Finding Your Path: The Complete Guide on How to Become a Pagan
The Complete Guide on How to Become a Pagan
I got my start as a pagan many years ago, decades, actually. I was raised in an evangelical Christian household and turned strict atheist in my teens. But nothing ever felt truly "right" to me.
I explored every path I could access, be it Buddism, Hinduism, Judaism, and Islam, and I would get close, but I could never find something that really fit me.
And this is where paganism came in. I think my story is similar to many people who choose paganism for their spiritual path or to help them find it. Because paganism isn't about laws and rules, it doesn't even dictate a specific belief system. Every pagan you come across will have a vastly different understanding of deity, tradition, what a soul is, or what the purpose of life is.
But that is the best part. The one thing most, if not all, pagans have in common is that we know we do not have all the answers, that life is a journey to discover maybe a tiny part of those answers, and everyone's path to them will look different.
Paganism is a blanket term for basically anything rooted in the old traditions, but I also realize from having grown up in a strict Christian household that it is used as a term for any belief system that isn't traditionally Christian.
So, the spiritual path itself can be hard to pin down.
That being said, there are some basics to paganism. These are not rules or things you have to learn and do to be a pagan. It is merely information that helps many pagans, including myself, get started. Though by no means do you have to follow a specific path to get there. I started out by learning about what we will talk about today, but my beliefs barely reflect where I started after a lifetime of learning and growing.
If you want to explore paganism, many resources are available to help you get started.
Paganism is an umbrella term that encompasses a wide range of spiritual practices that honor nature and the divine in all its forms. Whether you are drawn to Wicca, Druidry, Asatru, or another pagan path, many guides and communities are available to help you explore and learn.
Before you begin your journey to learn how to become a pagan, it is crucial to take some time to reflect on your beliefs and intentions.
What draws you to Paganism? What do you hope to gain from your spiritual practice? Clarifying your intentions can help you find a path that resonates with your unique needs and interests.
Once you understand what you are looking for, you can begin exploring the many resources available to help you get started. From books and online communities to local groups and mentors, there are many ways to connect with other pagans and learn more about this rich and diverse spiritual tradition.
Understanding Paganism
Maybe you have no idea of where to start this exploration.
That is what this blog post is here for. I will cover the basic concepts, historical roots, and some of the diverse belief systems that live under the umbrella of "paganism."
Definition and Diversity of Belief
As I stated above, paganism is an umbrella term encompassing various spiritual beliefs and practices. At its core, paganism is a nature-based religion that honors the natural world and celebrates the cycles of the seasons. Paganism is also a polytheistic religion, meaning that it recognizes multiple deities and spirits.
This is a vast generalization; some pagans are monotheistic or even atheistic, and some are less focused on nature and focus on technology instead, like technopagans.
One of the defining features of paganism is the diversity of beliefs within the community. While many pagans share a reverence for nature, there is no single set of beliefs or practices that all pagans follow.
Instead, paganism is a highly individualistic path that allows for a wide range of personal beliefs and practices.
Historical Roots
The roots of paganism can be traced back to ancient cultures worldwide. Many of the deities and practices of modern paganism are inspired by the beliefs and rituals of ancient civilizations, such as the Greeks, Romans, and Celts.
In addition to these ancient roots, paganism has also been influenced by modern movements, such as the Romantic movement of the 19th century and the New Age movement of the 20th century. These movements helped to popularize paganism and bring it back into the mainstream.
But I want to address an elephant in the room that sometimes only I can see. Pagan religious beliefs do not need to be rooted in some specific historical lineage to be valid, though many people seem to believe so.
Like you do not have to have Celtic ancestry to have Celtic pagan beliefs. Though I will admit, there is something to be said about connecting with your ancestral roots. It is an important part of my practice, but it is not a necessary one.
I find it is more important to find practices that you are attuned to, that feel like they fit you, rather than to grasp at ones only practiced by your ancient ancestors. I am biologically Celtic through and through, but many of the beliefs and practices of my people don't fit with my personal beliefs and values.
The Various Paths of Modern Paganism
Modern paganism encompasses a wide range of spiritual paths, each with its own unique beliefs and practices. Some of the most well-known paths of modern paganism include:
Wicca: a modern nature-based religion that honors the goddess and god.
Druidry: a spiritual path that emphasizes nature's wisdom and the seasons' cycles, following Celtic tradition.
Asatru: a religion that honors the gods and goddesses of the Norse pantheon.
Hellenism: a religion that honors the gods and goddesses of ancient Greece.
These are just a few examples of the many paths of modern paganism. It is important to remember that paganism is a highly individualistic path, and practitioners may have unique beliefs and practices.
For instance, I and the Young Maiden follow an eclectic paganism that includes honoring the cycles of nature, animism, reverence of deity, both actual and symbolic, and ritual witchcraft.
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Core Beliefs and Practices
So what, if any, core beliefs and practices are involved in paganism?
As you can probably guess from what we have discussed so far, this is a little hard to pin down. But I think making these basic assumptions about beliefs and practices is safe.
The following sub-sections will give you an overview of some fundamental beliefs and practices commonly associated with paganism.
Polytheism, Pantheism, or Animism
One of the defining characteristics of paganism is its belief in multiple deities. Some pagans believe in polytheism, which means they worship many gods and goddesses. Others believe in pantheism, which holds that the divine is present in all things, including nature and the universe.
Still, others believe in animism, which is the belief that everything in the world has a spirit or soul. I have even known atheist pagans who actually share similar beliefs to others but deny the existence of "gods" in the strictest sense.
But these beliefs are not required or mutually exclusive. A pagan may believe that everything has a soul, multiple deities exist, and they show themselves in everything. It all depends on individual perspective and makes for some pretty enlightening debates within pagan circles.
Honoring Nature
Paganism is often associated with a deep reverence for nature. Pagans believe everything in the natural world is interconnected and that we should strive to live harmoniously with the environment. This means that many pagans practice eco-friendly habits, such as recycling, reducing waste, and conserving energy.
However, this is also an area of great debate. Most pagans will agree that living in harmony with nature is important. I have met some pagans who believe that as part of nature, humans are doing only what their instincts (or even the gods) require of them. These pagans don't see technology or industry as an inherently evil endeavor.
Rituals and Ceremonies
Rituals and ceremonies are an important part of pagan practice. These can include anything from simple daily rituals to elaborate ceremonies for changing seasons. Some everyday rituals include lighting candles, burning incense, and using crystals or other natural objects to connect with the divine.
Personal Responsibility
One fundamental belief in any pagan belief system is the idea of personal responsibility.
Pagans believe that we are all responsible for our actions and must take accountability and accept the consequences of those actions. This means that many pagans strive to live their lives in a way that is ethical and mindful of the impact they have on others and the world around them.
If they don't, I'm comfortable with the opinion that they should. It's something missing from most religious and even nonreligious practices in the West especially.
This doesn't just mean treating others as you would like to be treated; this means taking responsibility for your own problems in your life and the relationships you have with others, realizing that you have all the power to make the changes you want to see in your life and treat your body like it is…well…a temple, as cliche as that sounds.
Don't worry about making the world a better place until you are sure you are worthy of living in such a place that you're an example of your own morality.
But enough digressing.
Connecting With Nature
Connecting with nature is an essential aspect of most pagan paths. It is a way to tap into the natural world and connect with the energies surrounding us.
Here are some ways to connect with nature as a beginner.
Reverence for the Elements and Natural Forces
Paganism emphasizes the importance of the elements and natural forces. These include earth, air, fire, water, and spirit. Each element represents a unique aspect of nature, and connecting with them can help you to feel more grounded and centered.
You can create an altar or sacred space in your home to connect with the elements. You can include items representing each element, such as a rock for earth, incense for air, a candle for fire, a bowl of water for water, and a symbol for spirit. Spend time each day meditating or simply sitting near your altar, feeling the energies of the elements.
This can be a great way to balance these energies in your life—health, emotions, transformation, and rationality.
Observing the Moon and Sun
The moon and sun are also significant natural forces in paganism. Many pagans observe the moon's phases and the sun's changing seasons to connect with nature's cycles.
To observe the moon, you can start by tracking the moon's phases each month. You can also perform moon rituals during the full or new moon. These rituals can involve meditation, journaling, or simply spending time outside under the moonlight.
Similarly, observing the sun can involve celebrating the eight Sabbats of the Wheel of the Year. These are the solstices, equinoxes, and the four cross-quarter days. You can mark these Sabbats by performing rituals, decorating your home, or spending time outside in nature.
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The purpose of observing these cycles is to align yourself with the natural cycles of nature, to work with the natural order rather than against it. Doing so allows you to find balance and peace.
But another reason to celebrate Sabbats is to find commonality with fellow pagans and create a community. Even if your individual path does not recognize the deities involved in many of these festivals, it is a way to come together with other pagans.
Creating a Sacred Space
A sacred space is hardly a pagan necessity. But it is a space where you can connect with nature, meditate, and perform rituals. You can create a sacred space in your home or outside in nature.
A space reserved just for your spiritual practices is a great way to quickly get into the right headspace for any work you do. Like the church for Christians, the temple, or a shrine, these are places that you deem special and "holy" in some way. Psychologically, these places are grounding and calming.
To create a sacred space, choose a location that feels peaceful and serene to you. You can decorate the space with items that represent nature, such as plants, crystals, or statues. You can also include items that have personal significance to you, such as family heirlooms, mementos, or symbols of your deities.
Deities, Spirits, and Ancestors
As a beginner in paganism, you will encounter a wide range of entities you can work with. These entities include deities, spirits, and ancestors. In this section, we will explore how to work with these if that ends up being part of your path.
Working with Gods and Goddesses
Working with gods and goddesses is one of the most common practices in paganism.
These entities are believed to have immense power and can help you achieve your goals. To work with gods and goddesses, you must identify the ones that resonate with you. You can do this by reading about different deities and their attributes or meditating to see which ones come to you.
I am a big believer in patron deities. I don't think you get to choose your god or goddess—they choose you. I say this because it is what happened in my life.
I explored many different pantheons and religious paths. I studied many deities and have tried to work with many. Nothing clicked, and honestly, it all felt a little forced, like I was playing a big game of pretend.
And coming immediately into paganism from an atheistic perspective, I began to doubt the existence of gods at all.
Until one day, my deity came to me, one that I hadn't even considered. I won't get into specifics today. That is for another article. But when she came to me, I immediately felt a deep connection, and because I didn't know anything about her, I needed to do my research.
I discovered through that research that she had been working within my life all along; I just wasn't listening.
Though, some pagans say that they can easily (well, maybe not "easily") work with the deities that they reach out to, so just because it did not work for me, doesn't mean it won't work for you.
Once you have identified the gods and goddesses you want to work with, you can start building a relationship with them. This can be done through offerings, prayers, and rituals. Offerings can include food, drink, or anything else the deity might appreciate.
Prayers can be recited to show your respect and ask for help. Rituals can be performed to honor the deity and ask for their blessings. Do your homework and go into the encounter with some humility, but keep your wits about you.
Some new pagans shy from the idea of gods and goddesses because they are uncomfortable with the idea of "worshipping" anything. And I actually agree with this.
Just because something exists does not mean you need to offer your body and soul to it as a servant or slave. Do with that what you will.
Ancestral Veneration and Spirit Guides
Ancestral veneration is the practice of honoring and connecting with your ancestors. This practice is common in many cultures and is believed to help you connect with your roots and gain wisdom from those who came before you.
To start working with your ancestors, you can create an altar with pictures of your ancestors and offerings such as food, drink, or flowers.
Spirit guides are entities that can help guide you on your spiritual path. These entities can be animals, plants, or even deceased loved ones. To connect with your spirit guides, you can meditate and ask them to reveal themselves to you. You can also create an altar with offerings that the spirit guide might appreciate.
I find that the best way is to just spend time in nature and meditate a lot on the entity, whatever it is, try to become attuned to what you are trying to connect with.
Invoking and Honoring Deity in Ritual
Rituals are an important part of paganism and can be used to invoke and honor deities or just to recognize certain cycles of aspects of nature.
Wiccans and some other pagans perform such rituals by creating a sacred space by casting a circle and calling upon the elements. You can then invoke the deity you want to work with by reciting prayers or chants. Offerings can be made to the deity during the ritual, and you can ask for their blessings or guidance.
Personally, I don't think any of this is necessary. I find rituals are best performed in a permanent sacred space if you have one, whether inside or outside. But sometimes that is not possible. Meditating with a symbol of your deity can be sufficient if needed.
The ritual and honoring your deity is for you, not them. If you choose to believe in gods and goddesses, don't think such beings need any ritual from you. The ritual is to help attune you to them and remind you of the life you are trying to lead and the aims you are trying to achieve.
It is the actions you take in your everyday life, the way you behave, and how well you stick to your values and beliefs that honor the gods.
Tools and Symbols
As a beginner in paganism, there are many terms you are going to come across. In this section, we will discuss the introduction to common pagan tools, symbols and correspondences, herbs, and other natural elements.
Intro to Common Pagan Tools
Paganism sometimes involves the use of different tools in rituals and spells. These tools are used to help focus your intention and energy. Here are some of the most common pagan tools:
Athame: a double-edged knife used to direct energy and cast circles.
Wand: a wooden stick used to direct energy and cast spells.
Chalice: a cup used to hold water or wine, representing the element of water.
Pentacle: a flat disc with a pentagram symbol used to represent the element of earth, but also used for protection and other spellwork.
Cauldron: a metal pot used to burn incense, herbs, or candles.
This list is some of the more popular Wiccan tools, but a million others are used by specific pagans for specific reasons. At the core, tools are symbols used to represent various intentions and natural forces, whether those be drawn sigils or physical items.
Use of Symbols and Correspondences
Symbols and correspondences are an essential part of pagan rituals and spells. Each symbol and correspondence represents a specific meaning and can help you focus your intention and energy.
Here are some examples of symbols and their meanings:
Triple Moon: represents the three phases of the moon and the three stages of womanhood: maiden, mother, and crone.
Pentagram: represents the four elements of earth, air, fire, and water, with spirit at the top.
Herbs: each herb has its own unique correspondences and can be used in spells and rituals for different purposes.
Herbs and Other Natural Elements
Herbs and other natural elements are commonly used in pagan rituals and spells. Here are some examples of herbs and their correspondences:
Lavender: used for relaxation, peace, and protection.
Rosemary: used for memory, purification, and protection.
Sage: used for purification and cleansing.
Other natural elements that can be used in pagan rituals include crystals, candles, and essential oils. Each of these elements has its own unique correspondences and can be used for different purposes.
Understanding the tools and symbols commonly used in paganism is essential for beginners. Incorporating these tools and symbols into your practice lets you focus your intention and energy and create more meaningful rituals and spells.
Getting Started with Pagan Rituals
Rituals are an essential part of any spiritual practice, from paganism to Christianity, and they can help you connect with the natural world, the cycles of the moon, and the divine, as well as people who share common beliefs.
This section will explore some tips for getting started with pagan rituals.
Planning and Setting Intentions
Before you begin any ritual, planning and setting intentions are essential. Decide what you want to accomplish with the ritual and what tools you'll need.
You might want to create an altar with candles, crystals, and other meaningful items. You might also want to choose a specific time and place for the ritual, such as during a full moon or in a natural setting.
When setting intentions, focus on what you want to manifest in your life. For example, you might want to attract love, abundance, or healing. Use affirmations or visualizations to help you stay focused on your intentions during the ritual.
Simple Seasonal Ceremonies and Celebrations
Paganism is closely tied to the seasons and the cycles of the moon. You can celebrate the changing of the seasons with simple ceremonies and celebrations. For example, you might light a candle or perform a meditation during the winter solstice to honor the return of the light. You might also create a ritual to celebrate the harvest during the autumn equinox.
You can connect with the natural world and the divine during these ceremonies. You might chant, sing, or dance to raise energy and connect with the spiritual realm. You might also use herbs, crystals, or other tools to enhance the energy of the ritual.
Using Paganism for Personal Growth
Paganism can also be a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation. You can use rituals and spells to release negative energy, overcome obstacles, and manifest your desires. For example, you might perform a ritual to release fear or anxiety or cast a spell to attract prosperity or success.
When using paganism for personal growth, it's essential to focus on your intentions and trust in the power of the universe. Remember that you are co-creating your reality with the divine and that you have the power to manifest your desires.
Building a Personal Practice
When starting out with paganism, developing a personal practice that aligns with your beliefs and values is important. This practice can include various activities such as meditation, divination, prayer, and more.
This is probably the most important aspect of practice for at least every pagan I know. Most pagans are searching for a form of personal enlightenment and to improve their lives and the world around them.
Your personal practice is the thing that keeps you on your path and builds toward your ultimate goals while keeping you attuned to the universe.
Keeping a Journal
Keeping a journal is a great way to track your progress and reflect on your experiences. You can use your journal to write down your thoughts, feelings, and insights about your practice. This can help you identify patterns, track your progress, and better understand your spiritual journey.
Regular Meditation and Grounding
Meditation is a powerful tool for developing inner peace and clarity. It can help you connect with your inner self and the divine. Regular meditation can also help you ground yourself and remain centered in the midst of chaos. You can start with just a few minutes a day and gradually increase the time as you become more comfortable with the practice.
Exploring Divination
Divination is the practice of seeking guidance and insight from the divine through various tools such as tarot cards, runes, oracles, and more. It can help you gain clarity and direction in your spiritual journey. You can start by exploring different divination tools and finding one that resonates with you.
I use tarot nearly daily to connect with my deity, meditate on a problem, or just gain perspective if I feel lost. Even psychologists have started putting patients onto tarot to calm down and think through problems.
Even if you don't believe in divinity or spirit, there are many psychological benefits to a regular divination practice.
Prayer for Guidance
Prayer is a powerful way to connect with the divine, seek guidance, and meditate. You can create your own prayers or use existing ones. You can also use prayer to express gratitude and ask for blessings. Regular prayer can help you deepen your connection with the divine and stay grounded in your spiritual practice.
Incorporating these practices into your daily routine can help you develop a personal practice that aligns with your beliefs and values.
But making all these new habits can be challenging. Remember to be patient and compassionate with yourself as you explore and grow in your spiritual journey.
Finding Community and Resources
As you begin your journey into paganism, connecting with other like-minded individuals and accessing resources to deepen your understanding can be helpful.
Here are some ways to find community and resources.
Connecting with Local Pagans
Joining a local pagan group can be a great way to connect with others and learn from their experiences. You can start by searching online for groups in your area or asking at your local metaphysical shop. Attending local events and workshops can also be a great way to meet others and learn more about the local pagan community.
Recommended Books, Websites, and More for Further Learning
There are many great resources available to help you explore paganism further. Here are some recommended books, websites, and more:
"Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner" by Scott Cunningham
"The Spiral Dance" by Starhawk
"Drawing Down the Moon" by Margot Adler
"The Pagan Book of Living and Dying" by Starhawk and M. Macha NightMare
Paganism: An Introduction to Earth-Centered Religions by River Higginbotham and Joyce Higginbotham
Websites such as The Wild Hunt offer news and resources related to paganism and other earth-based spiritual traditions.
Attending Workshops and Festivals
Attending workshops and festivals can be a great way to learn from experienced practitioners and connect with others in the community. Look for events in your area or consider attending larger festivals across the globe.
Remember, there is no one "right" way to practice paganism, and it's important to explore and find what resonates with you. Connecting with others and accessing resources can deepen your understanding and create a fulfilling spiritual practice.
Final Words
This guide was pretty basic and covered the bare minimum. Paganism is a massive topic, and the variations within it are so vast that it can't possibly be covered in a single blog post.
Hence why we dedicated an entire category to it, and probably various subcategories in the future. Hopefully, this article has given you a good foundation and some ideas of where to head next on your journey toward a pagan life.
Remember, paganism is a personal and individual path, not an institutionalized religion. It is up to you to decide what practices and beliefs resonate with you. Take your time to explore and experiment with different practices and rituals. Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek guidance from experienced practitioners.
As you continue on your pagan journey, keep in mind the importance of self-reflection and self-improvement. Take time to connect with nature and the divine and to better understand yourself and your place in the world.
We hope this guide has been helpful in getting you started on your path as a pagan. Remember, the journey is ongoing, and there is always more to learn and discover. May you find joy, peace, and fulfillment wherever you eventually end up.
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