? I will state where I stand in the midst of all this confusion. We all choose our own path. Countless opportunities and temptations assault each of our senses every single day and a lesson to be learned lies within every choice we make. Its the beauty and power of free will. With great privilage comes great responsibility yes? To harm or abuse another is to do it to yourself. There are simply too many relevant points to touch on but as a final point to ponder, it doesn’t really matter what u call your ‘higher power’. It doesn’t matter what irrelevant mythology u tack onto your spiritual connection. What does matter is what u decide to do with it and how it affects the quality of life for those around you…and as a result, yourself. So, be good to yourself and others. That is just a small part of the beginning, but its a pretty good starting point for something incredibly beautiful. Blessed be ^_^
Hi DarkRaven, you have really given out a lot of ideas here about you views of paganism. I was under the impression that the writing you refer to is a fictional work created (or borrowed by) H.P. Lovecraft. What have you found that establishes the historical authenticity of these writings and their connection to the Sumerians?
In regards to your allegations that God is a sinner I have to disagree with you. The Bible is clear that Mary was a virgin prior to giving birth to Jesus. God did not rape or have intercourse with her but instead conceived within her womb the baby Jesus. God is the giver of all life so He does not need to have intercourse in order to create life.
Also you accuse Jesus of a double standard where He sits in judgement but also tells His followers not to judge. When a judge presides over a case in court he/she is given the authority and responsibility to make a judgement. Jesus has the authority and role of Judge since He is One who has made all things and whose character is the standard for what is moral. There is no better one to take that role and it is necessary for Him to carry out that role to maintain order in all things. So there is no double standard here at all.
The beautiful part of all of this is not only Jesus our Judge but He has also become the One who has taken our sentence upon Himself. We are the ones who have rebelled against Him. He has judged our guilt, has proclaimed the sentence of death and then He offered Himself in our place so that the penalty could be paid for and we in turn receive His perfection as our own. We are now free to be in relationship with God without our sin creating a barrier between Him and us. Jesus offers that to all people but many have chosen to reject His sacrifice on their behalf and choose to try and pay the penalty for their sins on their own, or try to prove that they are not sinners at all. God does not force His love and forgiveness on anyone and while He continues to offer this free gift He allows people to choose not to receive it. But to anyone who does receive and accept Jesus’ sacrifice on their behalf are made pure, and adopted into the family of God.
DarkRaven, He offers you this opportunity. Yes He will judge you but if you have accepted Jesus’ death as the payment for your sins the judgement will be “Child of God–holy and blameless”. Doesn’t that sound like Good News?!
i can agree with a lot of what you are all saying but you are all missing something the bible was written over five thousand years ago. there are books that talk about Wicca that date 3000 years before the bible. i own part of one of those books. the Necronomicon tells you of a story of that no one has yet been able to understand. in this story a man finds a statue with strange markings that glow red in the moon light. he freaks out and is follow by these creatures that look like skeletons in cloaks. he takes one down out of fear and when it hits the ground its nothing but a pile green mush. he then speaks of a serpent quite like the one in the bible. if you are all really wanting to understand what Wicca is i suggest that you further your research. i believe there not one god but several not one god controls everything. if you want to know the truth about Wicca your answers lie deep within buried city Babylon deep below the sands of the Nile and in the water sunken city of Atlantis. you need look more towards the Semarians they have been the first recorded people on this earth. there is no book that can explain why these two cities disappeared. the only thing that has been figure out is the fact that their technology was to far advanced for that time period. the Sumerians are the key to finding the truth of the Wicca religion. we have not yet been able to translate the Sumerian language because man is afraid of what they might find if they were to explore the two once great cities. i say we explore them and see what we find the necronomicon was written during the time of the Sumerians. we have barely tapped the surface of the Sumerian language it goes much deep than you all think science was and is only the beginning of finding the answers to your questions. please feel free to ask me any question you wish about what i have written here. if the bible is so true then then why do we have bones of underneath our feet that are not explained in the bible. these dinosaurs were did they come from? we have found these bones to tell us that there was something before man. man wrote the bible on false lies and truth. the bible says the world end more than once. how can one believe in a god that made a virgin women pregnant, does this not fall under adultery. this god in the bible is a sinner just as we are he committed adultery by having sex with another mans wife. at least that’s the way i see it. along with that Jesus himself sinned himself by judging others through out the bible Jesus and God judge people for what they have done or said. the bible does say thou shall not judge. God and Jesus are sinners themselves so why believe in them. my gods dont judge me they help me with my problems and are always there to answer my questions about life. the bible is a lie it has no truth. i must tell you this at one time there were to great cities one built on sea and the other above in skies so that our true gods could look down upon us and protect us. think about this really hard people before you believe in a sinful god.
I appreciate your time in explaining your beliefs as a Wiccan Anastasia. It is always interesting to see the similarities that there are but even more curious is where there are differences. I think your questions about Christianity highlight some of those differences. I will do my best to respond to them as I can.
1)”Why would God reward or condemn an IMMORTAL soul for that which is done in a MORTAL lifetime?” — First, let me remind you of something that I had written earlier: our eternal destiny is not written by what we have done or not done, but rather it is in whom we are trusting: Jesus or ourselves. But why our sin against God results in eternal consequences is because our rebellion is against an infinite God. The severity of our sin is proportional to the value of the one to whom we have sinned against. I was just noticing that the front grill of my van is full of insects that I hit as I was driving down the highway. Nobody really takes notice of that. Now if I were to hit someone’s pet with my van that would be a more tragic offence and I could be held responsible for careless driving or cruelty to animals depending on the circumstances. A big part of that is because we value the lives of dogs and cats more than we value the lives of mosquitos and moths. The stakes rise significantly if I were to strike a human with my van. When I sin against God I am sinning against an infinitely valuable being and therefore my sin has infinite consequences which entail being separated from God for all of eternity. Jesus’ death on my behalf pays an infinite price because He is of infinite value.
In the Bible there is a description of the life of David. At one point we are told of his affair with a lady named Bathsheba. He got her pregnant while her husband Uriah was away at war. David tried to cover it up but eventually conspired to have Uriah sent to the front and then isolated by his comrades so that he would die at the hands of the enemy. When David finally was faced with his sin he cried out to God, “Against You alone, O God, have I sinned.” Now it is not true that he had only sinned against God but he is reflecting the reality of how our sin against an infinite God is so awful that everything else pales in comparison.
2) “Why are we given immortal souls if we are to only have a single life?”–God created humanity to live in perfect relationship with Him for all of eternity. The existence of death is the result of humanities sin against God. The Bible says that the result of sin is death. It is safe to presume then that if humanity did not sin there would be no death. Unfortunately our first father and mother–Adam and Eve–chose to be independent of God and create their own destiny and their own morality. The result of that was the entrance of sin into history and death into the existence of every human. All the rest of us have inherited that nature of sin from our parents and the result is we all are destined for death. Fortunately God loved us so much that He did not abandon us to that fate but has provided a means for us to put aside that sinful nature and receive Jesus perfect nature and no longer be destined for death.
3) “Why did your religion require a God (Jesus) to lay down his life so that sin would be forgiven?”–Just to be clear, it is not the religion that requires the death of Jesus but it is God Himself. I know it is a subtle difference but I feel like it is important. As I stated earlier, our sin against an infinitely valuable God requires an infinite penalty to be paid. The only one who could pay that is my eternal separation from God or God’s own sacrifice on my behalf.
4) I won’t quote your whole question… you know what it is :) It is not the sin that someone has committed against another person that makes their action infinitely punishable (even though you are right, some people’s sins are far more heinous than others’) but it is that they have turned their back on God and decided to go their own way, create their own destiny, define their own morality in opposition to what God has created them for. It is like the Mona Lisa saying that she would prefer being a Welcome Mat rather than the priceless work of art that Da Vinci created her to be. “But that’s silly!” you say, “A painting is an inanimate object. It can’t decide what it should or should not be used for!” That is exactly my point: God is so much more qualified and worthy to determine our life than we are it is silly to even think that we should or could. He is the one who has made us and therefore He is the only one who should determine what we are here for. So our rebellion against His purposes and morality is the sin that has disrespected God and destined us to pay an infinite penalty.
I think that highlights one of the differences between all other religions/worldviews and Christianity: Jesus has helped us understand the severity of our actions/attitudes of rebellion against God. It is clear that no matter how many lives we might have we could never make up for our rebellion against Him. And that it is only through His infinite sacrifice that we have any hope of life as God has purposed for us.
Does that make sense Anastasia?
Jamie-
I’ve just realized that I’d completely skipped over some questions of yours. They were actually from before the Leroy person started his posts, so I will answer them now. I will ask you to remember that while these answers do pertain to most of the Wiccans I’ve met (including my own family), they do not represent what ALL of us believe. Much like the fact that both Jehovah Witness’ and Lutherans are Christians but have different views, so too are certain sects of Wiccans and/or Pagans.
It seems your questions are trying to get to the root of our idea of karma, the Three Fold Law, sin and possibly reincarnation. These are all basic beliefs in Wicca, though some approach them differently than I. Here is what I’ve been taught and believe;
I do not believe in the concept of Original Sin. Rather than thinking of every child newly born as inherently full of sin, I believe that as a human they will eventually commit sins. As a living being with full sentience, there is no way around this…you are correct, we all make mistakes or have something to hide. However, my faith dictates that it is OUR responsibility to make things right, lest the Three Fold Law summon karma to do it for us.
In case you didn’t know, the Three Fold Law is basically the Wiccan version of karma, an admittedly Eastern concept. It states that whatever you put out, be it words/actions/spells/prayers, will come back to you three times. I’ve had this one to three ratio explained as “Not only does the initial intent come back, but so too the consequences”. This gives us Wiccans both the incentive to do good, and pause ourselves if we were to do bad. It should be noted that neither the Three Fold Law nor the Rede forbid protection of you or yours…we are not pacifist “hippies”, we simply don’t swing the first fist. This also explains why there are Wiccans in the military: we believe in actively protecting what is our kin and country.
As for what the Lady and Lord think of us, well…they know that we are mere children. As our Creators, and the Creators of everything we see and do not see, they are meant to be worshipped and honored and loved, much as a child should act towards a loving and respected parent. When we die, we come before Them and are questioned about our actions, be they good or bad. Afterwards our souls are sent to the Summerlands for rest, relaxation and reflection. It is here our immortal souls take pause and think about what they must do, learn or rectify in the next life. There is no standard amount of time that this occurs in…every experience is different as every soul is different. The important thing to remember is that the Goddess and God love us, their children, just as they love all that they’ve created. It saddens Them when we do wrong, but that is why they allow us the gift of life ever lasting and the more dangerous gift of free will. We are blessed indeed to have Creators who give us many chances to do what is right, and to rectify our own wrongs!
This is where I wish to ask you a question, Jamie. I understand that Christians do not believe in reincarnation. From what I remember, there is Heaven and Hell (possibly Limbo, too). My questions are thus;
- Why would God reward or condemn an IMMORTAL soul for that which is done in a MORTAL lifetime?
- Why are we given immortal souls if we are to only have a single life?
- Why did your religion require a God (Jesus) to lay down his life so that sin would be forgiven?
- How is it that people of your religion believe that a Pagan shaman living in Africa who devotes his life to caring for his clan with wisdom, medicine, spiritual guidance and advisement will go to Hell for not accepting the words of Christian missionaries…but the child killer on Death Row can “accept Jesus” in the last two hours of his life and be sent to Heaven? I realize that Christians don’t believe in karma, but to believe that all of one’s horrible sins can be completely washed away because of the sacrifice of a man – God seems more like giving people a free ticket to Heaven in spite of the acts they perform during life. Yes, we all sin…but some sins are more easily forgivable than others as I see it.
If you do not know the answers, I am fine with either waiting or having someone else respond. Once again, I look forward to your conversation and a chance to share beliefs.
Jamie,
First of all, let me apologize for misspelling your name before…that was careless of me, but I hope you’ll overlook it as I’m on a smartphone and it’s tough to go back and forth between sections.
Now, onto your questions.
I see that I should have been more specific/clear…that is my fault. While Wicca is definitely a branch of neo paganism, it has much older roots. The Lord and Lady have not waited til now to reveal themselves…they were pictured/honored many years before any of the “major” religions of nowadays. In many parts of the world, archaeologists have found paintings/statues/carvings that reference a large hipped and full breasted Goddess and and strong, sometimes stag horned God. Obviously these are images from the most ancient beginnings of society, and was probably a very simplistic religion, mostly based on the importance of Fertility, Strength and Family/Clan.
As anyone who has a working knowledge of “mythology” knows, these two Deities became more fragmented as time went on, turning into various pantheons like those worshipped by the Greeks, Native Americans/Central Americans, Nordic cultures, and many African and Asian cultures. These religions survived up until a few centuries before the Dark/Middle Ages, when the religions of Islam/Judaism/Christianity truly began to take full root.
This is not to say that the myth of The Burning Times is correct…in fact, many Wiccans will be quick to remind newer practitioners that the times before, during, and immediately after the Inquisition were mainly between various sects of the Big Three religions, and did not involve many actual Pagans at all. That’s not to say that the Pagan Gods and Goddesses disappeared completely, just that any worship of them would be put strongly into the background of any family still honoring them.
Thus, while the religion known as Wicca is relatively new, it does draw on very old/respectable beliefs. This is why many of us prefer the term Neo Pagan, as it is a modern day revival of the worship of either the ancient pantheons of Gods and Goddesses, or (as I personally believe) the Lady and Lord. The majority of our religious beliefs are passed on orally nowadays especially in those families that are Hereditary Pagans…but more and more books are being written on the subject (for better or worse!).
I hope I’ve been a bit more clear, if not succinct. Please let me know any other questions you might have. I greatly enjoy our discussions!
Thank you, Jaime.
I greatly appreciate your most recent comment. I enjoy a good
religious/philosophical discussion, and have always been pleased to find
it here (for as long as I’ve posted, at least). Truthfully, I am more.
confused by Leroy’s remarks…they are certainly not the verses I
*usually* have quoted at me, that’s for sure!
In regards to your questions, I will be quite happy to answer them
to the best of my abilities, but will have to delay. Right now I am actually
on vacation, and am using my smartphone to comment. When I get back on Wednesday
I will strive to answer your very well thought out and intelligent questions.
I hope you will have a nice week.
Leroy, I think Anastasia has been pretty clear that she has never nor known any other Wiccan to have participated in the activities being described in the verses you quoted. You need to be careful not to make unsubstantiated accusations against people. This is a forum where people are able to share their experiences without fear of being maligned or falsely accused.
Anastasia, you mentioned that Wicca has only existed in the last century. What do you base your beliefs on? Is there a revealed knowledge from the Lord and Lady? Is that a written communication or passed on through an oral tradition? Why have the Lord and Lady waited until now in human history to reveal themselves and establish Wiccan belief?
Dear Anastasia, there some thing that we born-again Christians are prev too that you are not, hences…
1 Corinthians 2:12
New King James Version (NKJV)
12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God. I ask this of you Anastasia, find a Christian church today or tomorrow and go with a sincerer heart ask the Jesus into your heart and give him week, ask him to explain the really hard question make contact with some one at the church or google you question in ( what does the bible say about) and talk to God every day for that one week and you start to understand. If you are not happy and have found an inner peace like I have, walk away what do you have to loose? God bless your heart Anastasia! Leroy M in the land of peace!
Leroy,
I’m sorry, but I still don’t understand what you mean.
You say to “look up what each of these acts mean, both spiritually and physically. Let’s take the Burning One’s Children as an example.
Now, physically I think this means the literal burning of your offspring to appease imaginary gods who need sacrifice. This is simply murder for a superstitious reason, and is a terrible act.
Symbolically, I don’t know how this is different. You are still killing your daughter or son to worship a false deity who is most likely a demon. The Lord and Lady, who are the eternal Creators of our world do NOT ask for unnecessary pain, death or bloodshed.
Also, please remember that while all Wiccans are Pagan, not all Pagans are Wicccan. There are Dianics, Zorastrians, Shamanists, Celtic/Drudic, Wiccans, Agnostics, Hindus, Taoists, Buddhists and so many other religions that any Judeo/Christian/Islamic follower would call “Pagan”. Some of these religions are very old indeed, older even than the Jewish ffaith. While in previous eras (much like with Judaism) these religions may have required some form of sacrifice, most no longer do, and certainly not of any human sacrifice.
My personal faith is Wiccan, which is admittedly a type of Pagan. However, we are less than a century old, still have some items to work on, and we are not as well respected as the Big Three religions. Despite this, I will reiterate that neither I, nor any other Wiccans that I’ve known have even tried, much less completed/desired to perform any of the things you describe above.
Please do let me know who you’ve met that has HONESTLY tried to disturb the spirits, burned their children, told actual fortunes or heard/seen omens. This person most likely has an undiagnosed mental disorder, and should be carefully helped by a licensed medical practioner.
Dear Anastasia and Mary Elizabeth
This for Anastasia; pls look up each of this acts, what they represent physical and symbolically and then tell that pagans do not practice any of them! I had a step daughter who was a Wicca and saw first hand what went on. to burns his son or his daughter as an offering, anyone who practices divination or tells fortunes or interprets omens, or a sorcerer or a charmer or a medium or a necromancer or one who inquires of the dead.
Mary Elizabeth; if you were a potter and made the most beautiful figurine and it sold millions all over the world, but one day you found out that a small village in south America was worshiping one of your figurines, how would you feel you were the creator of this item. Now God has created the whole universe why would you worship a creation instead of the creator? It is illogical at best from a none believer’s persons of View. God loves us all and just wants the same in return, love him with all your heart, mind and body plus obey him.
Okay…but none of those acts are performed by modern day Pagans, and have never been done by Wiccans. I know that I’ve never seen omens, sacrificed anyone, looked for the future or tried to speak to the dead. These things are not a basic part of Wicca. They seem like heideous acts!
Deuteronomy 18:9-14 ESV / 12 helpful votes, sorry I did not make it clear too you all!
When you come into the land that the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not learn to follow the abominable practices of those nations. There shall not be found among you anyone who burns his son or his daughter as an offering, anyone who practices divination or tells fortunes or interprets omens, or a sorcerer or a charmer or a medium or a necromancer or one who inquires of the dead, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord. And because of these abominations the Lord your God is driving them out before you. You shall be blameless before the Lord your God, …
1 Corinthians 2:14
New International Version (NIV)
14 The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit. Let the Spirit Of JESUS in your heart and you will understand!
Thank you, Claire.
I am a bit confused by Leroy’s comments too.
I am a Wiccan, but I am not a cultist OR a prostitute. I follow a legitimate and federally accepted religion, have a life philosophy that is very tolerant/caring, and am in a stable, loving relationship. I’m not offended by your comment, Leroy, but I’ll admit I don’t understand it…
Leroy,
I am a bit baffled by your comment. I don’t see any reference to paganism at all in the verse that you quoted so I am really not sure how you got from that to the idea that God sees followers of Paganism as prostitutes.
Someone more learned than I could probably explain this better, but my understanding is that the cult prostitutes referred to in this verse were actual prostitutes whose services were used as a part of the cult itself. It’s not a euphemism, but rather an actual role. Someone who follows Paganism is definitely not following the God of the Christian Bible, and the Bible does have a lot to say about that, but I do not see anywhere that God calls them prostitutes.
Sorry for not paying attention to my Grammar!
Deuteronomy 23:17 ESV / 3 helpful votes
“None of the daughters of Israel shall be a cult prostitute, and none of the sons of Israel shall be a cult prostitute.
So if you are a practicing pagan you are considered a False God Prostitute in the eyes of the One and only living God!( Jesus) , but the great part he love you to for me made you just like the rest of us so he only hate the Sin Pagan act!
Thanks Anastasia. I appreciate your clarification between those who use Wicca as an excuse to do what they want and those like yourself who are Wiccans because of their care for the Earth and all of its inhabitants.
I feel compelled, though, to point out a misunderstanding you have about what makes a person right with God. It sounds like Wiccans believe that the Lord and Lady accept them because of the way that they live. Most other religions have some similar attitude in that if a person lives well, worships well, achieves a certain level of enlightenment or follows through with the proper ritual, they are accepted by their God or welcomed into a higher level of existence.
The difference that distinguishes Christianity from those other belief systems is that God says that breaking even one of His commands is the same as breaking them all. If we are to be accepted by God there can be zero sin in our lives. That includes not only the things that we do but also the thoughts that we have and things that we don’t do that we should do. It is an impossible standard because it is the standard that reflects the character of God. The Bible says that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. For us to come to the feet of such a perfect one as He, we can bring no darkness with us at all.
Now I can tell that you are a good person full of love and concern for others both human and otherwise. But I am sure that there are things in your life that you are not proud of. I would guess that even now there are thoughts that come into your head that if anybody else knew they would be shocked. I can say that because the Bible says that no one is righteous, not one person. I can also guess at that because I know my own mind and some of the things that I wouldn’t want anybody else to know.
So what do we do? If we need to be perfect in order to be accepted by God but there is no way that any of us could reach that perfection, how is anybody ever going to be accepted by God? The answer to that is in Jesus Christ. God, in His perfect wisdom, knew that humanity could never, on their own, meet His standard of perfection. So because He loved us so much and has created us to be in relationship with Him, He planned a way that our lack of perfection could be dealt with. He sent His Son, Jesus, to come and show us God’s perfection and what He wants for all of us. So Jesus left His home in Heaven and became a human just like all of us. He lived His life perfectly, never wavering from His perfect God-character. He then allowed Himself to be killed as a sacrifice for the payment of our imperfection. So Jesus, who was perfect in every way, took on our imperfection and became imperfect so that we could receive from Him His perfection. It is an amazing transaction of character that could only be accomplished by one who was both human (so He could stand in our place) and God (so that He could offer forgiveness to all).
Jesus now offers to the whole world that opportunity to receive His perfection. Everyone has the opportunity to give up their own attempt at being accepted by God (whether by doing good things or following the right rituals or whatever) and accepting His gift of forgiveness alone. No Christian is made right with God by the good things that they do. We are all made right with God because we stopped trying on our own and accepted Jesus as our replacement. Now because we have been set free from the guilt of our imperfections there is a desire to live well before God and other people. We also have God with us directing us on how to live that perfect life. We often are able to follow His direction but sometimes we lose our focus and get into trouble trying to do things on our own. But God has still forgiven us and we never lose that status as perfect because it was Jesus who already paid the price for it. It is a humbling thing to realize what God has done for me and it is a powerful motivation for me to live up to that gift that He has given me.
So Anastasia, when you say “if I am wrong and end up at the feet of the Christian God, I know that he will know me by my acts, and judge me accordingly” you are right, but if there is any imperfection in you at all you will separated from Him forever. But if you have accepted the perfection of Jesus as your own then you will be welcomed to life with Him because there will be no imperfection evident at all. That is the guaranteed promise that is given to everyone who is a follower of Jesus. Jesus said, “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life; no one comes to God except through me.” I know that can seem like an arrogant statement and it would be unless it is true. If it is true than it is a beautifully loving statement because it is showing the world the only path by which they can be accepted by God.
How does Wicca deal with the imperfections in people? Are the good things in a person balanced against the bad so that whichever side is bigger wins out? How much good does one need to outweigh the hurtful, selfish things said, done and thought? Is the Lord and Lady able to tolerate imperfections?
Dear Andrew,
Thank you for your response, I apologize for my taking so long to do likewise. Let me try to address your concerns and assumptions fairly.
I was taught Christianity very strictly in my younger years. I once was able to quote scripture, and went to church 5 times a week (the church was actually part of the same building as my Catholic school, so we went for noon Mass everyday). What I had meant about different types of Christianity is this; there are many denominations, each with a slightly different way of interpreting the Bible…Lutherans, Born Agains, Catholics, Episcopalians, Jehovah Witness, Baptist, and so on. As someone who has attended many of these churches/halls, I can honestly say they are all Christian in their beliefs, but also do not agree on some minute details of exactly how Christ and God should be worshipped. I did not mean that they were wrong or had not accepted Jesus.
As for Mohammad and Abraham, yes I am aware of the trouble in the Middle East, as is just about anyone today. However, I stand by my assertion that both men were relatively good people, despite their sins. I know that I have not been perfect thusfar in life, but I try my hardest to be a good person. I imagine that you do the same, Andrew. The point you make about the Koran could also be made for the Bible though…after all, it took TWO sides to participate in the Crusades. I think it is important to separate the religious text from those who follow it, and sometimes corrupt the original message.
Also, I had only mentioned my lifestyle because so many people wrongly believe that Wiccans/Pagans use our “no rules/no sin” religion to get away with bad behavior. I’ve seen so many documentaries from supposed “ex witches” who claim they spoke to demons, did every drug under the sun, have free rein of their sexuality and drank themselves to a stupor every week…in addition to other self destructive things. This is a disgusting way to live one’s life, and certainly NOT the Wiccan way. Our Rede says “An’ ye harm none, do as ye will”. The complete lack of respect for one’s soul, body, family and relationships shown by these “former Wiccans” is nothing less than an atrocious rebellion for any sort of spiritual authority, Christian, Wiccan or otherwise. Thus, I felt the need to share that I am a real practitioner, not some addle brained, rebellious teenager.
I am 26 years old now. I have been a worshiper of the Lord and Lady since I was 13. One day, I will die and I believe my soul will find rest and time for contemplation in the Summerlands before being reincarnated again. However, if I am wrong and end up at the feet of the Christian God, I know that he will know me by my acts, and judge me accordingly. I am kind to all people, I give to charities, I help to rehabilitate his animal children, and I do not lie or steal. I try to live the best, most giving way that I can, and accept Christians, Jews, Muslims, etc as my sisters and brothers. If I am to be condemned for simply including the Goddess’s name alongside His when I give praise and thanks for Their creations…then so be it. I believe that the Gods/God would be more compassionate and understanding of Their mortal children though.
@Anastasia people mistakenly believe that being “raised christian” means attending church or mass on a weekly basis as no one is raised as Christian but as a human being. I have learned a long time ago not to try to debate someone on their beliefs however I highly doubt that you have studied scripture to try to dispute that it is not truth. Many people mistakenly believe oh Jesus was a good person like Mohammad and Abraham however your mistaken in your beliefs that both Mohammad and Abraham were not good they were sinners. Abraham did not follow Gods plan and took matters into his own hands which has resulted in conflict of the middle east as he had a child through his servant. Mohammad wrote the Koran which many Muslims interpret differently which has caused a lot of violence.
Your mistaken in believing that there are many definitions of Christianity there is only one which is a person who has asked Christ to forgive them of there sins and to allow the Holy Spirit to work in there lives. Christ was raised from the dead and was witnessed by 100′s of people of being alive and returned to heaven. All other religion founders are unable to make this claim the difference between all other so called “religions” is that it was created by man and man has the will power to follow the teachings of the religion.
The difference which you will never understand is found in John 14: 16 ” And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit,who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. ” That is what the difference is you can eat as many vegetables and live a healthy life style one day your time on earth will end and when it does and you stand before Christ you will never be able to say I did know about you. God Bless.
Very interesting conversations here.
If I may put in my own 2 cents, I was raised as a Christian in my younger years as well. I initially attended a Jewish preschool but then attended a Catholic private school til 4th grade. At that point, I went to public school, and I was raised basically Catholic still (on the weekend visitation with my Dad, we went to his “born again” church). During this time, I also went to Temple with my friend who was Jewish and to Halll with another friend who was Jehovah Witness. Needless to say, I’ve seen a LOT of versions of Christianity, even some Protestant ones I didn’t mention here, but went to services to support my friends.
All that changed when I was 13, and I met my friend of 2 years, Evan. He may not have gone to school with me long, but he made quite the impact! Everyone in his family was Pagan, and as I learned more abouut his religion, I realized I was too. Of every religion I’d learned about…I finally found one that gave me light in darkness, that actually felt like I was coming home at last. Not Judaism, Catholicism, Baptist, Lutheran, Jehovah Witness or even “born again”. No, I was Pagan!
Now, I am 26 and am still Pagan. I believe in Jesus, Mohammad and Abraham as real men who tried to do good in the world. I believe and pray to the Goddess and God, but respect Pagans who give names/mythologies to their deities. I believe that I am in charge of my life…there is no “devil made me do it”, and I take full responsibility for all of my actions. I pray everyday in thanks for my good physical/spiritual/financial health. I’ve been ovo lacto vegetarian for 12 years, and feel awesome mentally and spiritually. I don’t do seances, own Ouija boards, hear voices, convert people or any of the strange/weird stuff that gets featured on Christian sites so much…in fact, if I had a friend who said she was Pagan but was experiencing visions or was afraid, I’d help her get real psychiatric help! I work full time, am single and have an “addiction” to board/card games like Settlers of Catan or Fluxx.
In short, I’m an average person who goes to work, plays games, volunteers at animal shelters, loves her friends and family…and just happens to have found her True Path in Paganism rather than Judaism or Christianity. Other religions are all well and fine. Some of my best friends are Christians/Jews…but, I know from experience that those paths are not for me. I completely respect those who love their religions so long as they realize I love mine just as much!
Merry meet, and merry part.
Joel,
I was brought up as a Protestant. I then switched to an assembly of god church and found that that wasn’t much better. I switched to paganism because a nature religion just kind of made sense to me. I understand the seasons and it just made sense to me that it would be based upon that. Thanking the gods for having an easy transition into the seasons. Odin is indeed thors father. And yes Thor is the one from the avengers movie. He carries a hammer of justice. Of course the cape and other accessories are false but the idea is pretty accurate. I switched from Christianity to paganism because the elements of Christianity didn’t make sense to me and their ideas were different from mine. In order to get to the pagan heaven one must obey mother nature. You just have to be good to the earth and all it’s beings and you will be granted a place in the pagan heaven
Wow I know many people of many different religions but I have never met someone who quite believes the same things you do. Please excuse my ignorance but is this the same Odin that is Thor’s dad in mythology, as in like from Thor the movie. Obviously, I realize a movie is not likely to have an accurate depiction of him but I am wondering if there is a connection between the two.
As someone who is really fascinated by why people choose the religions they do, you have peaked my interest and I am really wondering what made this religion more meaningful or appealing than Christianity?
I am also really interested what your Christian upbrining was. I know friends who have walked away from Christianity because of past experience. I certainly would not want to paint you with the broad brush of others, so this is why I am interested in what lead you in searching for a more meaningful religion.
Also one final question, I am really interested on how one can get to pagan heaven?
Thanks for enriching my life and expanding my horizons,
Joel
We are best known as eclectic pagans. An eclectic pagan is one that takes their beliefs from many pagan traditions.
Joel,
Of course I can share my beliefs. What I think is confusing for many is the concept of paganism. Paganism is not one religion. It’s a term meaning many religions. So under paganism you have Wicca, odinism, Celtic, Norse, Germanic, and many others. My beliefs are actually a mixture of odinism, Germanic neo-paganism,and Norse neo-paganism. ( neo-paganism is just a fancy way of saying modern pagans)I was not born a into a pagan religion… I was actually born a Christian but found that most elements of Christianity didn’t match my beliefs or just didn’t make much sense to me. So about 2 years ago I made the switch to paganism. Pagans do call themselves pagans and it does get a little confusing because under that there’s many other religions. When I was learning about my religion I was told to pick one god or goddess as my main higher power and then the other gods/goddesses fall behind that. I chose a god named Odin from the Norse paganism. Each god or goddess is different, they mean different things and do different things. Odin for instance protects one who goes out into battle. Battle could be any form of war or dangerous environment so myself having a law enforcement career in the making chose him as a main higher power. Our religion is based on nature. We thank mother nature for what she gives us everyday in hopes we will end up in the pagan heaven. Our year runs by the seasons. There’s a festival for every change of the season. It’s probably way more confusing for someone who isn’t practicing such as yourself but any pagan you ask would most likely be more than happy to help explain things.
Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts Bri.
“Yet most world religions don’t like Christians because they’re bigots who say they treat everyone with love and respect.”
You make a very good point here Bri. It is very sad that there are many people who misrepresent Christianity and give people like yourselves a bitter taste for Christianity. I promise you not all Christians are like this. I once felt exactly like you did but then I discovered true Christians who loved and accepted me for who I was. This lead me to meet the person of Jesus Christ and my life has never been the same since.
I used to think I knew alot about world religions and Christianity but I was wrong. I humbly admit there are many things I still do not know. I have really good friends who are atheists and of many different religions and I aboslutely love learning what they believe and sharing ideas back and forth. I would really like to hear more about what you believe and your life story, if you would ever like to share it.
Once again thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and I hope to hear from you in the future.
I find it funny that as soon as we pagans even say one word Christians are so quick to try and shoot us down. The person that said Christians stole everything from pagans is 100% correct. For instance Halloween is actually all hallows day or Samhain ( pronounced sowen) for us. The ancient pagans would pray to the gods and goddesses so they would survive the winter with a good harvest. They gave small cakes to children who begged for food. Christians turned that right around, made it about candy and shoved the devil into it. It has also been proven that shortly after your Jesus was executed millions of pagans were murdered because Christians saw pagans as standing in their way. That’s right even thousands of years ago such hatred caused Christians to kill millions of pagans because they wanted to be the superior religion. Do you ever notice the only religion that has a problem with paganism is Christianity? Yet most world religions don’t like Christians because they’re bigots who say they treat everyone with love and respect yet turn around and say I can’t live a certain way because a bunch of people back in 12 b.c. Sat down and made up a story about a talking snake and a bush that magically caught itself on fire. Tell me how it’s possible for a dead human being to magically come back to life after 3 days of being dead? With no medical attention? I think not. So before you judge our religion and tell us our religion doesn’t make sense examine yours. Because all it sounds like is a bunch of crap made up by people who drank just a little too much wine.
How has the author misunderstood Paganism Kelly? What corrections would you make?
I really hate when Christians try to talk about and explain something they really have no idea about.
Ghaladh,
I really like what Jamie said in an earlier comment on this thread, that ‘Christians speak with certainty because that is the way that Jesus Christ spoke. It was He who said, “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father [God] except through me.” (John 14:6) For a follower of Jesus who accepts His claim to being Emmanuel (which means “God with us”) it stands to reason that he/she will have a lot of confidence in the uniqueness of their faith. ‘ So it’s not about being more mentally flexible at all but about being certain. You are right that we will have to agree to disagree.
Heidi:
What you say can applied to your God as well. Can you ask to your God to make it rain right now? Honestly I have a intimate relationships with my Gods, as I am sure you have with your God. I respect your opinions: what I would like to see, is more mental flexibility amongst the believer of the monotheistic religions: as long as people do like you did (stating to be part of the only true religion…), there will never be a constructive exchange of ideas. We can only agree that we disagree.
look there telling the truth chirstans has one only powerful GOD ask your gods to make it rain right now they cant hear you speak to them they wont listen,they have eyes but they cant see,they have mouth but they cant speak,they have a body but they cant move,they have ears but they cant listen they just do nothing!!!the GOD who created you was named JESUS he is the son of god!!!I will pray for you GOD BLESS YOU—————–i’m a Christan—just saying not get you mad.
I know this is an old article but, yet, is important to correct the wrong information about paganism anytime, everywhere.
1) Paganism and Wicca are not synonyms. A Wiccan is considered a Pagan, but a Pagan is not necessarily a Wiccan. Not all of the Pagans do practice witchcraft.
2) Paganism do not only worship the creation. We believe that behind the creation there are Gods. No, not YOUR all-mighty God. OUR Gods. Period. You can disregard our way, but you can’t give for granted that your God is true while ours are not. You have no more proofs about your God that how I have about mines.
3) You can’t fairly explain Paganism through the narrow-minded vision of a monotheist. As long as you believe your God is the only true one, do not spread your lies about us, like you be the holder of the Ultimate Truth. Is your right to be so delusional, no one can prevent that, but please, respect our dignity of individual thinkers and state your opinions as such, not as absolute truth.
4) Although I appreciate the noble initiatives taken by the members of the monotheistic cults (charities and such), I despise people that want to impose their vision to the “infidels”. Pagans are in first line when it comes to protect the environment and promote peace. We are not a bunch of power-hungry witches that meddle with satanic powers. Satan, indeed, is a Christian invention.
5) There is good and there is evil, and a Pagan is usually called to make his/her own choices about that, expecting consequences after is actions. We are not mindless evil-doers. We take full responsibility of our actions, without hiding behind a nondescript external evil-influence.
6) Jesus might be really existed, but there are no proofs that he was the miracle-maker that your holy book describes.
7) May the Gods bless you with health and love, despite of your narrow-mindedness.
Ailora, Christians speak with certainty because that is the way that Jesus Christ spoke. It was He who said, “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father [God] except through me.” (John 14:6) For a follower of Jesus who accepts His claim to being Emmanuel (which means “God with us”) it stands to reason that he/she will have a lot of confidence in the uniqueness of their faith.
For me, not only am I convinced because of the claims of Jesus but because of the way that the Bible describes humanity. When Paul writes in the Bible about the struggle within his own heart over not doing the things he knows he should do and doing the things he knows he shouldn’t do (Romans 7:14-25), I recognize myself in that. The Bible also describes the problem of humanity that we want to be independent of authority and be free to establish our own standards and purpose in life. As I look at the world around me and the conflicts and troubles that we have, that really fits.
What secures it for me though is the unique way that Jesus transforms that human condition. All other religions and world views that I have looked at put the onus on humanity to make the change. Sometimes that is through setting up rules to govern actions, or rituals that appease God, or attaining a level of enlightenment that transcends the human condition. Jesus’ unique solution is that He, as God, could only provide an escape from that condition we all are slaves to. He had to leave His life in Heaven and humble Himself to become one of us, only to then die to pay the penalty for our rebellious nature against God (our desire to be independent and self-determined). He was the solution, not anything we do or say. The Bible says that He who knew no sin [Jesus] became sin so that we who had only known sin and rebellion could be transformed into His perfection. It is an amazing story of self-sacrifice for the ones that He loves.
Now I have to admit Ailora, I don’t the details of what you believe as a pagan. Does your worldview describe well the human condition? What is the solution that your faith describes for the resolution of that condition? I agree with you that in order for something to be real there needs to be an inherent feeling of confirmation, but I think there needs to be a logical foundation for your worldview as well. We see all kinds of sincere people who feel that they are right, who in reality are very misguided. That’s why I love talking to people about what they believe because I want to make sure I am not misguided.
Would you describe how your pagan faith makes sense to you? What are the things that attracted you to that world view?
I’m amazed by the Christian’s ability to speak with such surety and fortitude. When it’s a crap shoot. You’ve no more proof of your religion and God than I do of mine. I take that back, I feel it inherently. I’ve always been a spiritual person and I feel no ‘darkness’ or ‘evil’. I turned to Paganism because of my disappointment in the typical Christian. So self righteous, so willing to sing on high about how good they are, but not very willing to live it. And, so very destructive towards Mother Earth and her creatures. Good Christians, like any good person, would not live so callously and would realize that ALL life is sacred. I would not hurt another living creature. My truth is that all life is sacred. So tell me, does my spirituality originate in darkness???
Mary Elizabeth, you say that nothing in Christianity is original, but I choose to believe in the Word of God that states the following: “35Or who has first given God anything that he might be paid back or that he could claim a recompense?
36For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. [For all things originate with Him and come from Him; all things live through Him, and all things center in and tend to consummate and to end in Him.] To Him be glory forever! Amen (so be it).” [Romans 11:35-36, Amplified]
I understand that you do not believe in the God of the Bible, and that you see it as a religion of hatred, but I see it differently. I view it as a relationship with Jesus, and He says, “18Little children, let us not love [merely] in theory or in speech but in deed and in truth (in practice and in sincerity).
19By this we shall come to know (perceive, recognize, and understand) that we are of the Truth, and can reassure (quiet, conciliate, and pacify) our hearts in His presence,
20Whenever our hearts in [tormenting] self-accusation make us feel guilty and condemn us. [For we are in God's hands.] For He is above and greater than our consciences (our hearts), and He knows (perceives and understands) everything [nothing is hidden from Him].[1 John 3:18-20, Amplified]
He also says in John 8:32: “And you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free.” I believe that the Truth is Jesus Christ and He is Love. I know Him and I am free from bondage to the life of fear and anxiety and hatred that I once lived. And I am grateful. I am grateful that I found the Hope in Christ Jesus that I could not find in any other source. I pray others who are searching find Him too.
This whole page is preaching.
It’s totally great and amazing to have such a strong relationship with your savior Jesus! He was a real man, and a great one at that. No doubt about it. And it’s absolutely gorgeous when somebody has that much faith, trust me. I was raised Pagan, but I go to Youth Group, and I have a blast. People there know how I stand on relationships with deities. I don’t want to be preached to. I want to be taught actual historical facts. None of this where “Believe that Jesus died for your sins. He loves you.” There is no actual proof.
I can supply you with 50 simple facts of it all. —> http://godisimaginary.com/i6.htm
Paganism isn’t about “calling the dark forces,” because we simply don’t. It’s THAT easy. We worship Mother Nature, and do the best we can to prolong her. We absolutely do not worship any entity called/known as “Satan” or “The Devil” because we don’t believe in any such person or thing. Our religion was not taught to us by fallen angels themselves, that’s utterly ridiculous. Christianity is a snow ball that rolled over a dozen or so pagan religions. It’s true.
“Nothing in Christianity is original. The pre-Christian God Mithras – called the Son of God and the Light of the World – was born on December 25, died, was buried in a rock tomb, and then resurrected in three days. By the way, December 25 is also the birthday or Osiris, Adonis, and Dionysus. The newborn Krishna was presented with gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Even Christianity’s weekly holy day was stolen from the pagans.”
“The vestiges of pagan religion in Christian symbology are undeniable. Egyptian sun disks became the halos of Catholic saints. Pictograms of Isis nursing her miraculously conceived son Horus became the blueprint for our modern images of the Virgin Mary nursing Baby Jesus. And virtually all the elements of the Catholic ritual – the miter, the altar, the doxology, and communion, the act of “God-eating” – were taken directly from earlier pagan mystery religions.”
I am so sick and tired of people saying that all Pagans and Wiccan’s do is sacrifice humans, worship the devil, learn from fallen angels, and play with dark forces. That would be Satanism, my friends and local fellowships. Not Paganism. Do a little more research, this is getting a little irritating.
I know I came on to this site, and it’s my fault for reading and all that. Don’t post this stuff on the PUBLIC internet, then.
Thank you, and farewell. And if by all means, Blessed be!
Cady, thank you for your comments! As I noted in one of the comments below, defining paganism, wicca, etc is quite difficult because there is no universally accepted scriptures or guidelines for what it means. Thank you for taking the time to explain certain distinctions that the author may not have made clear or wasn’t aware of.
It was interesting to hear that you journeyed from a Christian upbringing into Wicca. What were the reasons that convinced you that Christianity is untrue but Wicca is?
Your comments brought to mind the story of Marcia Montenegro, another lady who was raised in the church but eventually left, studied astrology and other beliefs generally associated with paganism and “new age” worldviews. She was heavily involved in this world for many years and it even became her occupation. You can read her story here: Marcia’s Story: A Strange but True Spiritual Journey. I won’t give away what happens but it may surprise you!
Pagans! I know they exist because my mother liked to read her fortune all the time, everyday in the house. One time when i went to Cuba for a mission trip. I saw the other side of Cuba in pagan worship, as you entered this restaurant she was there with her statue and drink for you to take. God had me go around her and when she was not there I went into the restaurant without her knowing it. She could read my spirit from what she believed and my Spirit from whom I believe. God did that for me!
if anyone doesn’t believe in God look at creation, even then on how it got made, there has to be a God, otherwise who or what made the beautiful trees especially when they are in blosoms
Pagans would do well to read The Lost Book of Enoch. Their religion was taught to them by fallen angels themselves.
anonymous, I’m sorry to hear your experience of Christianity has been that is “spurns hatred.” There is no doubt that often unfortunately happens, and when it does, the people who engage in those actions are living contrary to what they claim to believe. It’s sad, but it’s not a particularly Christian problem, it’s more of a human problem: There are hypocrites in every religion, it’s just that there are sometimes more Christians around to use as obvious targets.
Re paganism being “dark”, as another commenter pointed out, it probably depends somewhat on how a person who is pagan defines their religion. Unlike Christianity there is no official pagan scriptures that defines what it means, and so certain beliefs may indeed be classified as “dark”.
There can be truth in any religion, as the author of this article says, but obviously the author differs in their appraisal of paganism’s truthfulness. They believe paganism (in its broadest sense) is untrue and therefore “dark”. Since you believe that Christianity “spurns hatred” it sounds like you believe it is likewise untrue and might even call it “dark”. That’s your certainly right to do so, but also my right to disagree.
I would suggest that there is actually good evidence that the resurrection is not merely myth but actually did happen. When you call it myth, what do you mean? And how did you come to that conclusion?
Do more research. Nothing about paganism is “dark”, it’s beautiful and light. It gives me something that is a lot more fulfilling than an organized religion that spurns hatred for those that don’t believe or are gay/lesbian or stray from the path of perfection that the Bible asks for, and bases their religion on a myth about a man that rose from the grave three days after being executed. Just because they may have different names does not mean that there is no god, nor does it mean that it isn’t the same exact thing. A lot of holiday traditions and even some holidays are based around pagan ones, which are practiced by Christians everywhere, so it’s hard to escape from paganism in a religion that hates it so much.
yea, and some believe goddess created, not god. so…get your story str8. We do worship who created, and who is. Ask 5 pagans, get 20 answers. Don’t ask one, and think you know everything.
Pagans do worship the GOd that created Nature. Until you become one, don;t claim to know what one thinks. Uniformed people make the workd a terribhle place to live in.