Paganism dates back to antiquity. This religion was a mixture monotheistic-polytheistic religious practices. Pagan religions had a primary and subordinate deity. It was not something to worry about. There was no conflict between monotheisms and polytheism in the ancient religions.
Effigies
Effigies were used as symbolic offerings in various rituals. Pagan worship included the practice of burning human effigies. It was one of oldest and most widespread forms of pagan worship. This practice is still widespread in many cultures. Many people burn effigies on special occasions, such as Guy Fawkes Day, football rallies, and political rallies. These rituals may be quite violent but have an important meaning.
Ritual magic
Pagan rituals are rich in symbolism, meaning and imagery. Ritual practitioners may also use real objects to symbolize their intentions. These are used as mnemonic devices to help practitioners remember their intentions and make it tangible. Additionally, real objects can be thought to have magical or energy correspondences which enhance the practitioner’s energy. They also help create a liminal atmosphere and engage the senses.
Norse gods
Norse mythology contains many references to female gods and imagery. The Aesir are traditionally seen as male gods. However, many of these sagas point to a female divine presence. Frigg, the goddess of protection and marriage, is often depicted. Frigg is a very obscure figure in Norse mythology. Yet, her role as goddess is often considered important. This is because these obscure figures can be projected onto existing myths for the desired interpretations.
Modern Paganism
Paganism can be described as a religious movement worldwide that incorporates a variety diverse traditions and practices. It promotes respect for nature and encourages the rebirth old animistic and polytheistic beliefs. Modern forms of pagannism have their roots in nineteenth-century European nationalism. However, many modern groups trace their organization roots to the 1960s. These groups emphasize archetypal psychology while also taking a deep interest in the natural world. There is no established doctrine. However, there is one common belief: the importance and reverence of nature's natural order.
Margaret Murray's "witchcult" theory
Murray claimed that history shows a "witch religion" that worshipped a single horned deity. Even though her theory didn't prove the existence, she claimed that priests of this cult wore horned headscarves. Murray's theory was able to explain the appearance of Satan at witch gatherings.
Hutton's analysis
Ronald Hutton is a world-renowned scholar of paganism, and one of the most important contemporary voices in the field. The Triumph of the Moon is his iconoclastic masterpiece that decried the neopagan revival. Hutton has found a delicate balance between the denunciations made about modern neopaganism by Hutton and his belief in the historical importance of paganism for understanding the current. Hutton asks the key question: Is history of paganism relevant?
Julian's paganism
Julian's paganism was deeply rooted within the Greek and Theurgy traditions. However, he converted to Christianity through Constantius II, his cousin who was a passionate Arian Christian. Julian never lost his love for Greek culture, despite his Christian conversion. He also found refuge in pantheistic mysticism because of his strong religious temperament.