paganism
PAY-guh-niz-uhm
/ˈpeɪ.ɡən.ɪ.zəm/
A religion other than one of the main world religions, specifically a polytheistic or nature-based belief system.
Historically used by Christians as a derogatory catch-all for non-Abrahamic polytheists; modern 'Neopaganism' is self-applied by nature worship groups.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'paganus' (country dweller). Early Christians in cities used it to refer to rural folk who clung to old polytheistic god traditions.
Word relationships
- heathenism: 'Heathenism' has Germanic roots (dwelling on the heath) and carries heavier historical stigma than 'paganism'.
- polytheism: Polytheism specifically means worship of many gods; paganism includes broad cultural and nature-based spiritual traditions.
- monotheism: Belief in a single God, contrasting historically with broad polytheistic paganism.
Commonly confused with
- hedonism: Hedonism is the pursuit of pleasure; paganism is a religious system.
Word family
- pagan (noun / adjective): A person holding religious beliefs other than those of the main world religions; or relating to such beliefs.
Collocations
- ancient paganism
- rise of paganism
- paganism and Christianity
Example sentences
- "The Roman Empire gradually transitioned from traditional paganism to Christianity in the fourth century." Historical Transition
- "Modern scholars distinguish ancient polytheistic paganism from contemporary Neopagan revivals like Wicca." Modern Religion
Memory hook
PAGAN = People in the PASTORAL country sticking to traditional nature worship. Nature-based and ancient polytheistic traditions.
When not to use
Avoid using as an insult in objective academic writing; frame it historically or descriptive of polytheistic nature religions.
Fun facts
- Early Roman military slang used 'paganus' for 'civilian'—Christians saw themselves as 'soldiers of Christ', so non-believers were mere civilians/pagans.
Related words
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