Neopaganism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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neopaganism

[ˌniː.oʊˈpeɪ.ɡən.ɪz.əm ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

modern religion

Neopaganism is a modern religious movement that seeks to revive or recreate the practices of pre-Christian polytheistic religions. It encompasses a wide range of beliefs and practices, often emphasizing a connection to nature and the cycles of the seasons. Neopagans may worship various gods and goddesses, hold rituals outdoors, and participate in community gatherings.

Synonyms

contemporary paganism, modern paganism, paganism.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
neopaganism	This term is often used to describe new or revived pagan beliefs and practices that have emerged primarily in the 20th and 21st centuries. It usually signals a distinction from ancient pagan religions. Neopaganism includes various diverse contemporary religious movements such as Wicca and Druidry. Many people are drawn to neopaganism due to its emphasis on nature worship and polytheism.
paganism	This is the broad term for a variety of polytheistic, nature-based religions, often pre-dating the spread of major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. It can sometimes carry a negative connotation due to historical context. Ancient paganism was practiced by many cultures, including the Greeks, Romans, and Norse. Paganism is often associated with the worship of multiple gods and elements of nature.
modern paganism	This term describes recent forms of paganism that reflect modern values and lifestyles. It can be used interchangeably with 'contemporary paganism' but emphasizes the influence of modernity. Modern paganism embraces a variety of practices, from witchcraft to reenactments of ancient rites. One of the appeals of modern paganism is its flexibility and adaptability to individual beliefs.
contemporary paganism	This term refers to pagan practices and beliefs that are current and modern. It underscores the current, living nature of these traditions, as opposed to ancient or historical paganism. Contemporary paganism often incorporates practices from a variety of ancient traditions. The rituals of contemporary paganism are often inclusive and adapt to modern values.

Examples of usage

Many neopagans celebrate the solstices and equinoxes as sacred holidays.
Some neopagans honor ancient deities such as the Norse god Odin or the Celtic goddess Brigid.
Neopaganism often involves rituals like meditation, chanting, and the casting of spells.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

Neopaganism emerged in the early 20th century, particularly with movements like Theosophy and the revival of Druidry in the UK.
The Wicca tradition, popularized in the 1950s by figures like Gerald Gardner, is one of the most well-known branches of neopaganism.
Various neopagan groups draw inspiration from ancient European, Norse, and Celtic traditions, adapting them for contemporary practices.

Cultural Significance

Neopagan practices often emphasize the importance of nature, seasonal changes, and the cycles of the moon and sun.
Festivals such as Beltane and Samhain are widely celebrated, reflecting ancient agricultural and seasonal themes.
Neopagan communities frequently engage in activism, promoting environmentalism and social justice within their spiritual framework.

Psychology

Participants in neopagan communities often report a strong sense of belonging and identity that enhances their mental well-being.
The practices surrounding rituals and celebrations can provide individuals with coping mechanisms and a sense of purpose.
Neopaganism encourages personal spirituality and self-discovery, allowing practitioners to craft their own belief systems.

Pop Culture

Neopagan themes have been represented in literature and film, from the works of authors like Patricia Monaghan to movies depicting witchcraft and ancient rituals.
TV shows like 'Charmed' and 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' have popularized tropes associated with witchcraft and neopagan beliefs.
Music genres such as folk and metal often incorporate neopagan themes, exploring nature, mythology, and the supernatural.

Origin of 'neopaganism'

Main points about word origin

The term combines 'neo', meaning new, and 'paganism', which comes from Latin 'paganus', originally meaning 'country dweller' or 'someone who lives in the countryside'.
The word 'pagan' initially referred to outdoor worshippers and later became associated with non-Christian religions.

The term 'Neopaganism' emerged in the 20th century to describe the revival of ancient pagan practices in a modern context. Influenced by movements like Romanticism and the environmental movement, Neopaganism gained popularity as a way to reconnect with nature and explore alternative spiritual beliefs. While drawing inspiration from historical pagan traditions, Neopaganism is a diverse and evolving movement with roots in various cultures around the world.