As a public representative of Paganism, I frequently talk to people who feel drawn to Pagan religions but aren’t sure if Paganism is the right fit for them. As minority belief systems, the specifics of Pagan beliefs and practices are not well-known in wider society. Additionally, the incredible diversity of Pagan religions means that although one Pagan path may work well for someone, another may not. The mix of information people hear about us can be a bit confusing as a result.
It’s useful to understand that contemporary Paganism is wildly theologically diverse with practices that match that diversity. The religions that fall under the banner of Paganism include animists who believe all the world is sacred and sentient, revivalists and reconstructionists who are rebuilding the pre-Christian religions of the ancient world, atheo-Pagans who find meaning in the cycle of the seasons and in trying to live in best alignment with them, Goddess worshippers who have fully rejected the idea of patriarchy in every form including religious ones, and so much more.
That said, there are a few traits that I encounter regularly in Pagan circles. They are not universal, but they’re common enough that there are in-jokes about them. So, without further ado:
You might be Pagan if you find nature more sacred than any human-made structure. One of the running jokes in Pagan circles is that Paganism is just an advanced state of environmentalism. Pagans are frequently drawn to nature for spiritual connection. We find the outdoors, particularly places with less human infrastructure, to be more spiritually resonant than any temple. This is part of why most of our large gatherings occur in campgrounds and parks. We seek wisdom from the natural world. Many of us venture out when in need of an omen or guidance for choosing our next steps. We support an interactive, communicative relationship with the land and species we live with. Continue reading…
