“Paganism,” like most beliefs or ideologies, is revealed when examined closely to be a number of differing ancient practices and attitudes, and not a homogeneous, monolithic religious system. The myriad forms of paganism can be treated as a relatively unified whole.
Paganism, then, is characterized by beliefs and attitudes that differentiate it from Christianity. The most obvious is the worship of many immortal and sometimes deific entities called gods, goddesses, and spirits. These entities inhabit the landscape, the sky, the sun, the moon, and other parts of the world, and also the Other Side (also called the Spirit Realm, the Faerie Realm, or any number of other such titles). They imbue the world with a
life force and consciousness. By living in harmony with these natural forces, people live happier, healthier, safer lives. Paganism believes in an afterlife, on the Other Side, and druids also teach that souls reincarnate back onto our side as well.
Paganism is built upon oral tradition, shunning the written word. This grows out of a system of belief that reveres empirical experience over education. Pagans do not proselytize. Nor do they adhere to a strict hierarchy of leadership, or to a central authority. One important belief is an acknowledgment of human limitations, especially where it comes to knowing the “Truth.” Truth, for pagans, has many forms, all of which deserve respect
within their limited sphere.
Paganism is a religion of nature; ceremonies are usually held at outdoor sites such as megalithic circles or ancient oak groves. The seasonal celebrations in different parts of the land are similar, although they probably invoke deities with different names. The patterns are the same, though details differ from place to place.
Paganism is eclectic and acknowledges many gods and goddesses, even many from outside of Britain. British paganism includes native deities such as Don and Beli; Roman imports like Minerva Sulis and Dionysus; and Far Eastern mysticism, such as Mithras, Isis, and Cybele. Pagans may be content to think that their ancient ways will eventually absorb even the latest religion imported from Rome: Christianity.