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paganism

IPA:

Dictionary definition of paganism

A group of religious and spiritual traditions that are not part of the major world religions, such as Christianity, Islam, or Judaism.
"Some forms of paganism involve the worship of nature spirits."

Detailed meaning of paganism

The term originally referred to the polytheistic religions of the ancient Greeks and Romans, but it is now used to describe a wide range of belief systems that are not part of the Abrahamic religions. Paganism is often associated with nature worship, and many pagans celebrate the changing of the seasons and the cycles of the natural world. It is also characterized by a strong emphasis on individual spiritual experience, and many pagans reject the idea of a single, authoritative religious text or doctrine. Some forms of paganism involve the worship of multiple deities, while others are more focused on the worship of a single goddess or god.

Example sentences containing paganism

1. Paganism encompasses a diverse range of nature-based beliefs.
2. Some paganism practices revolve around seasonal festivals.
3. Paganism often celebrates the cycles of the natural world.
4. The history of paganism dates back thousands of years.
5. Modern paganism combines ancient and contemporary elements.
6. Wicca is a well-known form of contemporary paganism.

History and etymology of paganism

The noun 'paganism' has its etymological origins in the Latin word 'paganus,' which originally meant 'rural' or 'rustic.' In ancient Rome, 'paganus' was used to describe individuals who lived in the countryside, away from the urban centers where Christianity began to flourish. Over time, the term 'paganus' came to be associated with those who held onto traditional polytheistic beliefs and practices, often in rural areas, while Christianity became the dominant religion of the cities. As a result, 'paganism' evolved to describe a group of religious and spiritual traditions that were not part of the major world religions, such as Christianity, Islam, or Judaism. The etymology of 'paganism' thus reflects its historical connection to pre-Christian and non-Abrahamic belief systems, highlighting the diversity of spiritual practices that existed before the rise of the major monotheistic faiths.

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Further usage examples of paganism

1. Paganism may involve worship of multiple deities.
2. Many paganism traditions honor the elements of earth, air, fire, and water.
3. Paganism emphasizes a deep connection to the Earth.
4. Norse paganism includes reverence for Norse gods like Odin and Thor.
5. Paganism encourages individual spiritual exploration.
6. Druidry is a form of paganism with roots in Celtic traditions.
7. Paganism respects the sanctity of the natural world.
8. Paganism often incorporates rituals and spellwork.
9. The revival of paganism has gained momentum in recent decades.
10. Some view paganism as a way to reconnect with ancestral roots.
11. Paganism embraces a holistic approach to spirituality.
12. Paganism can vary widely from one practitioner to another.
13. Paganism fosters a sense of community among like-minded individuals.
14. The study of paganism offers insights into diverse belief systems.
15. Paganism has been practiced for thousands of years.
16. Many ancient civilizations were polytheistic and practiced paganism.
17. Modern paganism includes many different traditions and practices.
18. Paganism celebrates the changing of the seasons.
19. The Wiccan tradition is a form of modern paganism.
20. Some pagans believe in magic and the power of spells.
21. Many pagans honor multiple goddesses and gods.
22. Paganism is often misunderstood and stigmatized.
23. Some pagans incorporate elements of Christianity or other religions into their practice.
24. Paganism is a diverse and complex set of beliefs and practices.