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Paganism, defined as meaning an earth-based, non-monotheistic religion, has been around since the time of the cavemen. Neo-paganism (Wicca-oid religions) has been around for less than 100 years.
Symbols, pictographs and ancient cave paintings suggest that Ancient Paganism has been with mankind throughout the ages. Mankind by nature seems to need a formalised structure for the worship of his gods, as well as explanations and reasons for the things of the universe he can not justify, understand or fully comprehend.
Modern or Neo Paganism has been with us for somewhat less time than that. Most, although not all of today's practicing Pagans are adherents to some form or variation of Gardnerian Paganism. Founded by Gerald Gardner in the 1950's. He did not "make up" the belief system, but he did a lot to bring it out of the "broom-closet." His writings claim his teachers came of a family tradition long established in England. There are other groups in many other counties that claim roots in equally old Family traditions and although there are those that claim their spiritual paths have been handed down through family members for generation, there is some question how close what is now practiced is to the "original" form.
Not that that is a real difficulty for Modern (and Future)Pagans as we do not have a "Holy" book (or books), but rather practice what could be called a "living" spiritual path, which is constantly evolving as people, technology, and the world around us evolves.
My Grandmother did not need to have rituals or spells to deal with automobiles or airplane travel or need to concern herself with the ethics of modern day medicine and the effect of it on her family and/or spiritual group. Today I do, and my grand nieces and nephews will need a spiritual path that can adapt to the changes of a future I can only guess at the wonders and dilemmas of.
Wiki User
∙ 15y ago
Wiki User
∙ 12y agoPaganism is as old as man kind... Wicca however was invented in the 1940's by Gerald Gardner. He took old beliefs from Paganism and re-invented some of them creating what is now known as Wicca.
Wiki User
∙ 12y agoAs old as mankind. Since the first humanoid looked up at the stars and said "thank you" to whomever was watching over and providing for them. That's when paganism started.
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Who was the head of the pagan religion?
There was not just one pagan religion, but the head of the mainstream pagan religion in Rome was the emperor.
What is the difference between pagan and religion?
Pagan beliefs are one type of religion. There are other types of religion, which are not usually considered to be "pagan".
What is the most popular religion in Albania?
Albanians have many religion .. Islam 50% and 40% Christians , The rest 10% are atheist or old illyrian pagan religion,
How far away is Pagan from Indiana?
What are you talking about!? Pagan isn't a place ( i don't think) Pagan is a religion!!!
Which religion were the vikings?
was the name of the vikings religion called pagan or asatru
What is pagan ideal mean?
A pagan is a person whose religion believes in magic or superstition.
What type of religion dose Phoenicia have?
Pagan
What did the old pagan religion believe in that controlled all aspects of existence?
There is no "the" old pagan religion, there were many. Each one had different beliefs regarding deity, so you should clarify your question. i.e. what country/region? Time period? Even then by the very nature of pagan religions being those of people that lived outside of cities, it is highly likely they all had their own interpretations of deity varying from person to person.
Is wicca and pagan the same religion?
no. paganism is a range of religions, like Christianity. Wicca is a type of pagan, but a pagan isn't necessarily a Wiccan.
What religion is the Celtic cross from?
What I think the religion of the Celtic cross came from is probably the Pagan Druidic religion.
Does the sacrificing of Jesus makes Christianity a Pagan religion?
No.
What was Helen of troy's religion?
Ancient Hellenistic, "pagan".
