The Truth Behind the Misconceptions of Paganism

There are many misconceptions about paganism. Some of the misconceptions can be funny, such as flying around on brooms and the image of a wart-nosed hag cackling over the cauldron. The truth about paganism isn't glamorous or exciting, but the reality of myths rarely are. As a pagan, I want to share what really lies behind the misconceptions of paganism.

Misconception of Paganism #1: Not All Pagans Share the Same Beliefs

Paganism is a term covering many different traditions. Each tradition has their own beliefs, but a common thread runs through them all. Each tradition has multiple Gods and Goddesses, and revere nature. A few of the traditions are Wicca, Celtic, Norse, Egyptian, Druid, Shamanism, Kitchen witch, Hedge witch and Eclectic.

I consider myself an eclectic pagan or eclectic witch. Being an eclectic means someone has blended different traditions into one. There are some pagans who believe this is wrong, but being a pagan is enjoying the freedom of doing what feels right to you and walking your own path. There is no "right" way or "wrong" way. The Wiccan Rede is for Wiccans, for me, it's too confining and seems too much like "rules."

Don't assume when you find out someone is pagan that they're Wiccan. Get to know them, ask questions and keep an open mind. I, and many others I know, welcome rational discussions and questions on pagan beliefs.

Misconception of Paganism #2: The Pentagram is a Symbol of Satanism

This misconception is true only if the person who wears a pentagram says so. Pentagram is from the Greek word "pente," which means five, like a pentagon. The word "gram" is also Greek, from the verb "graphein" meaning "to write." It has been used to symbolize imperial power in Ancient Mesopotamia, the goddess Morrigan among the Celts and as the Five Wounds of Christ to medieval Christians.

A pentagram, to most pagans, is a symbol of protection and the elements. The top right point is air, the top left is water, bottom right point is earth and bottom left point is fire with Spirit being the single top point. A pentagram surrounded by a circle, called a pentacle by some, it represents the God and Goddess aspects. An in-depth history of the pentagram can be found at the Grand Lodge of British Columbia and Yukon.

Misconception of Paganism #3: Pagans Have No Morals or Ethics

This is a common misconception, but is only true of those people who have none in the first place. As with people in general, there are good and bad. Some pagans may pervert rituals turning them into orgies and use spellcasting to hurt others.

The core of paganism that I, and people I've known follow, is do no harm. The threefold law, which is the belief that what you do comes back to you times three, is uppermost in many pagan's minds. Seeking to harm someone or wishing them ill brings that negativity and harm back to you three times over. Painting all pagans with the same brush is as wrong as believing all groups of people, whether it's another religion or race, are the same. When you meet a pagan, treat them with kindness and respect as you would treat anyone else you meet day to day.

A Seeker's Guide to Modern Witchcraft and Paganism

Eclectic Traditions

Sorting Out the Pagan Traditions