ABSTRACT
Paganism is a term that dates from antiquity with a variety of meanings. The operative meaning of Paganism for this paper is Neo-Paganism which can be described as a “twentieth-century revival of interest in the worship of nature, fertility, and so forth, as represented by various deities.” The understanding of deity in Paganism varies. Some traditions are polytheistic; others are monotheistic. Pagans identify themselves in ways similar to more common faith traditions. Unfortunately, Paganism is often misunderstood by many in the general population, sometimes to the point of Pagans being treated unfairly because of their faith. It has been reported that Pagans have lost jobs, custody of children and been shunned by family when there faith is known. Many traditions have their own understanding of and correspondences for each direction. Some Pagans may seek alternative therapies including but not limited to prayer, magick, energetic healing or reiki, herbalism, massage, and homeopathy.
