Wicca and Paganism: What's the Difference?

Although Wicca and Paganism are very similar in their beliefs and practices, they are two different religions. To put it simply, "paganism" is an umbrella term for numerous polytheistic religions, including Kemeticism, Asatru, and Hellenic Polytheism. Wicca is not an umbrella term: it defines a specific religion, with semi-uniform practices, beliefs, and ideas, but different "denominations" if you will. These include Gardnerian and Alexandrian.

However, you can be either Pagan or Wiccan and still be a Witch. On top of that, you don't have to be either one to be a Witch! I know this may all seem very confusing, but it's really not. If you are in doubt, feel free to do some research! (Note: if you are new to the Path, you're going to learn quickly that it's a lot of hard work and a ton of research! So if you don't want to do the homework, you might as well give up now.) Since the types of Wicca are relatively uniform, save for a few differences (like I said- you do the work on this one!), today we shall focus on the types of Paganism. The many types of paganism.

 

The term Paganism describes religions that worship many deities. Most Neopaganism centers on worshipping the deities of ancient cultures, such as Ancient Greece or Egypt. In an essence, Neopagans bring the fantastic myths and legends to life!

The list I offer here shall cover the most popular pagan groups, and by no means is it all there is! If you are interested in a special form of paganism and you don't feel like any of these "fit" don't get discouraged. You will find what you are looking for!

 

Hellenic Polytheism

Most of us are familiar with the Olympian gods, the Titans, and the mythical creatures of Greek lore. Well, this is what Hellenism is all about. Most followers of Hellenism are reconstructionists: this means that they abide strictly by history, and try to keep away from Wiccan or Eclectic influences. Check out the site http://www.hellenion.org/ for more information.

 



 

Kemeticism

Another branch of paganism you probably know about is Kemeticism- based on the worship of the deities of Ancient Egypt. Ancient Egyptians called their land Khemet. Kemetics are also reconstructionists. A good site is http://www.inkemetic.org/

 

 

Celtic Polytheism

This religion focuses on the deities of the Celts, which includes the people of Ancient Europe, such as the the ancient Irish, British, and Scots. To my understanding, they are another reconstructionist group. I couldn't find a good website for this group, but I do know that the Ecauldron forum offers and excellent Special Interest Group forum: http://www.ecauldron.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?56-Hazel-and-Oak-A-Celtic-Polytheism-SIG

 

 

Asatru

Asatru is the worship of ancient Scandinavian (Norse) gods- yes, I'm talking about Thor, Loki, and Odin. My husband actually practices this religion, and he finds it very fulfilling. I've studied up on it, and it's a very honor-based lifestyle. They have an excellent website at http://www.asatru.org

 

 

Neo-Druidism

Druids stem from the ancient Celts- they were the High Priests in their communities. Neo-Druids are much like shamans. A good website to visit is http://www.druidry.org/

 

 

FlameKeeping

FlameKeeping is not as specific as the previous pagan branches. Instead of focusing on certain deities, it focuses on your personal connection to the Divine in general. The official site, which I will provide in a moment, states that "Other pagan religions... should be compatible with FlameKeeping." This means that you can be say, a Hellenistic Pagan, as well as  FlameKeeper. For more information, be sure to check out http://www.flamekeeping.org/

 



 

So now you have a nice list of different types of Paganism to choose from! But before I close this, I would like to touch on Eclectics. In the Craft, an eclectic is a person who doesn't identify with one specific branch or pantheon. They take information from all over, and pave their own Path. I myself am an Eclectic. The foundation of my Witchy training was almost strictly Wicca. Then I moved on to General Goddess work, then Kemeticism, and now, I'm just plain Eclectic. And don't feel bad if you try on the shoe and it doesn't fit. In my opinion, the option to choose our own paths is my favorite part of the Craft.

But, that ends our little lesson for tonight! Have fun, be safe, and blessed be!