Neo-Paganism: Difference between revisions

* Modern Druidism has originated in the 18th century and is based on the practices of the Celtic Druids in Britain and Ireland. Much of their religion is based on belief that dead souls are reincarnated in the Otherworld and stay there until they are reborn in our plane of existence. This cycle continues until a soul is able to reach the "highest realm." They also celebrate holidays every four months by having bonfires on top of hills.

** Reincarnation is just one part of a complex belief system and isn't even accepted by all Druids. Much more focus is put on becoming in tune with the four Western elements, with the natural passage of time and with oneself. It's also important to note that there are several branches of Druidry all over the world and their practices differ from one another while their core beliefs are largely the same. There are also 8 holidays in the Druid calendar, although bonfires are optional.

* Witchcraft, though not a religion but a metaphysical path is one of these many beliefs. A Witch is different from a Wiccan, for Wicca has a general set of rules. Witches make their own rules and follow them. Any person can practice witchcraft. You can be a witch but still be a Catholic. Many believe that Wicca and witchcraft are one in the same, which isn't true. However that doesn't stop people who [[Did Not Do the Research|didn't do the research]] from complaining.

* Celtic Reconstruction is a more recent movement. Most of its adherents follow the Irish pantheon, but as the name implies, followers of other "Celtic" traditions (Welsh, Scottish, Manx, Cornish, Breton) can fall into this category. Though it overlaps somewhat with druidism, it is distinct in that Celtic Reconstructionism has a greater emphasis on historical documents, analyzing surviving mythology, and looking towards archaeology for clues; eschewing the 18th century roots of modern Druidism. The process is somewhat complicated in that the ancient Celts would not write down anything related to their religion. Much of what survives is in the form of mythology written down by monks following the coming of Christianity.