Whether it’s the ancient Greeks, the Egyptians, or the Vikings, pagans have always had a deep reverence for their gods. These deities have different names and personalities across various cultures, but they share one thing in common – they are worshipped by devoted followers who seek blessings, guidance, and protection. So, who are these gods, and why are they so important to pagans?
At the core of pagan beliefs is the idea that everything in the universe is connected, from the smallest grain of sand to the largest galaxy. And, just like humans have free will, the natural world is also populated by divine beings with their own will and agency. These gods and goddesses are seen as personifications of the elements, such as air, earth, fire, and water, as well as human traits such as love, wisdom, and courage. By honouring them through rituals, offerings, and prayers, pagans believe they can tap into the power of these forces of nature and achieve greater harmony with themselves and the world around them.
From the Celtic goddess Brigid, patron of poetry and healing, to the Norse god Odin, master of magic and inspiration, the pantheon of pagan gods is vast and diverse. While they may appear as mythical figures in modern times, they were once the focus of daily life for our ancestors, who saw them as ever-present forces that guided their every move. Today, as we seek meaning in a world that can often seem chaotic and disconnected, the worship of pagan gods offers a way to connect with our inner selves and the natural world in a profound and transformative way.
Mythology of Pagan gods
Paganism represents one of the oldest religions in the world, and it is well known for its strong association with nature and the earth. Pagans believe that the natural world is sacred, and this belief reflects in the deities that they worship. The mythology associated with pagan gods is fascinating and rich in symbolism. Each god represents a different aspect of life, and their stories showcase the power dynamics of the universe. The mythology of pagan gods provides valuable insights into the values, customs, and beliefs of the pagan community.
Mythology of Pagan gods
- Pagan gods were classified into several categories based on their roles and significance. Some of the categories include Mother Goddesses, Wild Gods, Harvest Gods, and many others.
- Each deity had a specific set of attributes and characteristics that were unique to them.
- The mythology of pagan gods was passed down through generations orally, creating a wealth of stories that serve as a basis for their beliefs and customs.
Mythology of Pagan gods
The mythology of pagan gods is deeply rooted in symbolism. It represents the natural world and the universe, highlighting the dynamic relationship between humans and nature. The stories of pagan gods are often linked to the changing seasons, which play a significant role in the beliefs of pagan communities. The tales of these gods are a valuable tool to understand pagan beliefs and rituals. Through their mythology, pagans reinforce their connection with nature, and their respect for the earth’s resources.
In some cultures, pagan gods are associated with specific animals, plants or natural phenomena, such as lightning or storms. For instance, Thor, the Norse God of Thunder, is associated with the hammer as his weapon of choice. This hammer is often seen in modern day paganism and is still an important symbol of strength and protection. The mythology of pagan gods provides deep insights into the values, customs, and beliefs of the pagan community.
Mythology of Pagan gods
Below is a table of some of the most well-known pagan gods and their corresponding regions and attributes:
| God/Goddess | Region | Attributes |
|---|---|---|
| Apollo | Greek | God of music, healing, and prophecy |
| Cernunnos | Celtic | God of fertility and the underworld |
| Diana | Roman | Goddess of hunting and childbirth |
| Freya | Norse | Goddess of love, fertility, and war |
| Pan | Greek | God of nature, the wild, and music |
The mythology of pagan gods is vast and profound, and the deity that one chooses to worship often reflects their values, principles, and beliefs. Each god has their own story, symbolisms, and historical significance that give insight into the rich history of pagan culture.
Ancient Pagan gods and goddesses
Most pagan religions have various deities that they worship, both male and female. These deities are often associated with nature, fertility, creation, and destruction. Here are some of the ancient pagan gods and goddesses that were commonly worshipped:
- Gaia: Also known as the Earth Mother, Gaia was the goddess of the earth and nature. She was often depicted as a woman with horns on her head or as a serpent.
- Thor: Among the Norse gods, Thor was the god of thunder, lightning, and storm. He was often seen holding a hammer and rode a chariot pulled by goats. Many pagans still worship him today.
- Isis: In ancient Egyptian religion, Isis was the goddess of fertility, motherhood, magic, and wisdom. She was often depicted as a woman with cow horns on her head, and her worship spread throughout the Mediterranean world.
There are also many other deities that were worshipped by pagans depending on their location and culture. In some cases, certain deities were only worshipped by specific groups of people or in certain regions.
Many pagans today continue to worship these ancient gods and goddesses, either as part of a larger religious tradition or as individual practitioners. Some modern pagans have even created new deities based on ancient mythology or their own personal beliefs.
If you’re interested in learning more about pagan gods and goddesses, there are many resources available both online and in print. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just starting to explore paganism, there is much to discover about the rich world of ancient pagan deities.
| Deity | Culture/Religion | Associations/Powers |
|---|---|---|
| Gaia | Greek | Earth, nature, fertility |
| Thor | Norse | Thunder, lightning, storm |
| Isis | Egyptian | Fertility, motherhood, magic, wisdom |
Overall, the worship of ancient pagan gods and goddesses is still a vibrant and meaningful practice for many people today. Whether as part of a larger tradition or as personal spirituality, these deities continue to inspire and empower their followers around the world.
Contemporary Pagan gods and goddesses
While ancient Pagan religions worshipped a wide range of gods and goddesses, contemporary Paganism has a focus on modern deities that are relevant to modern life and beliefs. These deities are often associated with nature, feminism, and personal spirituality.
- Gaia: Also known as Mother Earth, Gaia is a goddess of nature who is worshipped for her life-giving and nurturing qualities.
- Cernunnos: This Celtic god of fertility and the hunt is often worshipped by Pagans who follow a nature-based spiritual path.
- Hecate: A Greek goddess of witchcraft, magic, and crossroads, Hecate is a popular deity among modern Pagans who practice witchcraft.
In addition, many modern Pagans also worship a variety of gods and goddesses from other cultures, such as the Hindu deity Shiva or the Celtic goddess Brigid. These deities are often worshipped for their attributes that resonate with the individual’s beliefs and values.
Contemporary Pagans also create their own gods and goddesses based on their personal experiences and spiritual beliefs. These deities are often called “personal gods” and reflect the individual’s unique relationship with the divine.
Divine Pantheon of Contemporary Paganism
| Deity Name | Origin | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Gaia | Greek | Goddess of nature, life-giving, nurturing qualities |
| Cernunnos | Celtic | God of fertility, the hunt, nature-based spirituality |
| Hecate | Greek | Goddess of witchcraft, magic, crossroads |
| Shiva | Hindu | God of destruction, transformation, liberation |
| Brigid | Celtic | Goddess of poetry, healing, smithcraft |
Overall, contemporary Paganism allows for a diverse range of gods and goddesses to be worshipped. Whether it is an ancient deity or a personal god created by the individual, modern Pagans honor these deities for their qualities and attributes that resonate with their beliefs and values.
Importance of the Moon in Pagan Worship
The moon plays a crucial role in Pagan worship as it represents the feminine aspect of divinity and is associated with magic, intuition, and emotional power. Here are four ways in which the moon is central to pagan worship:
- Lunar cycles: Pagans pay close attention to the phases of the moon, as they believe that each lunar cycle has a different energy and meaning. For example, the new moon is seen as a time of new beginnings and setting intentions, while the full moon is a time for manifestation and amplification of magic.
- Reverence and offerings: Pagan rituals often involve paying homage to the moon through offerings and prayers. These offerings can include herbs, crystals, and other items that are associated with lunar energy.
- Manifestation of feminine energy: The moon is seen as a symbol of femininity, and its cycles are correlated with the menstrual cycle. As such, the moon is a focal point for honoring and celebrating the divine feminine, which is often undervalued and suppressed in modern society
- Guidance and divination: Many Pagan practitioners use the moon as a tool for divination. They read the tarot or other oracle cards under the light of the full moon, or use the moon’s energy to enhance their psychic abilities.
In summary, the moon is an integral part of Pagan worship, and its energy and symbolism are woven into many rituals and practices. By paying attention to the cycles of the moon, offering reverence and gratitude to its energy, and using it as a tool for guidance and divination, Pagans can deepen their connection with the divine and with the natural world.
Sacrifice and Offering Rituals in Pagan Religion
Pagan religion has a long history of worshiping and giving offerings to various gods and spirits. These rituals often involve the sacrifice of animals, plants, or other valuable objects. Here are five key aspects of sacrifice and offering rituals in Pagan religion:
- Offerings: Offerings can take many forms, but they are all gifts given to the gods or spirits. Some examples include food, drink, flowers, incense, or other valuable objects.
- Sacrifice: Animal sacrifice is perhaps the most well-known form of sacrifice in Pagan religion. However, some Pagans choose to sacrifice other things, like their time, energy, or possessions, as a way of giving back to the gods.
- Ritual: Sacrifice and offering rituals follow a specific pattern or structure, which often includes purification, invocation, offerings, and prayer or meditation.
- Symbology: The symbols used in sacrifice and offering rituals can vary depending on the tradition or deity being addressed. For example, some Pagans may use a ritual knife to represent the god or goddess they are offering to, or use specific herbs or colors in their offerings to symbolize different aspects of the divine.
- Intention: The intention behind sacrifice and offering rituals is key. These rituals are not performed just for the sake of making an offering, but as a way of building a deeper connection with the divine and fostering a sense of gratitude and reverence for the gifts we have received.
In many Pagan traditions, sacrifice and offering rituals are seen as essential components of religious practice. These rituals help connect us to the divine, honor the gods and spirits, and remind us of the interconnectedness of all things.
| Deity/God | Sacrifice/Offering |
|---|---|
| Hecate | Garlic, honey, eggs, fish |
| Thor | Meat, mead |
| Cerridwen | Grain, mead, flowers |
As Pagans continue to honor their gods and spirits through sacrifice and offering rituals, they remind us of the importance of gratitude, reverence, and connection in our relationship with the divine.
Festivals and Celebrations of Pagan Gods and Goddesses
As pagans follow a diverse set of traditions and beliefs, the gods and goddesses they worship depend on their individual paths. However, there are certain festivals and celebrations that have become widely recognized across various pagan communities. These events are typically linked to the cycles of nature, the changing seasons, and important dates in pagan history.
Six Festivals of the Wheel of the Year
- Samhain: Celebrated on October 31 to November 1, Samhain marks the beginning of the Celtic new year and the end of the harvest season. It is a time to honor ancestors, reflect on mortality, and prepare for the winter season.
- Yule: Observed on the winter solstice (around December 20-23), Yule marks the longest night of the year and the rebirth of the sun. Many pagans celebrate with feasts, decorating evergreen trees, and lighting candles to symbolize warmth and hope.
- Imbolc: Celebrated on February 1-2, Imbolc is a time of purification and renewal. As the first signs of spring appear, pagans honor the goddess Brigid and light candles to welcome her blessings.
- Ostara: Observed on the spring equinox (around March 20-23), Ostara is a celebration of the returning light and fertility. Many pagans decorate eggs, plant seeds, and perform rituals to honor the goddess Eostre.
- Beltane: Celebrated on May 1, Beltane marks the beginning of summer and the union of the god and goddess. Pagans often build maypoles, dance, and light bonfires to represent the joy and passion of the season.
- Litha: Observed on the summer solstice (around June 20-23), Litha is a time of abundance and growth. Many pagans celebrate by taking part in outdoor rituals, collecting herbs, and making offerings to the sun god.
Other Festivals and Celebrations
In addition to the Wheel of the Year events, there are many other festivals and celebrations that pagans may observe based on their individual beliefs and cultural traditions. Some of these include:
- The Feast of Hecate: Celebrated on November 16, this festival honors the Greek goddess of magic, witchcraft, and the night.
- The Festival of Diana: Observed on August 13, this festival honors the Roman goddess of the moon, hunt, and childbirth.
- The Celtic Fire Festival of Lughnasadh: Celebrated on August 1, Lughnasadh is a time to honor the god Lugh and give thanks for the first harvest.
Table of Correspondences
Many pagans use correspondences to help connect with the energy and symbolism of the gods and goddesses they worship. These can include colors, herbs, stones, and other elements associated with each deity. Here is a table of correspondences for some of the most widely worshiped pagan gods and goddesses:
| Deity | Correspondences |
|---|---|
| Brigid | White, yellow, red; dandelion, ivy, lavender; quartz, citrine, topaz |
| Cernunnos | Green, brown, black; oak, pine, mugwort; onyx, agate, obsidian |
| Diana | Silver, white; willow, jasmine, heather; moonstone, pearl, selenite |
| Freya | Gold, red, blue; yarrow, thyme, rose; amber, garnet, lapis lazuli |
| Pan | Brown, green; cedar, ivy, patchouli; tiger’s eye, moss agate, jasper |
Using correspondences can be a powerful way to enhance one’s spiritual practice and connect with the essence of the gods and goddesses that they worship.
Influence of Paganism on modern spirituality
Paganism has had a significant impact on modern spirituality, as many of its beliefs and practices have been adopted by individuals seeking alternative ways of connecting with the divine. One such example is the concept of the number 7, which plays a prominent role in many pagan traditions.
The number 7 is considered a sacred number in pagan belief systems, representing a myriad of concepts and themes. Below are seven examples of how the number 7 is utilized in pagan practices:
- Seven directions: many pagan belief systems recognize seven directions – north, south, east, west, above, below, and within. Each direction is associated with specific energies, spirits, and elements, and working with them can enhance spiritual connection and manifestation.
- Seven chakras: in various spiritual traditions, the body is said to contain energy centers called chakras. Many pagan systems recognize seven primary chakras, each associated with a different aspect of the human experience and emotional state.
- Seven stars of the Big Dipper: in some pagan traditions, the seven stars of the Big Dipper are associated with the seven goddesses of fate. Each goddess governs a specific aspect of life, such as love, war, and fertility.
- Seven-day week: the modern seven-day week is said to have originated from the seven celestial objects used to track time in ancient cultures. Many pagan traditions acknowledge the importance of observing cycles and use the seven-day week as a way to honor this.
- Seven colors of the rainbow: the rainbow is often associated with divine messages and guidance in pagan traditions. Each color has its own symbolism and meaning, and working with them can aid in spiritual growth and manifestation.
- Seven candles: in many pagan rituals, seven candles are used to represent the seven energies or spirits that are being invoked. Each candle is typically associated with a particular color and intention, enhancing the spiritual energy of the ritual.
- Seven virtues: many pagan systems recognize seven primary virtues – love, courage, wisdom, justice, hope, temperance, and faith. These virtues are considered essential for leading a fulfilling and enlightened life.
Influence of Paganism on modern spirituality
Paganism has also influenced modern spirituality through its emphasis on the natural world and the interconnectedness of all life. In many pagan belief systems, nature is considered a source of divine wisdom and healing, and the cyclical rhythms of the seasons are honored through ritual and celebration.
Paganism encourages individuals to develop a personal relationship with the divine, rather than relying on intermediaries such as priests or religious texts. This emphasis on personal experience and intuition can liberate individuals from dogmatic beliefs and encourage a deeper sense of autonomy and self-awareness.
Additionally, paganism’s focus on community and inclusivity can provide a sense of belonging and support for individuals who have been marginalized by mainstream religions. Many pagan traditions welcome individuals of all genders, sexual orientations, and cultural backgrounds, celebrating the diversity of human experience and expression.
| Pagan Traditions | Beliefs and Practices |
|---|---|
| Wicca | Worship of a dual deity – the god and the goddess – and emphasis on magic, nature, and personal empowerment |
| Asatru | Worship of the Norse gods and goddesses and emphasis on virtues such as courage, hospitality, and kinship |
| Druidism | Reverence for nature and the seasons, use of divination and ritual, and emphasis on knowledge, creativity, and wisdom |
Overall, paganism has been a powerful force in shaping modern spirituality and providing individuals with alternative ways of connecting with the divine. Its emphasis on personal experience, natural wisdom, and inclusivity can offer a transformative and empowering path for those seeking a deeper sense of purpose and connection in life.
FAQs on What Gods Do Pagans Worship?
Q: Who are some of the most commonly worshiped gods in paganism?
A: Some of the most commonly worshiped gods in paganism include Odin, Thor, Freyja, and Isis among others.
Q: Do pagans worship only one god?
A: No, pagans worship a variety of deities, depending on their religious tradition and personal beliefs.
Q: How do pagans connect with their gods?
A: Pagans use various methods to connect with their gods, including prayer, ritual, meditation, and divination.
Q: Do pagans believe in the existence of a higher power or Creator?
A: While some pagans do believe in a higher power or Creator, many others acknowledge the existence of multiple gods and goddesses.
Q: Are pagans required to worship specific gods?
A: No, pagans are free to worship any god or goddess that resonates with them.
Q: Are the gods worshiped by pagans associated with specific natural phenomena or forces?
A: Many pagan gods and goddesses are associated with natural phenomena such as the sun, moon, stars, earth, and sea.
Q: What is the significance of animal symbolism in pagan god worship?
A: Many pagan gods and goddesses are associated with specific animals or animal symbolism, which is believed to represent various qualities and characteristics.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading about what gods pagans worship! Paganism is an ancient and diverse religious tradition that continues to evolve and flourish today. Whether you are drawn to the gods and goddesses of Norse, Celtic, Egyptian, or other traditions, there is a wealth of knowledge and insight to be gained from exploring this vibrant spiritual path. Be sure to visit us again for more informative articles!