No matter
what source you ask for the definition of Paganism, you will find the common
answer reflecting a great deal of difficulty in describing it. Webster's
dictionary, the definitive source for definitions in the English language
lists Pagans as "country dwellers" amongst many other abusive and defacing
definitions. Though the other definitions seem to come from an influence
of dogma, the "country dwellers" definition is most commonly interpreted
as people who's religion is entirely based upon the effects of the world
on their individual lives. When this definition was raised, most country
people were very secluded and didn't take a great deal of time or effort
to elaborate their beliefs in an effort to include those from other regions.
Despite this simpler background
then what is commonly found in modern day society, Paganism has found itself
in many other parts of the world then just with those who live in the more
rural regions. This makes it certain that a simple definition of "country
people" can no longer suit.
All modern day Paganism stems
in some fashion from the influences of the older and ancient forms of Paganism.
Very little information or documentation exists to prove any of the ancient
beliefs and with the structure of modern day society that which is known
of these beliefs does not fit. Therefore the ancient beliefs and modern
influences have mixed together to create new belief structures for today's
Pagans.
Most modern day Pagans believe
strongly in a balance between their own existence and that of the different
entities in the world around them. It is this balance that is generally
used to build that belief structure and further allow the Pagan to advance
and learn through this world. Their view of themselves as a part of nature
is frequently well defined to include the influence that they have on other
beings and entities along with the influence those things have on them.
This balance typically extends beyond the simple relation of the physical
existence's within the natural world, to the balance between the physical
life and that of the spirit and supernatural.
Pagans frequently believe
in a high power of some fashion. They are not exclusively polytheists or
monotheists but frequently have a specific deity or set of deities to which
they look for physical manifestations of a spiritual power. Very rarely
is a Pagan an atheist although it is not unheard of.
Generally forms of Paganism
are rooted in some regional belief structure like the beliefs of those
who's influence come from Germanic tribes, or those who focus on the structures
of Celtic history. The vast majority of all forms of Paganism have a regional
background that takes a primary influence in their beliefs. Since these
faiths are linked closely to nature, it is frequent that those beliefs
are structured around the natural influences of those particular regions.
There are currently a number
of different forms of Paganism. Most Pagans do not have a particular group
to classify themselves in and simply find the Pagan label to be more suiting.
