There are numerous traditions under the generic classification of Paganism.
Whilst they all share a common thread, their individual practices and beliefs
may differ greatly. Most traditions emphasise the equality of men and women.
However, some traditions are more specifically geared towards exploring either
the male, or the female, mysteries.
Modern Paganism is a
form of spirituality that seeks harmony with nature, resulting in a holistic way
of experiencing and understanding the world. Often classed as a “nature
religion”, Paganism honours the earth and the body rather than a transcendental
spirit. The physical body and all of nature are seen as inherently divine and
part of a larger whole, commonly seen to consist of interconnecting energies.
Western magical practices offer a kaleidoscope of paths, all with the same basic
reverence for nature in common.
Pagans today seek a
relationship with nature and conduct rituals to create a place where it is
possible to be aware of the wider connecting pattern of the universe.
Increasingly, modern Pagans are looking to ritual sites in nature itself, such
as ancient monuments. These are seen to be locations of healing, divination, and
the conducting of life rites such as handfastings (weddings).
A brief summary of the Pagan traditions most commonly practiced today
follows. Please note: this is not an exhaustive list, simply a basic guide to
the more popular paths within the religion. Omission of any particular path does
not imply it is non-Pagan, or unacceptable as a Pagan religion. The Internet
carries discussion groups for most of the traditions listed here.
Asatru/Norse Paganism
With its origin in northern Europe, this tradition is practiced today by
those who feel and affinity with their Nordic and Teutonic ancestors, and who
wish to study the Sagas, Eddas and Runes. Asatru and Norse Paganism encourages a
sense of responsibility and spiritual growth, sometimes within the context of
noble warrior traditions.
Celtic Paganism
This is native to the Celtic and Gaelic races, and is practiced by a great
many people in Australia today, who feel a strong connection to their
Celtic-Gaelic roots. The essence and the teachings of the Celtic religion were
encoded into the ancient legends, which were transmitted orally by the bards to
the people. Modern Celtic Pagans are seeking to re-introduce this wealth of myth
and knowledge into our modern world. (With thanks to Clan Dalriada)
Dianic Witchcraft
A tradition which honours and celebrates the feminine aspects of divinity.
Women are accorded great respect, and rituals are often designed to empower
women with a sense of their own inherent spirituality and value.
Druidry
The modern tradition of Druidry emphasises artistic skills such as poetry and
music, and often encourages its members to undertake a study programme in these,
and other more academic, disciplines. Most modern Druids follow a seasonal cycle
of celebrations.
Environmental Paganism
Many Pagans today do not follow a specific tradition, but actively work to
save the Earth from further desecration, and honour the land upon which we live
as a sacred representation of the Earth Mother. This style of religion often has
no formal rites or methods of worship, but encourages each individual to honour
divinity by caring for the Earth and all its creatures.
Ethnic Paganism
Many modern Pagan traditions are based upon the practices of a particular
ethnic group, some modern, some ancient. In this category would come traditions
such as Hellenic, Roman or Egyptian Paganism, as well as modern traditions
continued by their ethnic groups; for example, voodoo, Santeria and Native
American Indian traditions. This would also include the native Pagan traditions
of the Pacific, and Australia's Aboriginal people. Unfortunately a great many
myths and traditions, and tribal lore, has been lost as a result of the
uncompromising practices of missionaries and settlers.
Shamanism
Shamanism utilises skills and practices such as travelling in the spirit
realms, tree lore, herb lore, and the use of totem animals. The tribal shaman
was often responsible for spiritual matters within the tribe, and also for
matters connected with birth, death and healing. Shamans are able to speak with
the tribal ancestors and gain knowledge for the use of the tribe. These same
practices are used in non-tribal societies today by many modern Pagan men and
women.
Wicca
Wicca is an ancient religion that honours love of life and nature. The word
'Wicca' can be defined as 'the wise' or 'to bend', from a much older word 'Wicce'.
The Wicce believe in duality and the laws of karma, celebrating life through the
seasons and the old Pagan season festivals.
This is a modern revival of the ancient folkloric and magical practices of
Europe. Wiccans generally perceive divinity in the form of a Goddess and a God,
who have several different aspects. Most Wiccans celebrate eight Festivals each
year, all Wiccan holy days follow the cycles of nature and the changes in the
seasons. Esbats, celevrations are held in conjunction with the phases of the
Moon. There are several traditions within Wicca, and each has its own set of
rituals and practices.
Witchcraft
The popular revival of European Witchcraft (believed to be an ancient
fertility religion). Also called The Old Religion, its modern practitioners are
often skilled herbalists and healers; their practices and techniques are similar
in many ways to those of the tribal shaman, the village Wisewoman and
Cunningman. Whilst some Wiccans describe themselves (accurately) as Witches,
there are a number of Witches who are not Wiccan. The two traditions are not
mutually exclusive, but a Witch of the Northern tradition (for example) would
have little in common with modern Wiccan practices.
