Beginner_Guide

Beginner's Guide to Paganism: Part 1
by Athelia Nihtscada

As the new millennium approaches, more and more people are turning away from the mainstream religious practices to explore and perhaps practice spiritual paths that may or may not relate to their ancestral roots.

Why is that? No one has any specific answer to that question. Some people are just not satisfied with religions that, in their minds, are no longer useful for our times. They may feel the practices and beliefs are "outdated". Others want a more "hands-on" approach to spirituality. They would prefer to take their spiritual matters into their own hands rather than leave their immortal souls in the hands of another human being (clergy). As a new millennium draws nearer and people are thinking more of the earth (with the depleting ozone layer, environmental concerns, etc.), some people may be wanting to connect with the earth as their ancestors did in order to make a kind of peace between their soul and the land on which they live. Who knows...

So...what IS Paganism, anyway?

Unlike other spiritual paths, Paganism is widely varied, not well known, and self-directed. It has a mysterious air about it that conjures up pictures of ancient times, and powerful priests and priestess healing people, performing rituals and casting spells; but what is it exactly? I think the best way is to look at it historically:

Paganism was not always called Paganism, of course, for at one time, these practices were just the every day religious practices of our ancestors. The Egyptians, Romans, Celts, Greeks, Aztecs, Mayans, etc. all had their own religious practices complete with their own pantheons of deities, rituals, feast days and rites of passage. These beliefs managed to survive in pieces which we have adapted today into our own beliefs.

These practices stem from early man's amazement and wonder of nature around him and how there must be some sort of higher power that controls the forces of nature. Our earliest ancestors were innocently awed by such things as thunder and lightning, the changing of the seasons, the transition between night and day, and the miracle of birth. It must have amazed our earliest ancestors to think that they could bring forth a new life from sexual union.

These beliefs led to the "creation" of gods and goddesses that controlled different aspects of nature: Goddess of the Moon, God of Thunder, Mother Goddess and Father God the "parents" of mankind, tree deities, rock deities, etc. As their spiritual beliefs became more advanced, more deities came into the picture: warrior deities, healer deities, deities of the trades such as blacksmithing or farming. With the acknowledgement of higher powers came the need to appease these beings to make life favorable. Rituals were created to appease these deities and special days were designed to acknowledge and thank them. As not everyone was one who could perform a ritual, certain people were assigned (or volunteered) to conduct these rituals. These people trained certain others as to the correct ways of conducting rituals and appeasing the deities....thus, religion was born. This is a very basic view of it, of course...I could go into greater detail but I would be here for the rest of my life, carrying on about it!

As the ages went by, certain extraordinary people's lives were remembered and evolved into wonderful tales. Some of these people even became deities in their own rights. These stories when collected together within a group of people, became their mythology.

Many of these ancestral beliefs were forcibly abandoned when a tiny little cult that might never have made its way in the world had it not been for the Romans' eventual acceptance of it. This tiny little cult was based on the teachings of a peace loving man who had a lot of knowledge and was quite ahead of his time in the school of thought. This man happened to live in a place that was being annexed by the Romans and was eventually killed for his outrageous beliefs. A few people that followed his teachings began to teach them to others and a small "cult" grew. The Romans did not like this little group much and persecuted them as much as possible. Many of these people were fed to lions or some other gruesome death in the Roman arenas until one of them managed to change the mind of an emperor...

The Rise of Christianity...the Fall of Many...

The little-cult-that-almost-didn't enjoyed a very hasty rise in status with the conversion of Emperor Augustus when he declared "Christianity" the official religion of Rome. Once anything was declared in Rome, it was pretty much law.

The Romans were very imperialistic in nature and their new religion was no different. In Rome's heyday, the goal was to take over the world. Unfortunately the Roman Empire was starting to flounder at the time Christianity got its boost in life. That did not stop them from achieving most of their main goal, however.

With the support of Rome, Christian missionaries began moving out to convert people outside of Rome. Some were easier to convert than others. Those that didn't convert right away usually did after a little "convincing". By the time the middle ages rolled around, Rome had achieved much of its goal...sort of. They did take over most of the known world...in the name of religion.

So, how does that take us to Paganism's history as we know it? During the dark ages; before the burning times, many of the people that lived on farms and away from villages and towns still retained their old ways. These people were known as "pagan" or "heathen" (Heath is still a word for "country-dwelling" in Europe) - the Latin word for "country-dweller". "Pagan" became the word for those practicing the old ways to the Christians because usually, only the country-dwellers were practicing it. Eventually, the words "pagan" and "heathen" became the general description of anyone not Christian or not following the mainstream.

The Catholic church of Rome began to get a little fanatical about things during the time of the plagues and such. They believed that the plagues were God's will. When they saw people who practiced the old ways, particularly women (who never did have a very good reputation in Christian belief) healing and curing the people, they had a massive problem on their hands. People who did not believe in "God" curing people as if they were Gods? This could not be happening...or the people might lose faith in their God. Something had to be done and fast.

We now come to the darkest part of our history...The Burning Times. The Catholic Church's way of dealing with the troublesome "heathens" was to be rid of them through force. Times became very grim indeed. To be even remotely suspected was a death sentence. The church was extremely thorough in their search. Everyone was a suspect. People would turn in their neighbors and friends...even relatives in order to keep the blame off of themselves. Women were especially suspect (as I said earlier, the Christian view of women was not that high to start with).

Upon capture, these people suffered torture both physical and mental in order to make them confess to being witches before finally being killed. (Wouldn't you confess to anything under torture?) They had bizarre methods of finding out whether a person was a witch or not. If a person floated when immersed in water, then they were a witch (considering all people float unless they have lead or something holding them down, that's a pretty stupid way of judging), if a person had a mole on their body, then they were a witch (well that also includes almost the entire human population!)...if a person died, he/she was innocent. The logic of that age is not what one might call rational.

Is it over yet?

Luckily for us today, these things do not happen anymore. Or do they? In October of 1997, the Calgary Herald ran an article on witches. In South Africa, 535 men and women were tortured and/or killed...in 1997! That was only a couple of years ago.

Discrimination is probably our biggest threat today in the free world. One could lose a job (or just a chance of getting a job) if it was known that he/she was Pagan. Some more flamboyant Pagans in uptight areas have had their homes and property vandalized.

One of our traditions today reflect the burning times: our Grimoire or Book of Shadows traditionally have black covers (easier to hide at night during a midnight raid in the middle ages?) and they are not allowed to be seen by anyone outside the trusted circle.

The Resurgence of Paganism

I hope I haven't scared you off just yet. Our history is grim, but then so is most history...even the Christian history.

The resurgence of Paganism has been going on since at least the 17th century. "Secret societies" such as the Freemasons have been a key factor in regaining public interest in the old ways. Back in the 1700's, things were kind of romantic. Poets and artists were seemingly everywhere. These people were highly influential and also hungry for knowledge of more "mystical" things. They formed these societies to learn more of the universe and its workings (because churches just don't tell you stuff like that!) and maybe how to manipulate the universe to their will. Many of these people were rich and pompous while a few actually came out with some good ideas.

Rich and pompous or not, these people started the fire which is still burning and growing larger today. People started wondering if there was more to learn than what they were being taught. They wanted to discover more. These secret societies led to some orders which are still around today: the Golden Dawn, The Freemasons, the OTO and The Order of Bards, Ovate and Druids.

In the 1960's and 70's, more and more young people began to develop an interest in spiritual paths that were not of the mainstream. Some of the more popular ones were Hindu, Buddhism...and of course Paganism. It is still the case today. Many young people are wanting to discover paths that are not the ones they were raised on. "New Age" bookstores are full of younger people wishing to take the path less traveled to find their spiritual niche in life.

In this age of the internet and increasing knowledge, many people want a spiritual path that allows them to learn about how the universe works and how to interact with it. This is what makes Paganism "the once and future faith".

Other people get into Paganism for the wrong reasons as well. Some people think that by becoming Pagan, they will have all this power and be able to cast spells to make people fall in love with them or to get back at their enemies. I have had many a student like this (I'd say about 98% of the people who have approached me to teach them have done it for these reasons). Many of these people found Paganism not to their liking when they were told that this is a spiritual path with ethics and such, and that they would have to work hard to learn the principles behind the spells. "The Craft", a movie which was released only a few years ago, gives a good example of people getting into Paganism with the wrong method.

Dispelling the Romance

As mentioned above, many people have this image of Paganism as being the ultimate "free ride". Finally! A religion where there are no rules and they can have the power of the universe to play with as they will! A faith where there are no repercussions for stupid actions or evil deeds. A path where they can wear stag horns, and dance naked merrily under the moon and frolic all the time!

WAKE UP, KIDS! Take a reality check and sit down.

Ok, now that we're back in the real world where rose is not the predominant color of the sky...let's discuss what Paganism is REALLY about.

Paganism is a serious spiritual path that requires study, dedication, hard work, and good ethical standards. Many Pagan traditions require a year and a day's worth of hard study before you can even utter a charm, let alone cast a spell! Things like who the deities are in the tradition you have chosen, the Elements and Elementals (what they are, what they do, etc), "cosmic" law, ethical practice must be learned. This takes a lot of time and energy on the part of the student.

Paganism also does not excuse us from the human race. What I mean by this is that basic common sense need not be forgotten. I have noticed that many people who are starting out in Pagan tradition seem to think that since they are on a different spiritual path, everything changes. Many of these people run around with their one book of spells (the only book they have read on the subject) that they bought at the new age bookstore, wearing tons of makeup, arguing with anyone who stands in their way, showing off to their friends by channeling who-knows-what and casting spells when they have no idea what they are doing.

Not only can this make one look incredibly stupid, this can be dangerous as well.

On a basic level, wearing too much make-up, showing off and looking like a "new-age dork" can lead to things such as getting one's butt kicked at school or elsewhere; being grossly misunderstood by others, especially by one's parents, or drawing unwanted attention.

On the spiritual level, the consequences can be far more serious. When you play with fire, you get burned, unless you are careful and know what you are doing. When you undertake to channel, cast a spell...or even do a simple tarot reading, you are in fact drawing the attention of the spirit realm to yourself. If you work your practices properly, the outcome will be good. If not, the outcome will be bad for you. You are not in control of the spirit realm, just of yourself.

In the mainstream religions, the clergyman or woman takes on all the spiritual responsibility, save for the basics, of his or her congregation. There is not a lot of individual responsibility or a need to learn much. Just read the book, go to the service, and accept the deity and you'll be OK. It might also be nice if you were a good person too...you'll get extra points for that! Paganism works on a different scale however.

As a Pagan practitioner, you are the clergy. You must know the basic laws and such of the universe. You are also responsible for all of your actions. When anyone undertakes a role such as a priest, priestess, clergyman, etc, they are drawing great attention from the spiritual realms. As trained practitioners, they are in direct contact with the Divine Force (God, Goddess, etc) and the spirit world and therefore a lot of responsibility will be placed on you. If you screw up, you take the full spiritual blame times three. (one of the cosmic laws I mentioned earlier: The threefold law) The Divine Force and the spirit world are not easy ones to work with (as a practitioner, that is in essence what you do). Like any working relationship, your attitude will reflect a lot of what things will be like. If you get along well with your co-worker, things will go smoothly, if not then you could wind up in a whole world of trouble.

If there is one piece of advice I would give to anyone starting out is to remember that simple thing: you are the priest/priestess; you are in direct contact with the Gods and the spirit world...be responsible! The Gods and spirits will help those who are true to themselves, honest; who hold integrity and work their practice ethically. If you are reckless with the spirits and the power of the universe that they are letting you use, then they will show their displeasure...and it will be completely YOUR problem! No one can take the blame for that. Remember, they are lending you their power...use it wisely and with good discretion!

This is why as Pagans, we must be aware of the consequences of our actions, maybe more so than others. This is also why it is imperative that Paganism be taken seriously and why much must be learned. A direct connection with the Gods and spirit world is nothing to be taken lightly.

It Isn't All Work and No Fun!

Now, I probably sound like an old poop, but I just wanted to give it straight as it is. Paganism is a lot of fun as well and is very fulfilling to those who practice it wisely and with a good heart. The Goddess charges that we have fun and enjoy ourselves as well.

All work and no fun can make Johnny a miserable little bugger and make a spiritual path not very interesting! One of the great things about Paganism is that there is a sense of freedom about it. There is no set doctrine that dictates how you run your practice, as long as you keep in mind the consequences of your actions.

Feasting, dancing and fun are a part of ritual as well as all the serious stuff. Rituals can be set up with elaborate costumes, altar supplies, music, dancing and different foods. They can be held with many people, with feasting and merriment afterwards. "An it harm none, do as thou wilt" is the Wiccan Rede. Have fun, so long as it harms no one and will not end up coming back at you later.

What is Your Motive?

Before we get into how one becomes a pagan and such, it is important to ask yourself "What is my motive? Why do I feel this is the path for me?" What drew you to the Old Ways? Did you read a book about it? Watch "Sabrina the Teenage Witch" and think "Hey, that's cool"? See a TV special on A&E on Witches or read an informative book that struck up your interest?

One very interesting reason I heard from a friend was that she had read a lot of fantasy novels and found certain things that had a common thread to them. In looking further into this bond and through life experience, she found her path and has been enjoying her practice for many years. Another one I heard somewhere else was that God had taken a loved one away and the scriptures had said have three people pray and the person will not die. Obviously Fate had her way and this person decided that Christianity had lied and so forth.

So....why DO you want to become Pagan? What draws you to this path? Do you think it would be awfully cool to be able to cast spells and have the power over the universe? Do you want the "free ride" I mentioned earlier? Do you want to open a portal just so you can visit a foreign country? (If you do, please rethink your motives and come to a more realistic standpoint before entering into something as serious as this) Do you find yourself sneaking out and taking walks in the middle of the night just to stare at the moon in wonder? Do you feel a burning desire to know more than what is being taught to you at the present time? Do you wish to better yourself and help others by learning the ways of the natural world? Do you feel a deep respect for the world around you and want to be a part of it...working with it?

Whatever your reasons, make sure that this is absolutely the way you want to go. Do not make hasty decisions before entering into ANY form of spirituality. Learn as much as you can about the path you feel you might like to take. Read books, get on the internet, talk to people you meet who practice it before you go deeper into things such as finding a teacher and so on. Learn as much as you can! That is the beauty of Paganism... it encourages you to learn...it has no secrets to hide from those who seek to know the ways of the world.

So, How Does One Become A Pagan?

In some movies and books, people inherit the title of witch from within their "withy" family. While it is true that certain gifts can be passed on through the family line, one does not need to be born into it to become a witch as is proven by many people who are walking the Pagan path. Many of them come from a Christian background rather than a Pagan one (that we know of...many Pagan-raised children are taught to keep silent about their practices to save them from being picked on in school or in later life).

The biggest part of becoming Pagan is discovering it. I didn't know what the word Pagan meant until I was 16 and I had come out of the Catholic School system into the Public School system!

Today, the message given of Paganism is a mixed one. Sometimes it is portrayed well in the media, and sometimes it is not. I have seen a teenage girl's magazine that had "Tarot cards" in it. The girl cuts these cards out and can use them for divination and such. (They're cards with pictures of all the hunky young men from TV and the movies and such that coincide with the tarot card suits) This same magazine also has a few spells that young girls can cast such as a spell that curses those who would oppose you and a spell to make guys call you. I personally do not agree with either of these things. The two spells are both binding spells and should not be cast by people not trained to do so. The repercussions would be staggering! Unfortunately, it is things like this that give people the wrong ideas about Paganism.

I found out about Paganism because I was interested in Celtic history. When I went to Alternative High School, I met people there who practiced Paganism. When they explained to me what it was, I felt a very strong pulling towards that path. I wanted to know more. I wanted to follow the path the ancient Celts, my ancestors, did. I went to the library and the bookstore and first took out numerous books on Celtic history. Later, when I found that there were actually people who practiced Druidism, I picked up books on Druidism and Celtic Paganism. I understood that this was not true Druidism because there were no written records, but I learned over the years to listen to my spirit guides and my inner self and pick out what seemed right. Over the years, I learned what practices were favorable with the deities I was working with and which were not.

What Tradition Do You Wish to Pursue?

This is an important question as there is no ONE type of Pagan practice...there are many! Paganism is probably one of the most diverse faiths in the world because there is no one way to practice it. Deities honored, ritual structure, practices and beliefs are widely varied between each tradition.

Things to look for when deciding which tradition you want to follow include:

What are your cultural interests? Are you fascinated by or drawn to Celtic history and mythology, Egyptian practice, Greek, Roman, Mayan, etc. traditions?

Are you Traditional or Eclectic? What I mean is are you a person who is ritualistic, who likes to do the same thing all the time or are you a person who likes a little more freedom to create your own styles and do new things? Traditionalists usually have a set way of doing things. They use the same rituals which are usually very elaborate. Eclectics are a little more on the creative side. They create their own rituals; often-new ones each time they perform. They enjoy the freedom of not having as many guidelines or limitations to their practice. One is not better than the other by any stretch.

Are you one who wishes to do a lot of working with spells or do you just want to follow this as a spiritual path of self-discovery? This will have a lot of influence in the path you follow. For instance, Wicca would be the way to go for someone who wishes to get into a lot of practical work (by practical, I mean casting spells and doing magical workings). OTO would be for those who wish a more ceremonial and less "practical" approach. For the practitioner who wants to spend more time using shamanisms skills, meditation and Otherworldly journeying for development of the soul or to help others, Shamanism, Druidism or the Native American traditions may be the path best chosen.

It will take time to find the tradition and practice that works best for you. Do as much research as you can on the different traditions by reading, surfing the internet or talking to other practitioners before going any further. Realize that over the years, as you progress, you may change your value system and choose to practice differently. This research at the beginning gives you the knowledge to make any necessary transitions easier.

Finding a teacher of some sort is important as well, but not completely necessary. I did not have a teacher at all. I basically had my spirit guides (who kept me well enough in line), my books, and the school of hard knocks. I learned the hard way what was good practice and what was not! If I screwed up, and I did a bit, I paid dearly for it! I was lucky that I did know a few people that had been practicing for a while who I could share stories with and ideas.