Paganism, also known as polytheism, is a religious belief system that predates organized monotheistic religions. It encompasses a wide range of beliefs, practices, and traditions. Despite the diversity within paganism, there are certain convictions that are commonly held among pagans. One of the main convictions of paganism is the belief in multiple gods and goddesses. Unlike the monotheistic religions that believe in a single divine being, pagans believe that there are a variety of deities that govern different aspects of the natural world. These deities are often associated with specific forces of nature, such as the sun, moon, earth, and sea.
Holding the latter view a theological student recently wrote: “I fail to see why we must venerate the Bible as an authentic document of religious history.… It is … a document which speaks of man’s quest for the infinite.… Is not the Koran as valid a religious source for the Moslem as the Bible is for the Christian?”
In the unbelieving world, represented by professional associates; by the people with whom we work day after day; by casual acquaintances on the bus; or by the bewildered men and women sitting in the pews of many churches on Sunday, it is only those who have strong convictions based on a Christ-centered faith, and a Bible-centered message who will carry conviction to others. When one adds in Thomas s allowance that those who have not genuinely heard the Christian faith are excused from their infidelitas a category that might extend quite broadly , then the door is open wide indeed to understand how many pagans can do good in accordance with the gift of nature.
These deities are often associated with specific forces of nature, such as the sun, moon, earth, and sea. Another conviction of paganism is the belief in the interconnectedness of all living beings and the natural world. Pagans see the earth as a sacred and living entity, and they strive to maintain a harmonious relationship with nature.
Convictions
“He’s a good fellow but he does not seem to have any fixed convictions.” This identical statement was recently made by three different people, each speaking of different individuals. All were engaged in Christian work.
But how can one be a Christian without strong convictions? How can one bear an effective witness for Christ and Christian truth on a basis of uncertainty?
Convictions are an expression of faith. “I believe” is the gateway to Christianity itself. But one of the strange phenomena of much in contemporary theological thought is uncertainty about divine revelation and a blind acquiescence in the affirmations of human speculation.
We all know that misplaced convictions can close the door to truth. “My mind is made up, do not confuse me with facts” is a humorous description of the man who has closed his mind. Often applied to those dedicated to an unreasoning orthodoxy it is equally true of some devotees of humanistic philosophy.
Admitting the possibility of arriving at conclusions which cannot be supported by fact, nevertheless, when the Christian faith is involved one must solemnly say, “God help the man who has no theological convictions!”
In the realm of Christianity there are things a man must believe—convictions which must be held—without which he remains a pagan.
Man must believe in God. Without such faith it is impossible to please Him. Not only do we believe that He is but we also believe that he is the rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
The Scriptures makes it plain that where man denies the existence of God he is utterly without excuse. In Romans 1:18–20 we read: “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; because that which may be known of God is manifest to them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse.”
Man must have a conviction about himself, a conviction which enables him to realize that he is a sinner in God’s sight. This is not easy. It is humiliating to admit our complete insufficiency and unpleasant to admit that within us there is operative a law which leads us to do evil even when good intentions are present. Lack of conviction on the matter of sin is a tragic evidence of spiritual blindness.
A Christian must have convictions about Christ; about His person and His work. At this focal point there is no room for uncertainty. There is but one Christ to be accepted: the Christ of divine revelation; of scriptural record; of historical fact; of divine Saviorhood; of personal experience. Or, he must reject Him for a Christ of human limitations, devised by human imagination and changing with the whims and opinions of men.
Article continues belowThey believe in the spiritual significance of natural phenomena and seek to live in balance with the rhythms of the earth. Paganism also emphasizes personal experience and direct connection with the divine. Followers of this belief system often engage in rituals, meditation, and other practices to enhance their spiritual connection with the gods and goddesses. They believe that spiritual knowledge can be gained through personal experience and intuition rather than relying solely on religious texts or authorities. Another conviction of paganism is the celebration of seasonal festivals and the cycles of nature. These festivals, known as Sabbats, mark the changes in the seasons and honor the deities associated with them. They are often celebrated with feasting, dancing, and rituals that reflect the specific themes of each season. Overall, the central convictions of paganism revolve around the belief in multiple deities, the interconnectedness of all life and nature, personal spiritual experience, and the celebration of seasonal cycles. Pagans find meaning, purpose, and guidance in their connection with the divine and their harmonious relationship with the natural world..
Reviews for "Paganism and spirituality: finding personal connection and meaning in ancient traditions"
1. Sarah - 2 stars: I found "The Convictions of Paganism" to be a tedious read. The author's writing style was overly verbose and convoluted, making it difficult to understand the main arguments and points being made. Additionally, I felt that the book lacked a clear structure, which made it hard for me to follow along. Overall, I was disappointed with this book and would not recommend it to others.
2. John - 1 star: I really struggled to connect with "The Convictions of Paganism." The author's arguments felt flimsy and unsupported, and I found myself questioning their credibility throughout the book. Furthermore, the author seemed to make generalizations about paganism that were not backed up by sufficient evidence or research. I was left feeling unsatisfied and unconvinced by the end of this book.
3. Lisa - 2 stars: As someone who was genuinely interested in learning more about paganism, I found "The Convictions of Paganism" to be rather disappointing. The author seemed more focused on discussing their personal beliefs and opinions rather than providing a comprehensive overview of paganism. Additionally, the book lacked proper citations and references, which made it hard for me to trust the information presented. Unfortunately, this book did not meet my expectations.
4. Michael - 3 stars: While "The Convictions of Paganism" had its moments of insight, I ultimately found it to be too repetitive and long-winded. The author seemed to repeat the same arguments and ideas throughout the book, making it feel like a never-ending loop. Additionally, the lack of concrete examples and real-life anecdotes left the content feeling disconnected and abstract. Overall, I think this book could benefit from a tighter structure and more concise writing style.