Paganism: meaning, definitions and examples

Generally used to refer to ancient religions that are not part of the major monotheistic traditions. This term is general and can have a neutral, academic tone.

• The study of ancient paganism reveals a lot about early human beliefs.
• Paganism often includes a variety of gods and rituals.

Usually carries a negative connotation and is often used by followers of monotheistic religions to describe non-believers or those practicing non-Abrahamic religions.

• He was accused of heathenism for rejecting the town's religious practices.
• The missionaries aimed to eradicate heathenism in the region.

Describes the belief in or worship of multiple deities, typically used in a neutral or academic context.

• Ancient Greek religion is an example of polytheism.
• Polytheism often involves a pantheon of gods, each with specific roles.

Specifically refers to religious practices that involve veneration of natural elements like the sun, moon, water, or earth. This term is descriptive and neutral.

• Nature worship was common among many indigenous tribes.
• Their rituals often included elements of nature worship.

Paganism refers to religious beliefs and practices that are outside the dominant world religions, especially those that predate Christianity. It is often used in a neutral or positive sense to describe ancient or contemporary polytheistic religions.

• She has a deep interest in the history of paganism.
• Modern paganism includes a variety of nature-based spiritual practices.

Heathenism is similar to paganism but usually has a more negative or derogatory tone, often used historically to describe non-Abrahamic (non-Jewish, non-Christian, non-Islamic) religious practices. It can also imply ignorance or perceived lack of enlightenment.

• Missionaries aimed to eradicate heathenism and convert people to Christianity.
• He accused them of practicing heathenism due to their unusual rituals.

Barbarism is used to describe a state or condition of being barbaric, often implying a lack of civilization, culture, or morality. It carries a strongly negative connotation and is often used in criticism of actions or behaviors viewed as savage or cruel.

• The act of looting and destroying the ancient city was seen as barbarism.
• The dictator's regime was known for its barbarism and disregard for human rights.

Uncivilized is used to describe societies or individuals that are perceived to lack cultural, moral, or social development. It is often used pejoratively to denote primitiveness or barbarity.

• The explorers viewed the native tribes as uncivilized.
• Such brutal acts of violence are considered uncivilized behavior.