Paganism

Paganism, beliefs and practices associated with the worship of nature. Paganism may take many forms, including pantheism (belief that the whole of reality is divine), polytheism (belief in many gods), and animism (belief that natural features of the world are invested with divine power). Historically, the adherents of the three major monotheistic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam) have applied the term to the indigenous religions they encountered in the course of their expansion.

For information on:

• 20th century paganism, see Erich Ludendorff; New Age Movement; Witchcraft
• pagan beliefs and traditions, see God: Polytheism and Animism; Divination; Druidism; Idolatry; Witchcraft
• pagan mythology, see Mythology
• Christian opposition to paganism, see Crusades; Missionary Movements; Colonialism and Colonies

For more information about paganism, see the Related Articles list.