Terminology & Pagan Paths

The selection of terms or labels was among the most difficult pieces of this project.  As most of us are immersed in a Christian culture, let me use an analogy.  Consider the differences between Pentacostal Christians from Episcopal Christians, or between Southern Baptist Christians and Roman Catholic Christians.  Yet, when introducing themselves it is appropriate for any members of these groups to simply say, "I'm Christian."

The information contained in this website is Pagan, but primarily drawn from Witchcraft and Wiccan sources.  For the newcomer to this vocabulary and these spiritual paths, the word Pagan may not as religiously and socially charged as the words Witchcraft and Wicca.  For that reason I, and many others in my situation, call this spiritual system Paganism or Neo-Paganism.

The term Paganism is used as an umbrella term for various belief systems and organizations. In this strict sense of the terms, this site describes solitary Wicca and Witchcraft.  For those who are offended by the interchanging of Paganism, Witchcraft, and Wicca, I apologize.  

Unfortunately, the confusion doesn't stop there.  It can be hard to distinguish Witchcraft from Wicca, and many will say that are the same thing while others disagree.  For example, Google distinguishes between Traditional Witchcraft and Wicca.  In some cases writers call their religion Wicca and say that followers of Wicca are called Witches.  Others say that to be Wiccan one must work with a coven or group.  Still others say that Witchcraft is a magical system only, and Wicca is the surrounding religious system.  Both of these movements are continually evolving and changing, so such generalizations are difficult to make.

Diversity within Wicca and Witchcraft Traditions

There are many, many varieties and expressions of Wicca and Witchcraft.  The Witches Voice has one of the best collections of Wicca and Witchcraft groups and traditions.  Also, as mentioned above, search engines like Yahoo! (Wicca and Witchcraft)  and Google (Wicca Traditions) also give information about various Witchcraft Traditions.

One last note regarding terminology -- the term "Witch" is appropriate for male and female practitioners.  The term "warlock" is a derogatory term that generally refers to an oath breaker or deceiver.  So, although you may have come to think of "Witch" as feminine, it is an all-inclusive term.  (And the more you get to know Witches and Wiccans the more *proud* male Witches you will come to know!)

Diversity in Pagan Paths & Traditions

It seems that every time I go web surfing I find a new name or a new twist on a Pagan tradition.  If you are new to Paganism please don't let these lists overwhelm you!  Take your time with your own studies and your personal spiritual development -- let your spirit guide you to the philosophy or tradition that is best for you at this point in your journey.  When you are ready to explore Pagan paths, some great places to start are:

Yahoo! Search Directory: Pagan Traditions and Paths:
Provides links to websites with information on many Pagan paths, including Asatru, Celticism, Kemetic, Religio Romana and Slavic.

Google Directory: Pagan:
Also provides links to websites with information on Pagan paths, along with organizations, parenting, shopping, and sites for kids and teens

Belief.net, Religions, Pagan & Earth-Based: 
Here you will find discussions of Asatru, Celtic Religions, Native American, Paganism, and Wiccan spiritual systems.

About.com, Alternative Religions:
Here you will find links to information on several religious perspectives, including Druidry and Roman Reconstructionists.  

The Cauldron, A Pagan Primer:
Gives a good overview of the many ways of defining Paganism and Earth-based religions.

These sites will give you enough information to then return to more specific internet searches.