I hope you enjoyed this video! In your opinion what are some of the main differences between the Pagan & Christian worldview? I'm looking forward to reading all your thoughts.
For me the main difference between the church I was raised in and paganism is the freedom to choose according to my conscience. The Christian sect I belonged to used constant guilt and manipulation. It wasn't just major "sins" but every little quirk or interest that didn't exactly follow the outlined "proper" personality. They would say something was a matter for your own conscience, but if you chose wrong, they'd avoid you socially as "bad association." That's a lot of pressure.
@edwardtone there is a difference between Pagan & Christian: you can either learn all that, about the points and angels, or you can mindlessly accept jesus, say "praise jesus" and put a buck in the basket.
@@susysnakegirl there is a difference between Pagan & Christian: you can either learn all that, about the big wide open world of freedom to choose, or you can mindlessly accept jesus, say "praise jesus" and put a buck in the basket...comfortably conformed to the external pressure applied. Truly much easier than burdening yourself with the complexity of freedom to choose.
@@mkelkar1 there is a difference between Pagan & Christian: you can either learn all that, about the many names and attributes of a timeless all powerful people can only hope to try to describe, but never know complete, the AllMightyB33All , or you can mindlessly accept jesus, say "praise jesus" and put a buck in the basket, and really not need to know much of anything, as the fellow peers will quickly point out if you say or do wrong
If you include Second-Temple Judaism under the "Pagan" umbrella - not everyone would - the Christian Pascha is derived from the Jewish festival Pesach, and the Christian Pentecost is derived from the Jewish festival Shauvot. The Proto-orthodox Christian Epiphany emerged from the syncretic Helleno-Kemetic dedication festival of the god Aion's temple in Alexandria. Christmas was, however, not derived from the Roman festival of Sol Invictus, because the chronology doesn't end up: A few Christian thinkers began to second-guess about when Jesus actually was born, and wrote those speculations down already in the 220's, i.e. half a century BEFORE Emperor Aurelian invented the festival of Sol Invictus. On the other hand, Christmas probably achieved popularity during the 4th and 5th centuries, because Pagan folk customs formerly associated with Brumalia, Saturnalia and New Year's Eve came to be associated with Christian Christmas. In the Germanic-speaking world, a few words formerly used to designate pre-Christian festivals (or entire seasons of the year) clung to the recently imported (already existing abroad) Christian festivals: "Yule", "Easter" and "Lent" are examples of that in English, "Oster" in German" and "Jul" in Scandinavian languages. The widely spread idea that Samhain was invented to assist conversion in 5th century Ireland and caused the invention of Halloween is an urban legend, because things happened at the wrong places at the wrong times for that idea to work. Both in Rome and in Ireland group-memorials of "all martyrs" or "all saints" emerged in the early 7th century, but held in April (Ireland) or May (Rome). The church in Rome later switched date to 1st of November, and it spread to the Carolingian Empire in 835, from there at unknown pace to the Anglo-Saxon and Irish kingdoms. "All Souls' day" wasn't added until 998, but that happened in a monastery in Cluny, France, not in Ireland either. That said, the folk customs reported to be associated to Halloween in Ireland at later dates, MIGHT (or might not) be derived from pre-Christian customs formerly associated with Samhain. It's just not the one-to-one equivalence some writers wish it to be. And remember, something may be useful without being old. And then there's the very suspicious feast day of St. Hermes ...
The Nordic peoples of the pre Christian period tended to believe that the god(s) that you worship is/was tied in many ways to where you were geographically. For me the biggest difference between Christianity and the old ways, is the way that Christianity uses the threat of damnation to get compliance with no room for doubt. By contrast, Odinn offers an example of leadership, follow or not it is up to the individual.
Yup. Thats always been my problem with Christianity. Obedience through fear. No matter how good you are you go to hell without obedience and "true faith"
@A F actually it does. Anyone who's read it and studied it knows it. Follow the rules or go to hell, worship me or go to hell, oh you lead a good life? Oops didn't spread my word so off to hell. There's a reason many turned away from Christianity. It's a religion to keep you in line by threat of eternal damnation and requires you to kneel before an egocentric god
It's so beautiful. I am a hindu and we believe that religion is a personal journey to the God, no path is wrong. Much love to you and there are so many positive comments here it makes it so wholesome..... much love to you. ❤️
I like Hindu i have Hindu status in my house of ganesha. He a lovely symple in my house. I dont like how Christians says its bad etc. I'm a pagan and I like Buddhist and Hindu ways of life. Nothing wrong with it. I had to push christians out my life cause i actualy had enough of their narrow minded ways. How can that be bad ? Too narrow for me.
@@seonaghjedlicka3570 in Matthew 7 Jesus says - “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it”. 🤍
@@seonaghjedlicka3570 Just curious, but are you by any chance Russian or Ukrainian? *Rig Veda 10.23.4* "With him is this rains: Indra throws drops of moisture on his yellow beard" *Rig Veda 1.100.18* “Indra attacked the Dasyus and Śimyus; won the land with his white-skinned friends” *Rig Veda 1.130.8* “Indra defends his Ārya worshiper. He consumes the malignant; he tore off the b_______ skin; and him who delights in cruelty.” *Rig Veda. 2.20.6* "Indra, slayer of Vritra, scattered the Dasyus sprang from a b______ womb." *Rig Veda 3.34.9* "Indra gained possession of the Sun, Horses, Cow. He struck the Dasyus, and gave protection to the Ārya tribe." *Rig Veda 9.73.5* “They roared in unison, burning up riteless men, Blowing away the b______ skin which Indra hates.”
Two of my favorite old faith songs one about a man killing god, his angels, demons and taking over and the other is about sacrificing criminals ruclips.net/video/Ge-b670H_rA/видео.html and the other is ruclips.net/video/sXuL7XZOt-k/видео.html
I enjoy your way of explaining things. I was in Christianity for over thirty years. I feel so much happier and freer now. I can be myself and I'm not conscious of sin all the time. I can love myself and don't live in fear with so many unliveable rules. My mental health is much better. I'm so happy in my Pagan path. I'd love to hear a part 2 of this.
As an Christian man, I appreciate you trying to be as objective as possible by using bible verses. I also appreciate you explaining things in a way of how each religion is different and not trying to make it seem like one is better than the other.
Then she's lying or being politically correct . . . *Matthew 7:15-16* “Beware of false prophets, who come in sheep's clothing but are ravenous wolves." *Matthew 24:11* And many false prophets will appear and deceive many people." *2-John 1:7* "Deceivers who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh is the _Antichrist."_ *1-John 2:22* “Whoever denies that Jesus is the Christ, such a person is the _Antichrist_ *Revelation: **20:11* "And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever."
@@user-k4d-e59mo28oc The problem with Christians is they consult their bible, instead of thinking for themselves. Christianity seeks to destroy our Aryan ancestry and connection to our ethnic spiritual roots, and to tie us down as slaves to a jealous vengeful God; it is literally soul possession by another entity.
@@user-k4d-e59mo28oc Tell that to Joel Olstien and those like him...She isn't a preacher or minister or pope or anything like that so your judgement of her is not only wrong but also not yours to have, that is God's job isn't it? Or was I deceived when being told this was in the Bible and the word of God? Baptist is the most judgemental bunch of nobody's who think they are somebody important and they aren't!! Bunch of 2-Faced Hypocrites!! 😒🤬
As someone who grew up as Orthodox Christian and who had religion class in highschool, all what you said about their views are actually true. It's been 4 years by now since I left the religion and I still am cleaning myself from all fears and shames that oppressive Christian teachings put onto me. And still learning to love myself as I am.
@@ExploreTanakh24 I also read the scripture. Back then I found out that teacher who lectured me religion in highschool (when I was 15-16) didn't have her own opinions, but was basically repeating the scripture, so yeah. It was so full of contradictions and morally dubious parts that I put it down and didn't return to it again.
@@RebelWvlf - why didn't you look at some study tools and find a pastor? those romanised traditions are against the bible. I don't agree with the traditions of men like priests follow as I find them very ignorant. I dialogued a head Anglican leader and he had no knowledge. Very few are bible believers. There are some good pastors out there that are not into the TV Preacher cults. Have you met any good ones? Many churches go against Mark 7, Col 2:8, 2 Peter 2 etc..
This is why I love being Pagan it has more freedom, no Judgement you can be who YOU want to be. My advice to new Pagans is that I know it's scary leaving and you don't know where to start and that is fine a lot of us have been where you are and we are here ready to answer questions and give advice.
@@jaxthewolf4572 I read these books when I was still a Christian and they really helped: Razing Hell by Sharon Baker and Love Wins by Rob Bell. The whole concept of hell doesn't make sense to me anymore. How could a God who is supposed to be all-loving send people to hell forever? Why did he create them then?
@@jaxthewolf4572 It's actually quite easy. Once you start treating their threats of hell and sinning as abusive relationship ("you are horrible person and you need me to be better", "you are nothing without me", "if you do this one more time...."), it is becoming quite easy to get rid of it.
@@leenbee17 Thank you for the suggestions and you are right. Why would a loving God allow eternal suffering. And if God is all knowing, than he knows where everyone will end up after death before they were born. A loving and all knowing God would create everyone knowing their souls are safe.
@@RebelWvlf Thank you for your words and it does make sense. "If you leave me, there will be consequences." The God of the OT does sound like an abusive lover.
I appreciate this video. I grew up in a very Christian home. Was raised to fear and love God. My husband was raised in a more new age Christian house hold. It took years for me to not be scared that God was going to punish me for adopting his methods of practice. I have been fascinated in learning more on paganism and tarot and other mystical things. I think what attracts me to them is their long life in history. Paganism, tarot and other forms of divination and astrology were here way before Christ as well. I want to learn everything I can about multiple faiths and religions. The original message and texts of God have been distorted and altered from the hands of man through time. Men that wanted to control people changed their interpretation of the Bible and even removed books from the Bible. I’m still sitting on the fence about denouncing my Christianity. I’m learning everyday and the tight hold of my parents version of the religion is still loosening. I think I will always be torn with my spiritual believes. I guess my path will be long and windy one lol. I do look forward to a part two of this video! 💜
For me, the Source, God and the Earth Mother are all the same energy. Just some of the 10,000 names that Isis has. People are arguing over different labels of the same thing.
Behind every great source of god, is a female deity Earth Mother SOURCE ... all the story helps understanding and the deity helps define purpose of self and others in this world ... but ultimately, if you learn enough and practice the knowledge to experience the real ... everybody finds it all becomes increasingly more similar, same ... All One ... AlONE
It’s like finding a needle in a haystack, but not all Christians are closed minded. I just don’t care for the ones who claim “our way or the highway (a fiery hell). As a Christian who was raised in the Church, I’m holding myself accountable and trying to do better in respecting other paths. One part I find myself disagreeing with is the misogyny. There are several verses in the Bible that order women to be seen and not heard. I like that paganism has women equal to men and not below them. I am ashamed of all the injustice Christianity has caused and I’m sorry. The Church needs to do better. Way better.
@@RoseStream83 look, if we die, we die. The bible even says that death is inevitable, except to those in the last generation (right before Jesus's Second Coming), but when we die we "sleep"..neither going to heaven or hell, but awaiting Jesus's judgment. The only difference is that the righteous will live on earth forever with Jesus when he returns, whereas the sinners will be thrown into the lake of fire to die. www.bibleinfo.com/en/questions/what-does-bible-say-about-death
You misunderstood it... Christians belief that to live is Christ and to die is gain... It means we live for Christ and when we die its a gain for us because we will be reunited to the author and perfecter of our faith.
The greatest difference is that monotheism took on the structure of orthodoxy within its early development, that is just so normalized people don't even see it's there, and paganism does not have such orthodoxy.
I deconverted from Christianity last year in November, and I used witchcraft and pagan practices as a way to help facilitate my process because it is so difficult to leave a very structured religion without any transitional spiritual practices. Which is how I found my way out and way to cope. I love witchcraft and paganism because of the lack of fundamentalism and strict norms. Thank you for making this video and I hope christians can see this and learn more about how beautiful spirituality can be outside of abrahamic religions
I think we can find structure and strict norms outside of abrahamic religions as well. Most us can agree that some actions are very very bad and deserve to be handled strictly. Fortunately many Pagan gods were known for rapid justice and values of honor and purity. I think if Christians see more of that, they can identify with those desires and appreciate this perspective more
@Mike Knight Pagans threw sinners into the bogs. The people here aren't even genuinely pagan, they just want to live without consequences, or at least define those consequences themselves as if they are the gods. Really it's already taken hold in the worst ways and we're still here. Not good
I honestly think that Abrahamic religions need a serious makeover. Not unlike how Paganism has. It’s become far more flexible & tolerant than it was originally. That being said however, I think the Abrahamic religions are slowly becoming that, it’ll just take time
Self-Empowerment vs. the Higher Power - this is the aspect that drew me away from Christianity toward Paganism in my early teens, and has cemented it as an adult. Christianity from my experience has a lot of "Let Go, Let God" and "He Works in Mysterious Ways", all implying that God has a higher plan for you, and you have no control over it. Especially during difficult times, the idea of just having faith in His Plan® and it will all work out/be ok, not only sounded like a copout, but made me feel weak and powerless. The pagan ideals that we all have control over our actions and the repercussions that come from them, that we can work WITH the world around us for cleansing or strength - those resonated more with me.
Namaste to all my Pagen Brothers and Sisters. In Hinduism the most important thing is indeed your Actions. Faith does not matter but what matters are you Actions. The word that we use for Actions is Karma. Its your Krama that would decide your fate in this life in your future births. After following this channel I see a lot of similarities between Hinduism and other Pagan philosophies.
I would also enjoy seeing a video on the common ground of spirituality between pagan, new age, and main-stream religion. Off the top of my head, they all transcend the material realm, provide identity, have solitary practices, options of community, ritual, and so on. Someone said that witchcraft is prayer with tools, which is an interesting comparison!
In my opinion, you’re more likely not to be “saved” if you’re Christian. There are so many guidelines you must follow, including the rejection of basic human instincts and that always rubbed me the wrong way. It’s what made me leave. I technically would have already sinned and not made it. Why should I have to please one being that won’t let me in to eternal peace for a stupid reason and send me to burn for eternity? Like the book says, it’s harder to get in to Heaven then it is to get a camel through the eye of a needle. Also, in my experience, those following and/or raised knowing Christianity tend to be more close minded while claiming to be open, accepting, and loving. And that is my biggest pet peeve.
Mike Knight I never understood how “Jesus became our sin and took it away” when all most Christians I know talk about how everybody still sins and is full of sin. I’ve gotten yelled at and told I’m going to Hell for being bisexual. The Bible doesn’t even say anything against homosexuality. The translators replaced a word that meant pedophile for homosexual. There are some really awful people that “are going to Heaven” because they attend church a couple times a week. There are just so many things you can do “wrong” and so much “sin” in the world that still still exists, so I really don’t believe he saved all of us these days. To me, there are so many holes in the Bible, so many things that either contradict each other, don’t make sense, or shouldn’t apply today. It’s definitely not my ideal religion, especially not anymore. I grew up Christian but it never felt right for me. I like paganism, how I don’t have to “worship” one God that claims to be all powerful but really just seems to like playing around with people so they “praise his name”. Jesus is a pretty cool guy though. I’ll probably work with him in the future, but I like having all of those other deities as well
Just a small little nitpick: It's harder for *a rich man* to get into heaven than it is for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle. This was in response to Jesus telling a rich man to sell all he has and distribute it among the poor and then follow him. But yeah, the modern culture of Christianity is very closed-minded and often welded together with white supremacy, patriarchy, capitalism, heteronormativity, and ableism.
I've always thought of Christianity as a good "starter religion" ... you can easily out grow it and go on to learn better, yet some of the principles remain true ...on the other hand, if you listened to some ridiculous, hypnotic mind control preacher making use of Christian terminology, then I'm sorry for you, as that isn't Christianity, but Insanity. It is sad that more Christians are not willing to step up to clean up the credibility of their own religion, as the Insanity is Incredible
Following Dogma is any religion is not a good thing. Jesus was just a regular man. Believing anything else is just erroneous beliefs. He was not Born with no mortal father and was not resurrected. There is just so much wrong with following dogmatic religious beliefs ./ Its basically Dark Occultism. It lifts a humans natural ability to sense who they are and where they come from. Religion is pretty much all Dark. So, we all get stuck being controlled by a Religious Cult, we call Government. Its all Mind Control
If you break down the Etymology of Government, - Govern is a Man made Authority. to control or Steer. Ment is the Form of Action or the mind,. So Government really means Mind Control too. The Church is also Man made authority. True faith can only be shown in a secular environment. There is only 1 Truth and it does not depend on anyone;s Point of View. God is not, nor will ever be a Deity. Its Nature. The Laws of the Physical AND the Meta.
I'm a solitary witch with an atheist husband who comes from a traditional southern Baptist family. The thing that stands out most to me is their predilection to judge others for their religious views. In my practice, I fully believe that if it harms no one, then believe/practice that which brings joy. From my in-laws, it is not that way. They see sinfulness in all things and are compelled to not only point it out in others, but to pass judgement on them for it. There is great difficulty with our relationship because of this. Live and let live does not resonate well.
You said it: " I fully believe that if it harms no one, then believe/practice that " ... their actions hurt people like you, and they know their actions hurt ... and sadly they may see the hurt they cause as sucsess of their actions, meaning they want to hurt you until you change ... because they are fully acting in accordance with the opposite of your belief " that if it harms no one, then believe/practice that "
@Doc Savage YES! That is the point really ... All people All One Equality ... universal love is something universally a part of all ... ALL ONE ... Alone people find the whole world they know, All the world that is know to you alone ... so yes, uh, the stuff some peole judge or fear is actually just some other part or reflection of themselves ... while becoming whole is inclusive, accepting all ... YES! That is the real Truth, what you said
Be careful with the “do what you want” philosophy. It was coined by Alastair Crowley who was a satanist. Also I can understand why people think Christians are judgmental and it’s sad for me to hear people use doctrines in this way. I am a Christian who genuinely tries to follow Christ’s example.
@@jillianh7565 "do what you want" is actually like marry whom you love and want to marry, compared with marry who you are told to marry ... it isn't any type of permission to do heinous behavior .... and my point about hypocrisy is that too many followers don't step up to condemn bad practices ... judgemental discernment is a life skill, and discernment of bad behavior that discredits your own religion or deity, should be identified; "called out" Far too long, it has been, that some religion is used as a cover for racist/oppressive activity. People within a religion should be more vocal to oppose bad tradition and expell oppressive behaviors, rather than turn a blind eye and simply declare oneself a "good follower" of the same religion, while not going f7ar enough to declare the oppressive or hypocritical behavior as clearly NOT part of their religion. Be careful with blanket religious acceptance as that might be used as a tool of corruption
switchjim I strive to follow Jesus Christ’s example, not a denomination. It’s funny how people think their religion is correct when Jesus taught us that God hates religion. He would rather have a personal relationship with us than a relationship predicated on vain repetition. Jesus said “21 “Not everyone who says to Me, (B)‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who (C)does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we (D)not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And (E)then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; (F)depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’” Matthew 7:21-23
Read my comments at the top of this video! I shared alot of things that might fall into interest for you! I had to split the text in half and I wrote it in a comment of mine. It’s about Valhall and the Afterlife, beliefs of Odinism / Paganism. I really hope you read it!
i've been christin since birth As of the start of 2020, i've been feeling scared of jesus. I was disgusted with the fact that i would not go to heaven for being me so i started to yeet him out of my life. I now feel so much better and happier with being a pagen
@@Fallen-Saint I need to clap for this comment. I have a strong belief that this man tried to say that he is attracted to boys, which makes your religion judgy due to being sent to hell. Let the man believe what he wants. Don’t let your ego go out there and call another man foolish just because he no longer share your beliefs. This is why christianity makes me sick. When a christian push their faith on you almost as they are god himself and not respecting you as a person, they have been going against their own faith by their actions. You just did. Stop judging
@@N0skGaming i love him so I told me not to, like when a father tells there child no to do something that could end up bad. But you on the other hand is saying to do, do something that could be bad. This isn't just imaginary stuff to him nor to me, what ever spirits he talks to could well be lieing to him same as any one person, but this is worst because a spirit is a spirit and can affect things in the spirit realm let's just say he dose something wrong depending on that entity, it may just be forgiven or, worst... He or something/someone would die. It's foolish to say stop judging, if I do that in the most literal sense wouldn't I die? I need to judge especially with that of a sound and clear mind ya know.
@@Fallen-Saint “Smart people learn from everything and everyone. Average people learn from their experiences. Ignorant people only care about gossip, food and s__. Stupid people already have the answers.” ~ Socrates
I'm a Christian who's in a relationship with a pagan. I love her to death, but I feel like there's a massive disconnection when it comes to religion. We're both trying to understand each other and learn each other, and I think this is a good example of our differences. I will probably show her this!
An excellent job, Scarlet! I hope you'll make more videos like this. This is a very thoughtful and intelligent discussion of the two worldviews. I would respectfully ask to allow me to add a couple of thoughts from my own perspective as a practicing polytheist. For me the essential difference between Pagan and Christion worldviews is that we Pagans and polytheists have a hugely different take on our relationship to nature. Pagans say that we are not apart from or distinct from nature, that nature is what gives us life and form, what sustains us. We are part of nature, not its master. We do not look down on what is natural but revere it. We don't think of nature as evil. We revere and worship the Gods who may manifest themselves through and in nature. Christianity, on the other hand, holds nature as evil and beneath us, a thing to be conquered, used and tossed away, a thing that cannot help our spirituality. You did discuss this in your presentation. On the Mercy vs. Warrior issue, I'm not exactly sure that Christianity is all that merciful and peaceful. The history of Western Christianity is a history replete with much bloodshed, persecutions, wars, and violence. The early Christian Church was rife with doctrinal arguments that often led to violence between the orthodox factions and the opposition. The Crusades against the Muslims; the wars fought during and after the Reformation between Protestant Christian and Catholic Christian rulers in Europe; the suppression of dissenters by most Christian churches; the oppression and degradation of women (including their exclusion from the R.C. clergy to this day); the persecution of the Jews in Europe; the teaching that slavery was not sinful; the forced conversions of the indigenous peoples in South America; the "just war" teaching. The list goes on. I submit that Christianity does not qualify for a Nobel prize to show it is a religion devoted to peace and mercy. Thanks for letting me vent. Please consider making another video, you're excellent at leading a discussion.
This a great view my fellow polytheist, now this is something that most monotheist people should have, a respectful, understanding and see commonality to conversation without arguing and enforcing opinions or statements, they can agree and disagree respectfully but it always ends in arguments and disrespect, smh, even amongst other monotheist they argue lol
I am a practicing christian with an academic curiosity about religion in general and paganism in particular. This video is pretty interesting video and from what I can tell it paints a correct image of how christianity and paganism compare. I read some historical fiction set in ancient times some times and I just noticed that the way they speak about religion it comparable to the way you speak.
Check out Dr. Michael Heiser here on YT. He's a teacher of ancient near eastern languages and a Christian. He emphasizes what the claims of the Judeo Christian religion would have sounded like to the ancient pagan mind. And also accepts the reality that pagan deities of "the nations" really existed.
@@Jim-Mc yeah, because those "deities" were the same three people: Baal (aka Nimrod who is mentioned in the bible), Semiramis (she is referred to as "the Queen of Heaven" in the bible), and Tammuz. endrtimes.blogspot.com/2009/08/semiramis-queen-of-heaven-mother-of-god.html?m=1
What you need to do is to study the bible and not listen to what pastors have to say because most of them are liars. Let God lead you while you study. Study the true origins of Christianity and why you shouldn't follow it because it is riddled with paganism because of the Romans. The Christianity of now is not the same as it was right after Jesus died.
I did used to be a christian, but i've gone into a pagan/magical path now. I think your views are very accurate on the differences between the two! Especially with the alfterlife. I used to be so focused on it but now I'm focused on actually living my life, and like you said, the afterlife isn't so important anymore.
You dear Lady are absolutely right on your analysis. As a 62 y.o. female who attended church from the age of 40 days to 19 years of age 6x a week, religious indoctrination was the norm. This actually led me away from the “church”. My grandma was a “closet Shaman”, she had the “gift of sight” and she was highly respected because she knew so much and how to apply that knowledge, (as herbs 🌿, prayers, mantra). I studied the Catholic doctrine, Santeria, Islam and Buddhism and none of them “called to me” but, Paganism has.👍🏽
My take at the moment: I don't see Jesus as solely a meek, humble and merciful peace-nik . He exemplified being a non-violent, spiritual warrior when he continually called out the self proclaimed religious "elite" of the day for their hypocrisy while maintaining a neutral / non-judgmental perspective. Yes, he was much more emphatic, relentless and warrior-like on them than he was on the common person (who didn't espouse to be holier than thou) because, with rare exception, that's the only way they would listen. He was pro war against the individual and collective ego. He talked about "self - empowerment" when reminding people that the kingdom of heaven is within each of us. I would venture to say that Christianity may have just as many facets/ sub-cultures as Paganism but am certainly no expert. More to the point, Jesus - Christianity has been hi-jacked by the religious establishment and used as a control mechanism for sheeple behavior. Thanks for the opportunity to respond to your interesting video
Do you know sites like "Atheists for Jesus" and materials like Jesus Words Only and Jesus vs Paul? Do not judge the title "Atheists", because the guy behind the site takes Jesus' moral teaching more seriously than most christians. It was because of his work and of his peers that I came to understand that Jesus was a incredible man and master of morality, but still a man. That his earliest followers (ebionites) did not worship him and that Paul hijacked his name and turn it in the exact opposite it was intended to be. Sorry for the long post, but I hope it helps you in your journey.
Judging others was just a way of correction, so that the other person wouldn't go down the wrong path. The bible says to judge one another, and it is to be done so with love (where the commandment for loving your neighbor as you would yourself comes from) because people sometimes lose their way (for example addiction). We want to help people, but the word "judge" has been so grossly misused that people take offense to it. Helping one another is the truest form of God's love.
As an exchristian and as someone new to pagan practice, I can definitely relate to this. Nowadays, pagans are definitely less judgemental than christians. In the US, 99% of homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, racism, xenophobia, and other hate that I see comes from christians. To contrast, I know of many LGBTQ people who practice WICCA. There are also so many other things that I can't get behind Christianity on either where paganism just makes much more sense.
I live in the USA. Right now there is a lot of conversations about "Religious Freedom" what bothers me is that some Christians seem to think that this only applies to them. SMH I know that not all Christians are like this but there are enough to make me worried.
It gets stressful if you follow the structure the church has created. If you look at a lot of the rules are historical laws that are based on what was accepted during the time the Bible was written. If you focus on the core of Christianity and don’t get caught in the hysteria of the church it’s got all kinds of uncanny similarities to paganism.
I’ve been doing spells and working with spirits for decades. I was worried some monotheistic boogeyman was going to get me if I contacted gods . Just the opposite. The pagan path opened me up to the gods. Totally interesting. Funny as I work with them, I am learning these qualities you mentioned. Thanks so much for great video!
Read my too comments to find out everything you need! I had to split the text in pieces due to RUclips’s limits when it comes to text! I swear it is all you ever need to know. Hope you do read it in my comments at the top of this video! Skål!
I'm grateful that you added that quote from Marcus Aurelius. A lot of people assume that stoicism is a dry, rational and soulless philosophy when in reality it just promotes discipline and clear thinking.
Such synchronization. I just posted a video about "healing from organized religion". 😇 It's so healing to listen of others' accounts. Much love Scarlet. ❤
Abrahamic? Is that everything other than christianity? 👏🏻👏🏻. Your words are pointless at the end of the day if that is the case of your point. You do realize that, right? When a christian push their faith on you almost as they are god himself and not respecting you as a person, they have been going against their own faith by their actions. You just did. Stop judging cuz of your kind’s enormous ego👊 respect people for who they are and the world will seem happier when they meet you🍻
What do you expect? *Genesis 22:1-18* "God said to Abraham, 'Take your son, your only son, whom you love - Isaac - and *SACRIFICE* him on the mountain' . . . Abraham bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar. Then he took the knife to slay his son. But the angel of the Lord called out to him, 'Do not do anything to him _(APRIL'S FOOL!)._ Now I know that you *FEAR* God. . . Because you have not withheld your only son, Your descendants will take possession of the cities of their *enemies,* because you have _obeyed_ me.'”
A catholic could work with angels or saints. An angel is a supernatural being and a saint is a human that acended to a supernatural state, but neither are considered "gods". So you could be technically monotheistic and practically polytheistic. Protestants don't really talk about saints and angels only when directly mentioned in the bible, so this crossover might be more difficult for them.
My dad is half Borneo pagan and half Catholic. And I'm leaning toward my Borneo paganism. Borneo paganism still practice in Borneo although not many practice, only old people who still practice it. The young ones have no interest in their roots😢
I believe the biggest difference is Pagans view the world as a series of things intertwined to create an outcome, seeing the world as more of an overall conglomeration or amalgamation rather than a single diety's divine plan.
Im a senior at Liberty University. Im a baby wiccan. I should state that I'm just now finding my way into Wicca. I haven't really been Christian for a while and was just floating. I feel very much in the broom closet at Liberty and at my parents. Luckily I have my wife and her mom who are both Pagan. While the students are nice at Liberty University (contrary to outsider belief), they would definitely frown upon my beliefs and try to proselytize. I can't imagine being in constant fear of hell. But whatever makes you happy and positive.
In the Christian Bible it actually mentions multiple gods. So Christians who believe there is only one, are actually going against what their own book states. The Bible just specifies that Yahweh is the most high God, who judges the other gods, and you should be devoted to Him only. Also, the idea of faith in Christianity is solely based in a blood sacrifice: the blood sacrifice of Jesus to be exact. It’s not believing they are right or believing God exists. It is believing that this blood sacrifice was for you as an offering of atonement. For Christians, this sacrifice also means they no longer have to offer animal blood sacrifices. A lot of what is thought to be part of the Christian religion is actually part of Christian traditions, and is not mentioned in the Bible at all. These traditions were influenced by who was in power at the time they became popular, and other things. In summary, Christians who actually read the Bible from an analytical and historical perspective, not just a perspective given to them from a pulpit, will realize that it has more in common with its Pagan roots (Abram was a pagan worshipper of the moon before he became Abraham) than they were taught.
I come from Jehovah's Witnesses. I am so glad I got out and follow a witch style life. That Christian religion just filled me with so much fear, guilt, and shame. I love witchcraft and the spirits who have helped me
Being a Christian is a freedom our God just doesn’t want us to do bad so there are things that is called sin and if we are bad Christians would do bad things please respect
@@jerriecoline7571 I was talking about Christian religions that ARE a cult. The JW are a cult. They literally have all the red flags of being an abusive, manipulative, cult.
Donald Michael Kraig had a really good summary of Christianity that I heard in one of his lectures, the main idea is: “vicarious salvation“. Almost all the other religions say that you are responsible for your own spiritual path, but Christianity gives you an out just by faith in their dying and rising God (Which technically makes them a death cult, not that there’s anything necessarily wrong with that) If you look at the golden verses of the Pythagoreans, there is the idea of sending “to the free upper air“ but that is where you become “deathless, Divine , a mortal one no more“.
I don't know what I believe yet, but one thing that bothers me about Christianity is its focus on the afterlife. I rarely ever think about what, if anything, happens after death. I live in the here and now, not in some heaven that may or may not actually exist. A big struggle when I was trying to be a Christian was trying to make myself believe in heaven; it just doesn't make sense to me. If I do ever find a spirituality for me, I want it to be something that helps and guides me through THIS life, regardless of whether or not something comes after. When I see people wasting their lives waiting for heaven, I just feel sad for them. Like, why waste your one and only precious life on earth waiting for something that might not even be real?
It is impressive how profound your understanding and kowledge of the different pagan paths is. I personally follow the Cultus Deorum Romanorum, and whenever you touched the Roman Religion, you were spot-on.
I have only one question to Christianity. If we do some wrong (sin) to people then how can God save you. Every person has to face punishment according to his deeds or karma. Even God cannot save him. Is your God so corrupt that he forgives you?
God is so PURE and wise and good rather that He forgives you. That is where Jesus comes in. He took the corruptedness you speak of and took that upon Himself so that we might be forgiven. The difference here is accordance and Who truly writes the accord. I encourage you to read the gospel of John as a start.
Great video, very thought provoking. You touched on this several times but one key difference I think of between Pagans and Christians is the idea of original sin. In Christianity humanity cannot avoid sin and must be forgiven by Christ. In paganism I would say nothing is inherently sinful.
I think the main distinction would be in the sense and spirit of worship. Churches, religious icons, incense; worship is kind of a theater for most Christians. I'd say Paganism is more like a full-time gig.
Really? I’d say it was completely the other way round - Christians I’ve met who are REALLY Christian take worship and prayer very seriously. What i mean by ‘really Christian” that is a lot of people i know say they’re Christian because their parents were but don’t really believe in God, so they don’t really do much and think of it as ‘theatre’ because they don’t really believe it’s real. But devoted Christians go to Church every Sunday, they pray daily, etc, etc, it’s what is NEEDED in the religion. There are a lot of rules. Whereas Pagans, don’t. Some don’t even do ANYTHING, at all, they just believe. The whole point of Paganism is you can do anything you want - you can decide to do rituals everyday or you can just celebrate the sabbaths/holidays.
Great video Scarlet! I come from a Jewish background but I have studied all the major religions. I studying with shamans for many years and I basically have my own worldview which is probably a mixture of many beliefs. I do believe in karma and reincarnation and I’m making a documentary on reincarnation that should be finished this summer. I like how open minded you are and you are an excellent teacher.
Hi Scarlet, Magi Verdi here! :-) After watching this video, I realized not how much Pagan and Christian views are different from each other, but how paradoxical they are in their natures; they are different paths yet still point to the same direction: an understanding of Source. It's also fascinating how both belief systems seem to find a way to integrate some aspects of the other into their own, though it would seem that Christianity tends to adapt more Pagan beliefs than the other way around. Still, I personally appreciate the existence of the two, as both are just a few of the many faces of spirituality. Thanks for sharing and making this video. 😊❤
That’s because all religions influence one another. Because we are social animals when we meet we inevitably share ideas, whether or not it’s intentional, this includes religion. It’s why for example, the god pan changed over time from a terrifying monstrous god, to a silly one, then eventually became Dionysus. Or why you find gods like Hermeanubis.
Paganism promotes spiritual enlightenment. Not oppression! We see ourselves as part of nature, NOT it's overlord. We do not fear the afterlife, for there is NO hell... We honour & venerate our Deities so that they may empower us to forge our own path towards spiritual enlightenment, we don't have to beg for mercy and pray to be saved because we are inherently flawed... Instead we aspire to the best versions of ourselves. *** These are but a few differences I mentioned above, many of which the reason for my conversion. I grew up in a very pious Christian home. Fearing every day that I'll go to hell for being gay, and committing countless other atrocities deemed as sin. Fearing that I am being judged every second of every day for being an inherently flawed being. For the longest time being ignorant that there was more to the world than what lies within the pages of the bible. Breaking free from the bonds of being a servant, to being a beacon of power and independence. Blessed be to all who walk this path.
You have a very clear, non judgemental/non bias, comforting way of speaking and presenting your knowledge and views ^___^ myself a Christian who believes in only 1 God, I also believe that God made beings like faeries. I also believe that people were made the way they are supposed to be, such as views possibly against the Bible like LGBTQ2+ people, or people who believe in a different religion for example. I believe they are exactly how they are supposed to be and they are loved just the same and that’s how God made, anyone. The thing I try to live my life by is the commandments, to not lie, not cheat, and so on.... to be the best person I can be. Is it possible someone to believe in one God and believe he has created beings like faeries? Thank you for your time ❤️
I respect you and your choice for your worldview and religion. I'm curious what your thoughts are on this though--if you're willing to hear some pushback: Why did christian god create unrepentant sinners? With his perfect foresight he would have known they would be unrepentant sinners in life and yet he created them anyway with perfect foresight of their eternal torment in the afterlife. Also you say the unrepentant sinner is just being "exactly how they are supposed to be" but that dooms them to eternal torment in hell? They had no choice in their creation: christian god forced them into existence seemingly just so that they would fail and suffer for forever. Sounds to me like christian god isn't entirely benevolent
You did a great job with a difficult topic. One comment on Christianity. I would say Christianity has linear view which looks to a future ideal age to come (most popular is going to heaven after death but many scholars believe this was not the focus but instead the focus was an ideal age on earth). It seems Paganism is more cyclical embracing the present.
@@soulseeker1483 The Wheel of the Year teaches us that life is a cycle of light and dark, reaping and sowing, sex and death, effort and rest, growth and decay. The point is that even if 'the present sucks' as the other commenter has said, it's not permanent. It's just another point on the Wheel. We will pass out of it and grow stronger and wiser for it and when that point on the Wheel comes around again, with a different but similar situation, we'll know better how to handle it. To learn to appreciate and love every point on the Wheel, not just the ones that we may personally favor and find more joyous, is the challenge. Whoops! How did I end up on this soapbox? I'll get off now...
That's really interresting ! As a pagan who works for a christian bookshop (being christian was not a requirement to work there but they think I'm an angostic or atheist although I've never told them about my faith at all) I always have opportunities to hear what they have to say about the world, their faith or their vision of life. It's very different from paganism and what stikes me is the firm conviction that everyone who is not a christian is somewhat in need to be saved. They have this kind of "I really want to help other by opening their eyes" vibe. In addition, all the suffering they experience in life (death of someone, financial struggles etc.) is percieved to be a lesson from God to drive teach them something and testing their faith. In contrast, norse gods could be judged and even temporaly punished by humans if they happened to be too harsh on them and to not fullfill what the humans asked for despite having a lot of offerings. Devoted could even stop bringing any offering to the god to show his disappointment. It was one of the reasons it was difficult to make norsemen understand christianity, as they will stop to worship God and Jesus if their prayers happened to not be fullfilled. Realy a different vision here.
One difference is pagans attempt to engage with the spiritually realm and even demonic/unclean spirits with benevolence. Most Christian denominations don't belive we can take charge over spirits. One only needs to look at the failed exorcism that starts in Acts 19:13 to see how vulnerable humans are to demonic spirits. Truly terrifying.
I remember from one of Ocean's videos that historically, there were records of Christian witches, along with spells/rituals they used. Which was really fascinating. 😄
This is a wonderful video! Great facts. Thank you. Like many people, I started as Christian (Catholic), and am so happy to have found my true calling (Druidry).
Don't know if you knew already but Catholicism is extremely pagan. The pope has been seen having fertility statues and worshipping Mary is false idolatry (that's if you did worship her. I don't know if all Catholics do) because she is not a god, despite the "Queen of Heaven" name...which by the why, is the same name as other goddesses. endrtimes.blogspot.com/2009/08/semiramis-queen-of-heaven-mother-of-god.html?m=1
Don't know if you knew already but Catholicism is extremely pagan. The pope has been seen having fertility statues and worshipping Mary is false idolatry (that's if you did worship her. I don't know if all Catholics do) because she is not a god, despite the "Queen of Heaven" name...which by the why, is the same name as other goddesses. endrtimes.blogspot.com/2009/08/semiramis-queen-of-heaven-mother-of-god.html?m=1
A part 2 would be nice. It's a nice collection of thoughts and a good reflection. Definitely a good discussion to find a middle ground between religious groups.
If I’m correct. The idea of meek is wrong, as it was written in Greek the meaning of meek wasn’t of a soft gentle man, but of a man whom carries a sword and knows how to use it but has no need of it. In other words a warrior.
As someone who comes from a Catholic background, I dont think you were being too harsh on Christianity, especially with the dark history behind the bible as well as the equally dark history of the Christian church. Thank you for this video and sending love and many blessings from the Uk xx
Summary: 1. One allmighty, «perfect» and correct god vs More different, unique gods that you can chose your relationship with 2. Faith and salvation vs actions and moral 3. Humility and piety vs warrior and strenght (both pfysical and mental) 4. Afterlife and sacrifice vs this life and cycles (5. Sinful fertility vs proud fertility)
Good video 👏 Marcus Aurelius quote got a lot truths to it I like it No one really knows what is the afterlife so much science to it everyone’s got a soul where does that lead too no one really knows until you’re dead 💀 and dust to the earth there’s nothing wrong believing in many gods i’m happy with all of them In every religion> but One true God < really that really was forced on to many people that were pagans change to Christianity killing many in the process Also one thing for sure pagan community is on the rise over the world still going strong
I thought of myself as a pagan for many years. It didn't seem to be working out very well for me. I've found myself to be quite at home with the Lutheran Christianity that I was brought up with. No one forced me to. It just sort of clicked. It could be more of a community issue for me rather than one of theology. I'm probably a bit agnostic when it comes to the latter. No harm in keeping an open mind and checking it all out. It's all interesting.
I agree with you & that’s very interesting. I’m never going back to Christianity personally though as I was literally in the exact opposite situation of you. Growing up I was an outcast at church, as I’m an eccentric & they didn’t know how to take me. & found that I connected more with the beliefs of Pagans than Christians overall. I’m very happy that you found your place though.
Read my comments at the top of this video! I shared alot of things that might fall into interest for you! I had to split the text in half and I wrote it in a comment of mine. It’s about Valhall and the Afterlife, beliefs of Odinism / Paganism. I really hope you read it!
This is so sad. It hurts my heart to hear and see comments from people so misled into thinking such a destructive ideology can actually help answer life's purpose and questions :(
As one who was brought up Christian (LCMS), you are bang-on about Christianity. There are liberal and conservative variants; Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox; but the general message is faith over works and preparation for the hereafter. I went pagan after a long journey, informed by my study of ancient philosophy in college. One important (though boring) source for understanding the pagan worldview is Aristotle, particularly his Nicomachean Ethics, and the Physics.
Loved this video. I honestly don’t understand how someone could call themselves a Christian Pagan, because they’re both total opposites in my opinion from my experience, but you did an amazing job talking about the two(: I would love to see more!!
No, actually they're not different...one just spreads the agenda of one religion "being hateful" and the other "all about love". True Christianity isn't mixed with paganism like how modern Christianity is.
A Christian pagan would be someone who wants all the benefits of being a Christian but sees it being achievable through human means and philosophy. Probably similar to the Catholic way.....
i love this topic! i listened to a podcast on something similar and it really made me think: the guest was saying that the problem he has with pagan christians/christian pagans is that, one the ways christianity spread was destroying/villainizing pagan beliefs and culture and that the basis of christianity and the christian god demands that no other god be worshipped besides him. so, he was very anti bringing in christianity into your practice, because it was like... a very extreme conflict of interest. but! i do think its really interesting to see how and why people do it anyway!
i have heard some play around with the phrasing of "you shall worship no god BEFORE me" as a way to bring in lesser gods, but who knows! i just remember i was more than happy to cut all of that out once i left christianity, haha
In the "pagan" worldview, tolerance of other religions or people rarely if ever occured. If you're going to call yourself "pagan" honestly, you have to view history through a lense absolutely free of Christian shading. Pre-christian paganism, more specifically, all of the Indo-European religious variations stemming from the same Indo-European root, that we have any records of, were very intolerant of other worldviews, and only tolerated differences so long as they were not seen as a threat to the propagation of your own beliefs and tribe. Paganism, if the term is to remain accurate to the original idea (it was a word used by Christians to label other, more ancient beliefs) should reject Christian notions of violence. You should seek the betterment of your own people, regardless of the consequences to other peoples, within reason. Obviously, you don't want to be so ambitious that other groups see you as a threat. You want to be strong and unassailable, while also being diplomatic, especially in today's world of mass media and global communication. Thousands of years ago, an empire could form without distant tribes knowing or having the opportunity to build a federation to combat it's growth. Nowadays, you do anything today and everyone knows tomorrow, around the world. Hence the use of cameras and newspapers by ghandi and MLK to benefit their peoples by feeding on the compassion and also the tribal interests of the members of the dominant group, as well as the dominant group's own adversaries. Basically moral/political blackmail.
I respectfully disagree! The definition of Paganism is to simply believe in more then one god or goddess, you may be thinking of one of the wings underneath Paganism because there are certainly more strict parts of it but there are definitely parts of Paganism that don’t believe that at all! Please don’t spread misinformation or hate❤️❤️❤️
@@nixous287 simply, you're wrong. You're describing a category of religion called "polytheism". PAGANISM, as historically considered, as a range of prechristian religious beliefs of Eurasia, refers to the beliefs of the Indo-European traditional religions, which all generally branched out from a fundamental, root proto-indo-european religion which was spread across Eurasia through the militarism and economic and biological superiority of it's adherents. Learn your history before attempting to correct others and claiming to know definitions or facts. Nordic, Celtic, Germanic, Roman, Greek, Hindu, Slavic, Baltic, and many other religious traditions that existed before Christianity all stem from a family tree of related religions which spread across the continent over the course of tens of thousands of years.
@@nixous287 that’s not necessarily the case. There are polytheistic groups that don’t like being called pagan for cultural reasons & atheist pagans as well. Traditionally Wiccans dualistic, but they too are pagan. A pagan channel called Styx & Stonehenge made a video talking about its meaning
@@c4call yeah, but they were still different & influenced on another. & in fact, Christianity may very well have inspired Ragnarok. All religions are connected & it’s very strange because it’s also something people kill each over other. Also I’m not trying to be rude just want to make sure you know that many Hindus don’t like being called pagan same with Native Americans.
OK, not the most accurate balanced analysis but what really matters is to talk about these things. The conversation is the road to understand and learn. I commend Scarlet for making the video. Thank you.
Native American and hindu philosophies work well. I believe the perception of a creator is very important as well as mother earth discipline. As long as it's very environmental based and nature/humanitarian spiritual, you're on the right journey, that's my perspective
Hey hun, I grew up as a Christian as well and also would’ve been ‘killed’ if I researched outside stuff. Keep that curious part of you. Even if you remain a Christian as an adult, it’s ok to research others view points and cultures and religions. Learning isn’t wrong💚💚
De MacPherson I'm not saying not listening to you're parents are a good thing but what religion or beliefs you want to follow is not you're mothers choice
Read my comments at the top of this video! I shared alot of things that might fall into interest for you! I had to split the text in half and I wrote it in a comment of mine. It’s about Valhall and the Afterlife, beliefs of Odinism / Paganism. I really hope you read it! Don’t care about your parents my friend. They will have to respect you for who you are. They don’t live your life, you do.
There's no science to it. Modern Christianity is riddled with paganism. Everything that Jesus taught was thrown out the door after his death because of the Romans and their pagan practices.
I loved this video! It was extremely informative but in a fun way! I have always found that the Christian faith has this very strict and serious tone about it. At least it did where I grew up. However, Paganism has always had this light and happy tone to it. ESPECIALLY the holidays. Pagans know how to party for sure.
You can try to include the christian god in your patheon, but I doubt very strongly that this will go well. The christian god first doctrin is to not worship other gods. Its the first of the ten commandments. practising withcraft ist to be punished with death. Paganism and christianity are the absolute opposite in many ways
@@N0skGaming That one cant combine paganism/ witchcraft with christianity. Not If one want to take yahweh or christianity serious. Yahweh is to jealous and absolute. If you want to include some thoughts or Traditions, maybe. Christianity absorbed a Lot of pagan Traditions as Well, and there are a Lot of Mixed ways. But the real Deal? No
Thank you. This very enjoyable. I've lived in a very conservative town before and it was mostly if you don't go to a "church" , you were going to he**. No if's, and's or buts about it. I have since moved on from that town. Again thank you so much for making these types of content. It was very enjoyable.
I'm sorry you dealt with that, because going to church is not necessary since the true church is a group of like minded people who meet up anywhere to pray and study the bible together. It's never been about the building.
The thing about Valhalla, to my knowledge is such: You had to believe in the old gods, die with a weapon in your hand in battle, and you had to have committed a superhuman feat in battle, say, like a Beowulf type would. For example, take 20 guys on in battle, kill all of them, and then die fighting somehow in that same battle. Plus, Valhalla was a place of hedonism, of excess. That means once admitted to Valhalla you eat excessively, drink excessively, have sex excessively, and fight and die every “ day” there. Not everyone would want Valhalla I would think. Not me especially. Most people go to Hel or some other of the Norse afterlives.
And my knowledge is that not EVERY warrior went to Valhall. You could die in battle bravely, but that doesn't mean you'll get chosen. And frankly, the chosen feasting in Valhalla, fighting each other every day for grins, is basically Odin warming everyone up because those warriors will be fighting in Ragnarok. A fight Odin loses, as I recall. So it's not all fun and games for those in Valhalla.
Druid Riley yes. That is why, like I said you had to be exceptional. Not just “ brave” in the sense that you went out and fought, but also that you did an almost superhuman feat while fighting. Like I said, a Beowulf or Sigurd type. That is why not everyone and I think, but don’t quote me, “most” of the slain weren’t chosen. Plus, I believe from what I have learned from different astute and knowledgeable youtubers, is that Ragnarok has a ton of Christian influence because the only things we have it written down is by Snorri Sturrlusson ( probs butchered that spelling, sorry). And so far as many scholars know, he was heavily influenced by Christianity in Iceland because that country was already Christian for a few hundred years after the whole “ Viking” time. Just reading about Ragnarok and hearing about it makes you think, yeah, that sounds like Armageddon or something.
Everything here is not true. And you can reach Valhall without killing somebody / go out fighting for your life. Read my comments at the top of this video! I shared alot of things that might fall into interest for you! I had to split the text in half and I wrote it in a comment of mine. It’s about Valhall and the Afterlife, beliefs of Odinism / Paganism. I really hope you read it!
Only have recently begun to step back into this path, three things I have noticed. One is that it is more comforting with oneself than the strange push to transcend your body, as if the body is the problem. Related to that is often a notion I have seen among some Christians to deem the world as a problem, and it must be overcome. These two together cause many people it seems to be divorced from what can be a good life. To the ideal of the warrior, Christians do seem to have an ideal of a warrior/soldier, but it seems to be a very arrogant and persecutory figure, as opposed to the meek ideal that's preached. Thank you the time.
really? represent paganism with pentagram? pentagram is a symbol that has no connection with paganism, it is a modern symbol invented by "little witches". It would be like representing paganism with a cross of David.
Actually the Pentagram goes all the way back to Ancient Greece. It's practically a multipurpose symbol that can be used for whatever you please. Even in Early Christianity, they use the Pentagram to describe Jesus Christ & his 5 wounds.
Except that's what the bible says will happen. And then not all Christians either. This is why most progressive, liberal Christians finally switched to paganism. They realized that they were changing Christianity so much to fit their world view, they really couldn't say they were following Christianity anymore.
@@druidriley3163 In many Catholic churches, sources are read to the people, so I cannot quote the exact verse. However, it is derived from the understanding that God is all powerful and can basically do whatever He wants, so even those who "follow the rules" aren't guaranteed to go to Heaven, but are more likely, and those who do not; additionally, those who never attend church may be saved in the catechism if He chooses so. It's one of the big differences in ideologies between different Christian groups, especially fundamentalist Protestant Christians and mystical Catholics. That's why I believe her video was oversimplifying groups that have too many differences, and she ignores many nuances. That's also why I think your logic is flawed as it seems that your interpretation is based on a specific translation of the Bible as well as a specific interpretation that is not universally held by all Christians.
@@druidriley3163 and to add further Nuance to my response, even the same mystical Catholics who believe that God can save anyone for any reason, also believe that you cannot be saved through faith alone and have to have action or "works" to get into Heaven. Not to mention there's no consensus as far as what heaven actually is, so your idea that liberal Christian's convert to paganism because they're altering the beliefs of Christianity, is largely rooted in the idea that Christianity has a universal set of ideas, which it does not. Christianity is as diverse as paganism.
I went from Paganism to Christianity and would like to add that there are many similarities between the two paths! There are several pagan practices that I kept when becoming Christian. Love this video!
Actually that's how the whole Christianity is. Most of the Christian things are copied from paganism. Specially their festivals. So yeah ur just another Christian admitted stealing other religious cultures. Hope u get paid well from the church
Don't tell her what she is. She is whatever she wants to be. If she wants to be christian, so be it. Just because she is in another religion doesn't mean you have to crap on it. Stop trying to act like she just did something bad. She isn't harming anybody.
The bible is a great story book with great guidelines to live your life by for those who choose to follow that story. Growing up in a Methodist environment I was taught about this book. I never really quite fit in. It wasn't my cup of tea. I would ask questions and would be told that I shouldn't have the questions I had and that I should pray to God for the answers. I found the answers from within. I found immense strength within myself. I then started to educate myself in all things I was questioning. I found that paganism was something I related to the most. After 35 years of questioning I finally found what works for me and speaks to me. I am a Pagan witch. However someone chooses to live their life and follow what speaks to them is up to that person. There is no judgement from me. I am just very secure with myself and I only need to be accountable to myself at the end of the day. The beautiful thing about Paganism is the more the merrier, there is strength in numbers. No matter where your path leads you, your moral compass is the correct path. Trust it. Let it guide you. Blessed be.
So as a Christian I came here out of curiosity, not necessarily to fight anyone but just to understand pagan beliefs better. I was wondering if theres any specific beliefs pagans have about morality? Does paganism say anything about right and wrong?
I don't know if you would count them as paganism, but I think I can call myself a "Shinto Buddhist" (Soto Zen Buddhism to be more precise). I'll start with the Shinto one because it's a tad bit complicated. Basically it's a set of beliefs not built around a scripture, nor around a leader, but rather glimpses and remains of the poetries and overall beliefs that were in Japan before Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism came there (even tho Shinto now is heavily influenced by them). So there is a concept of wrong called "tsumi", that I'm gonna translate as sins for the sake of the argument, "Heavenly sins" are wrong actions you commited that are not just wrong to your surroundings, but to a more cosmic sense, like blasphemy or murder or doing something against the laws of nature to the point it creates suffering to you and others. Earthly sin would be something like being rude, coming late to work, things that are disagreable, but not ultimately horrific, they still are wrong actions that makes life more complicated to everybody. The goal of Shinto would be to do what you can to remain as pure as you were at the start, and that include things like misogi (basically bathing, not just physically, you need to "wash" yourself mentally) and stay connected to the overall "greater nature" in the process. Not doing so means you now are corrupted and, while it's not eternal damnation, it's up to you to clean up for your mistake in that life or the other. Now with Zen you have a moment when Dogen was talking about good and evil. One of his teachings was "do not commit wrong actions, and accomplish many right actions". Dogen didn't believe in Good and Evil in a western sense, but the idea is that here and now is good, Evil comes from the past or the future. You do unreasonable things because of a grudge you can't simply let go, or because you really need to get to that moment later when you get your dopamine hit. For example, Zen uses the practice of Zazen (sitting down, and just experiecing reality, or as Brad Warner would say it, "Sit down and Shut up"), but Dogen says that people doing Zazen "to get illuminated" are therefore wrong people because they are expecting something in return, they are doing X so they get Y later, and it is wrong from the Zen perspective. (And I think it's not far from Isaiah saying something similar about good actions being dirty rags if done "just so you can get to Heaven") Those two beliefs agree on two things. 1. No action is naturally good or evil, it is the overall context that will determine it. 2. Wrong is something that goes against the natural order of things ("Daigenrei" in Shinto, "Dharma" in Zen) and therefore brings suffering (or "un-necessary suffering" for Zen) to you and others, and you did it, you owe that mess, and you have to do the work to learn and/or make up for it. I did my best to overly simplified them, because as time goes on, I realise its more complex than I first imagined it to be.
I'm Wiccan which is a much more modern pagan religion but that has the "Wiccan Rede" which says "as long as you harm none, do what you will" and "what you send forth shall come back by three" which means there's 3-fold karma for what you do whether its positive or negative.
Pagan religions have a lot to say about virtues and morality. Many of the virtues Christianity now puts forward as its own were in fact Pagan first. Prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance, the so-called "cardinal virtues" in the Christian tradition were held by the ancient Greeks and others. Faith, hope and charity are the only uniquely Christian ones in that overall theory of ethics. Other ethical systems followed by many modern Pagans are patterned after those of pre-Christian societies such as the Vikings. The "Nine Virtues of Troth" held by many modern followers of Asatru (ie modern Viking religion) include: Truth, courage, honor, fidelity, discipline, hospitality, industriousness, self-reliance, and perseverance. If you delve into the Havamal a collection of Viking age poems, you will find very lengthy treatment of ethics and morals in the form of advice for living, wisdom and right action. Additionally, if you look at the myths surrounding the ancient Pagan gods in many cultures, you see many lessons about morality and ethics played out. Pagan and Christian morality have some deep differences concerning the concepts of sin and salvation and sexual morality, but an awful lot of what you find in all of the world's religions is very basic Golden Rule type stuff most people's moms tried to impart on them before they went off to their first day of school.
I hope you enjoyed this video! In your opinion what are some of the main differences between the Pagan & Christian worldview? I'm looking forward to reading all your thoughts.
For me the main difference between the church I was raised in and paganism is the freedom to choose according to my conscience. The Christian sect I belonged to used constant guilt and manipulation. It wasn't just major "sins" but every little quirk or interest that didn't exactly follow the outlined "proper" personality. They would say something was a matter for your own conscience, but if you chose wrong, they'd avoid you socially as "bad association." That's a lot of pressure.
Dyaus Pitar (Vedic), Zeus Pater (Greek), Jupiter (Roman), Dei Patrous (Illyrian), Dievs (Baltic).
Uṣas (Vedic), Eos (Greek), Aurora (Roman), Aushrine (Baltic).
Varuṇa (Vedic), Odinn/Wodan (Germanic), Ouranous (Greek), Velinas (Baltic).
Asura (Vedic), Aesir (Germanic), Ahura (Avestan).
Marut (Vedic), Ares (Greek), Mars (Roman).
Parjanya (Vedic), Perkunas (Baltic), Perunu (Slavic), Fjorgyn (Germanic).
Traitana (Vedic), Thraetaona (Avestan), Triton (Greek).
Aryaman (Vedic), Airyaman (Avestan), Ariomanus/Eremon (Celtic).
Saramā/Sārameya (Vedic), Hermes (Greek).
Pūṣan, Paṇi (Vedic), Pan (Greek), Vanir (Germanic).
Rudra (Vedic), Ruglu (Slavic).
Danu (Vedic), Danu (Irish).
Indra (Vedic), Indra (Avestan), Inara (Hittite).
Śarvara (Vedic), Kerberos (Greek).
Śrī (Vedic), Ceres (Greek), Freyr/Freya (Germanic).
Bhaga (Vedic), Baga (Avestan), Bog (Slavic).
Apām Napāt (Vedic), Apām Napāt (Avestan), Neptunus (Roman), Nechtain (Celtic).
Ṛbhu (Vedic), Elbe (Germanic).
Yama (Vedic), Yima (Avestan), Ymir (Germanic).
@edwardtone there is a difference between Pagan & Christian: you can either learn all that, about the points and angels, or you can mindlessly accept jesus, say "praise jesus" and put a buck in the basket.
@@susysnakegirl there is a difference between Pagan & Christian: you can either learn all that, about the big wide open world of freedom to choose, or you can mindlessly accept jesus, say "praise jesus" and put a buck in the basket...comfortably conformed to the external pressure applied. Truly much easier than burdening yourself with the complexity of freedom to choose.
@@mkelkar1 there is a difference between Pagan & Christian: you can either learn all that, about the many names and attributes of a timeless all powerful people can only hope to try to describe, but never know complete, the AllMightyB33All , or you can mindlessly accept jesus, say "praise jesus" and put a buck in the basket, and really not need to know much of anything, as the fellow peers will quickly point out if you say or do wrong
Aren't most of the 'Christian' Holidays essentially renamed Pagan traditions?.
Yep.
If you include Second-Temple Judaism under the "Pagan" umbrella - not everyone would - the Christian Pascha is derived from the Jewish festival Pesach, and the Christian Pentecost is derived from the Jewish festival Shauvot.
The Proto-orthodox Christian Epiphany emerged from the syncretic Helleno-Kemetic dedication festival of the god Aion's temple in Alexandria.
Christmas was, however, not derived from the Roman festival of Sol Invictus, because the chronology doesn't end up: A few Christian thinkers began to second-guess about when Jesus actually was born, and wrote those speculations down already in the 220's, i.e. half a century BEFORE Emperor Aurelian invented the festival of Sol Invictus. On the other hand, Christmas probably achieved popularity during the 4th and 5th centuries, because Pagan folk customs formerly associated with Brumalia, Saturnalia and New Year's Eve came to be associated with Christian Christmas.
In the Germanic-speaking world, a few words formerly used to designate pre-Christian festivals (or entire seasons of the year) clung to the recently imported (already existing abroad) Christian festivals: "Yule", "Easter" and "Lent" are examples of that in English, "Oster" in German" and "Jul" in Scandinavian languages.
The widely spread idea that Samhain was invented to assist conversion in 5th century Ireland and caused the invention of Halloween is an urban legend, because things happened at the wrong places at the wrong times for that idea to work. Both in Rome and in Ireland group-memorials of "all martyrs" or "all saints" emerged in the early 7th century, but held in April (Ireland) or May (Rome). The church in Rome later switched date to 1st of November, and it spread to the Carolingian Empire in 835, from there at unknown pace to the Anglo-Saxon and Irish kingdoms. "All Souls' day" wasn't added until 998, but that happened in a monastery in Cluny, France, not in Ireland either. That said, the folk customs reported to be associated to Halloween in Ireland at later dates, MIGHT (or might not) be derived from pre-Christian customs formerly associated with Samhain. It's just not the one-to-one equivalence some writers wish it to be. And remember, something may be useful without being old.
And then there's the very suspicious feast day of St. Hermes ...
Yes
Pagan just means Not Christian
@@je-freenorman7787 that wasn't the question
The Nordic peoples of the pre Christian period tended to believe that the god(s) that you worship is/was tied in many ways to where you were geographically. For me the biggest difference between Christianity and the old ways, is the way that Christianity uses the threat of damnation to get compliance with no room for doubt. By contrast, Odinn offers an example of leadership, follow or not it is up to the individual.
Exactly! You hit the nail right on the head!
Yup. Thats always been my problem with Christianity. Obedience through fear. No matter how good you are you go to hell without obedience and "true faith"
@A F that's all Christianity is. Not to mention the biggest hypocrites around
@A F negative. The bible one moment preaches love and acceptance but then turns around and preaches eternal damnation for the dumbest reasons.
@A F actually it does. Anyone who's read it and studied it knows it. Follow the rules or go to hell, worship me or go to hell, oh you lead a good life? Oops didn't spread my word so off to hell. There's a reason many turned away from Christianity. It's a religion to keep you in line by threat of eternal damnation and requires you to kneel before an egocentric god
Faith without works is dead, works without faith is dead.
It's so beautiful. I am a hindu and we believe that religion is a personal journey to the God, no path is wrong. Much love to you and there are so many positive comments here it makes it so wholesome..... much love to you. ❤️
I like Hindu i have Hindu status in my house of ganesha. He a lovely symple in my house. I dont like how Christians says its bad etc. I'm a pagan and I like Buddhist and Hindu ways of life. Nothing wrong with it. I had to push christians out my life cause i actualy had enough of their narrow minded ways. How can that be bad ? Too narrow for me.
@@seonaghjedlicka3570 in Matthew 7 Jesus says - “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it”. 🤍
@@jordanlovesthebieb Yay, Christianity is so Pagan! 🏛️
@@seonaghjedlicka3570 Just curious, but are you by any chance Russian or Ukrainian?
*Rig Veda 10.23.4* "With him is this rains: Indra throws drops of moisture on his yellow beard"
*Rig Veda 1.100.18* “Indra attacked the Dasyus and Śimyus; won the land with his white-skinned friends”
*Rig Veda 1.130.8* “Indra defends his Ārya worshiper. He consumes the malignant; he tore off the b_______ skin; and him who delights in cruelty.”
*Rig Veda. 2.20.6* "Indra, slayer of Vritra, scattered the Dasyus sprang from a b______ womb."
*Rig Veda 3.34.9* "Indra gained possession of the Sun, Horses, Cow. He struck the Dasyus, and gave protection to the Ārya tribe."
*Rig Veda 9.73.5* “They roared in unison, burning up riteless men, Blowing away the b______ skin which Indra hates.”
Two of my favorite old faith songs one about a man killing god, his angels, demons and taking over and the other is about sacrificing criminals ruclips.net/video/Ge-b670H_rA/видео.html and the other is ruclips.net/video/sXuL7XZOt-k/видео.html
I enjoy your way of explaining things. I was in Christianity for over thirty years. I feel so much happier and freer now. I can be myself and I'm not conscious of sin all the time. I can love myself and don't live in fear with so many unliveable rules. My mental health is much better. I'm so happy in my Pagan path. I'd love to hear a part 2 of this.
@Mike Knight What their mental health? It is observable that Abrahamic faiths do seem to have a major problem with mental health issues.
@Mike Knight Weren't you reading? Christianity was the issue.
I see, you dont want the guilt of sin to convict you...
@Kat Kaye sin doesn't come from humans, no man made sins up
So sad sis. I believe you will be back in Christianity one day. No one can save you beside Jesus Christ.
As an Christian man, I appreciate you trying to be as objective as possible by using bible verses. I also appreciate you explaining things in a way of how each religion is different and not trying to make it seem like one is better than the other.
Then she's lying or being politically correct . . . *Matthew 7:15-16* “Beware of false prophets, who come in sheep's clothing but are ravenous wolves."
*Matthew 24:11* And many false prophets will appear and deceive many people."
*2-John 1:7* "Deceivers who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh is the _Antichrist."_
*1-John 2:22* “Whoever denies that Jesus is the Christ, such a person is the _Antichrist_
*Revelation: **20:11* "And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever."
@@user-k4d-e59mo28oc The problem with Christians is they consult their bible, instead of thinking for themselves. Christianity seeks to destroy our Aryan ancestry and connection to our ethnic spiritual roots, and to tie us down as slaves to a jealous vengeful God; it is literally soul possession by another entity.
@@user-k4d-e59mo28oc Tell that to Joel Olstien and those like him...She isn't a preacher or minister or pope or anything like that so your judgement of her is not only wrong but also not yours to have, that is God's job isn't it? Or was I deceived when being told this was in the Bible and the word of God? Baptist is the most judgemental bunch of nobody's who think they are somebody important and they aren't!! Bunch of 2-Faced Hypocrites!! 😒🤬
@@user-k4d-e59mo28oc Or just valuing the positives in things instead of being terrified of the negatives.
As someone who grew up as Orthodox Christian and who had religion class in highschool, all what you said about their views are actually true. It's been 4 years by now since I left the religion and I still am cleaning myself from all fears and shames that oppressive Christian teachings put onto me. And still learning to love myself as I am.
Thats because you followed the priests and not the scripture.
@@ExploreTanakh24 I also read the scripture. Back then I found out that teacher who lectured me religion in highschool (when I was 15-16) didn't have her own opinions, but was basically repeating the scripture, so yeah. It was so full of contradictions and morally dubious parts that I put it down and didn't return to it again.
@@RebelWvlf - why didn't you look at some study tools and find a pastor? those romanised traditions are against the bible. I don't agree with the traditions of men like priests follow as I find them very ignorant. I dialogued a head Anglican leader and he had no knowledge. Very few are bible believers. There are some good pastors out there that are not into the TV Preacher cults. Have you met any good ones? Many churches go against Mark 7, Col 2:8, 2 Peter 2 etc..
RebelWulf glad to know it will take me some time. About the same for me, coming from Christianity.
It can take quite a while to realize how our religious upbringing affects us. Just take your time.
This is why I love being Pagan it has more freedom, no Judgement you can be who YOU want to be. My advice to new Pagans is that I know it's scary leaving and you don't know where to start and that is fine a lot of us have been where you are and we are here ready to answer questions and give advice.
My question is how do you let go of your fear of hell? Some pagans are still worried about it.
@@jaxthewolf4572 I read these books when I was still a Christian and they really helped: Razing Hell by Sharon Baker and Love Wins by Rob Bell. The whole concept of hell doesn't make sense to me anymore. How could a God who is supposed to be all-loving send people to hell forever? Why did he create them then?
@@jaxthewolf4572 It's actually quite easy. Once you start treating their threats of hell and sinning as abusive relationship ("you are horrible person and you need me to be better", "you are nothing without me", "if you do this one more time...."), it is becoming quite easy to get rid of it.
@@leenbee17 Thank you for the suggestions and you are right. Why would a loving God allow eternal suffering. And if God is all knowing, than he knows where everyone will end up after death before they were born. A loving and all knowing God would create everyone knowing their souls are safe.
@@RebelWvlf Thank you for your words and it does make sense. "If you leave me, there will be consequences." The God of the OT does sound like an abusive lover.
I appreciate this video. I grew up in a very Christian home. Was raised to fear and love God. My husband was raised in a more new age Christian house hold. It took years for me to not be scared that God was going to punish me for adopting his methods of practice. I have been fascinated in learning more on paganism and tarot and other mystical things. I think what attracts me to them is their long life in history. Paganism, tarot and other forms of divination and astrology were here way before Christ as well. I want to learn everything I can about multiple faiths and religions. The original message and texts of God have been distorted and altered from the hands of man through time. Men that wanted to control people changed their interpretation of the Bible and even removed books from the Bible. I’m still sitting on the fence about denouncing my Christianity. I’m learning everyday and the tight hold of my parents version of the religion is still loosening. I think I will always be torn with my spiritual believes. I guess my path will be long and windy one lol. I do look forward to a part two of this video! 💜
Please don’t denounce your faith. Just keep holding on. Give it time. Live more of your life before you do
I feel this!😭❤️
bruh
For me, the Source, God and the Earth Mother are all the same energy. Just some of the 10,000 names that Isis has. People are arguing over different labels of the same thing.
Yes!!!!
Yep.
Behind every great source of god, is a female deity Earth Mother SOURCE ... all the story helps understanding and the deity helps define purpose of self and others in this world ... but ultimately, if you learn enough and practice the knowledge to experience the real ... everybody finds it all becomes increasingly more similar, same ... All One ... AlONE
The parable of the blind men and the elephant. Alan Watts tells that one nicely. 😊
God is not a Deity. Its just Nature, the Laws of the Physical and the Meta.
This is really cool because i used to be Christian but slowly drifted away from it and followed the pagan path
Same same,I just don't like the Christian way of life.
Same
Me as well. Actually read the Bible and found stuff I didn’t like. Paganism is so much different and more accepting
It’s like finding a needle in a haystack, but not all Christians are closed minded. I just don’t care for the ones who claim “our way or the highway (a fiery hell). As a Christian who was raised in the Church, I’m holding myself accountable and trying to do better in respecting other paths. One part I find myself disagreeing with is the misogyny. There are several verses in the Bible that order women to be seen and not heard. I like that paganism has women equal to men and not below them. I am ashamed of all the injustice Christianity has caused and I’m sorry. The Church needs to do better. Way better.
Same
"Christianity: creating a world where people can look forward to being dead"
Actually that's not the case. People only truly die when they sin. If people live right by God, they will have everlasting life.
@@RoseStream83 look, if we die, we die. The bible even says that death is inevitable, except to those in the last generation (right before Jesus's Second Coming), but when we die we "sleep"..neither going to heaven or hell, but awaiting Jesus's judgment. The only difference is that the righteous will live on earth forever with Jesus when he returns, whereas the sinners will be thrown into the lake of fire to die.
www.bibleinfo.com/en/questions/what-does-bible-say-about-death
You misunderstood it... Christians belief that to live is Christ and to die is gain... It means we live for Christ and when we die its a gain for us because we will be reunited to the author and perfecter of our faith.
The greatest difference is that monotheism took on the structure of orthodoxy within its early development, that is just so normalized people don't even see it's there, and paganism does not have such orthodoxy.
So does Åsatru, Odinism. @Waffogram
I deconverted from Christianity last year in November, and I used witchcraft and pagan practices as a way to help facilitate my process because it is so difficult to leave a very structured religion without any transitional spiritual practices. Which is how I found my way out and way to cope. I love witchcraft and paganism because of the lack of fundamentalism and strict norms. Thank you for making this video and I hope christians can see this and learn more about how beautiful spirituality can be outside of abrahamic religions
I think we can find structure and strict norms outside of abrahamic religions as well. Most us can agree that some actions are very very bad and deserve to be handled strictly. Fortunately many Pagan gods were known for rapid justice and values of honor and purity. I think if Christians see more of that, they can identify with those desires and appreciate this perspective more
@Mike Knight Pagans threw sinners into the bogs. The people here aren't even genuinely pagan, they just want to live without consequences, or at least define those consequences themselves as if they are the gods. Really it's already taken hold in the worst ways and we're still here. Not good
@Mike Knight you are one of the reasons why people leave Christianity.
@CallMeOgmios Christ is not all "peace and love". Read Mathew 10:34-36
I honestly think that Abrahamic religions need a serious makeover. Not unlike how Paganism has. It’s become far more flexible & tolerant than it was originally. That being said however, I think the Abrahamic religions are slowly becoming that, it’ll just take time
Self-Empowerment vs. the Higher Power - this is the aspect that drew me away from Christianity toward Paganism in my early teens, and has cemented it as an adult. Christianity from my experience has a lot of "Let Go, Let God" and "He Works in Mysterious Ways", all implying that God has a higher plan for you, and you have no control over it. Especially during difficult times, the idea of just having faith in His Plan® and it will all work out/be ok, not only sounded like a copout, but made me feel weak and powerless. The pagan ideals that we all have control over our actions and the repercussions that come from them, that we can work WITH the world around us for cleansing or strength - those resonated more with me.
Namaste to all my Pagen Brothers and Sisters. In Hinduism the most important thing is indeed your Actions. Faith does not matter but what matters are you Actions. The word that we use for Actions is Karma. Its your Krama that would decide your fate in this life in your future births. After following this channel I see a lot of similarities between Hinduism and other Pagan philosophies.
Can someone practice Hinduism and not believe in reincarnation?
I would also enjoy seeing a video on the common ground of spirituality between pagan, new age, and main-stream religion. Off the top of my head, they all transcend the material realm, provide identity, have solitary practices, options of community, ritual, and so on. Someone said that witchcraft is prayer with tools, which is an interesting comparison!
That's a great idea for a future video. :)
In my opinion, you’re more likely not to be “saved” if you’re Christian. There are so many guidelines you must follow, including the rejection of basic human instincts and that always rubbed me the wrong way. It’s what made me leave. I technically would have already sinned and not made it. Why should I have to please one being that won’t let me in to eternal peace for a stupid reason and send me to burn for eternity? Like the book says, it’s harder to get in to Heaven then it is to get a camel through the eye of a needle.
Also, in my experience, those following and/or raised knowing Christianity tend to be more close minded while claiming to be open, accepting, and loving. And that is my biggest pet peeve.
Mike Knight I never understood how “Jesus became our sin and took it away” when all most Christians I know talk about how everybody still sins and is full of sin. I’ve gotten yelled at and told I’m going to Hell for being bisexual. The Bible doesn’t even say anything against homosexuality. The translators replaced a word that meant pedophile for homosexual. There are some really awful people that “are going to Heaven” because they attend church a couple times a week. There are just so many things you can do “wrong” and so much “sin” in the world that still still exists, so I really don’t believe he saved all of us these days. To me, there are so many holes in the Bible, so many things that either contradict each other, don’t make sense, or shouldn’t apply today. It’s definitely not my ideal religion, especially not anymore. I grew up Christian but it never felt right for me. I like paganism, how I don’t have to “worship” one God that claims to be all powerful but really just seems to like playing around with people so they “praise his name”. Jesus is a pretty cool guy though. I’ll probably work with him in the future, but I like having all of those other deities as well
Just a small little nitpick: It's harder for *a rich man* to get into heaven than it is for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle. This was in response to Jesus telling a rich man to sell all he has and distribute it among the poor and then follow him. But yeah, the modern culture of Christianity is very closed-minded and often welded together with white supremacy, patriarchy, capitalism, heteronormativity, and ableism.
I've always thought of Christianity as a good "starter religion" ... you can easily out grow it and go on to learn better, yet some of the principles remain true ...on the other hand, if you listened to some ridiculous, hypnotic mind control preacher making use of Christian terminology, then I'm sorry for you, as that isn't Christianity, but Insanity. It is sad that more Christians are not willing to step up to clean up the credibility of their own religion, as the Insanity is Incredible
Following Dogma is any religion is not a good thing. Jesus was just a regular man. Believing anything else is just erroneous beliefs. He was not Born with no mortal father and was not resurrected. There is just so much wrong with following dogmatic religious beliefs ./ Its basically Dark Occultism. It lifts a humans natural ability to sense who they are and where they come from. Religion is pretty much all Dark. So, we all get stuck being controlled by a Religious Cult, we call Government. Its all Mind Control
If you break down the Etymology of Government, - Govern is a Man made Authority. to control or Steer. Ment is the Form of Action or the mind,. So Government really means Mind Control too. The Church is also Man made authority. True faith can only be shown in a secular environment. There is only 1 Truth and it does not depend on anyone;s Point of View. God is not, nor will ever be a Deity. Its Nature. The Laws of the Physical AND the Meta.
I'm a solitary witch with an atheist husband who comes from a traditional southern Baptist family. The thing that stands out most to me is their predilection to judge others for their religious views. In my practice, I fully believe that if it harms no one, then believe/practice that which brings joy. From my in-laws, it is not that way. They see sinfulness in all things and are compelled to not only point it out in others, but to pass judgement on them for it. There is great difficulty with our relationship because of this. Live and let live does not resonate well.
You said it: " I fully believe that if it harms no one, then believe/practice that " ... their actions hurt people like you, and they know their actions hurt ... and sadly they may see the hurt they cause as sucsess of their actions, meaning they want to hurt you until you change ... because they are fully acting in accordance with the opposite of your belief " that if it harms no one, then believe/practice that "
@Doc Savage YES! That is the point really ... All people All One Equality ... universal love is something universally a part of all ... ALL ONE ... Alone people find the whole world they know, All the world that is know to you alone ... so yes, uh, the stuff some peole judge or fear is actually just some other part or reflection of themselves ... while becoming whole is inclusive, accepting all ... YES! That is the real Truth, what you said
Be careful with the “do what you want” philosophy. It was coined by Alastair Crowley who was a satanist.
Also I can understand why people think Christians are judgmental and it’s sad for me to hear people use doctrines in this way. I am a Christian who genuinely tries to follow Christ’s example.
@@jillianh7565 "do what you want" is actually like marry whom you love and want to marry, compared with marry who you are told to marry ... it isn't any type of permission to do heinous behavior .... and my point about hypocrisy is that too many followers don't step up to condemn bad practices ... judgemental discernment is a life skill, and discernment of bad behavior that discredits your own religion or deity, should be identified; "called out" Far too long, it has been, that some religion is used as a cover for racist/oppressive activity. People within a religion should be more vocal to oppose bad tradition and expell oppressive behaviors, rather than turn a blind eye and simply declare oneself a "good follower" of the same religion, while not going f7ar enough to declare the oppressive or hypocritical behavior as clearly NOT part of their religion. Be careful with blanket religious acceptance as that might be used as a tool of corruption
switchjim I strive to follow Jesus Christ’s example, not a denomination. It’s funny how people think their religion is correct when Jesus taught us that God hates religion. He would rather have a personal relationship with us than a relationship predicated on vain repetition. Jesus said “21 “Not everyone who says to Me, (B)‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who (C)does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we (D)not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And (E)then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; (F)depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’” Matthew 7:21-23
Proud to be a Pagan 🤗🖤
I came from Theravada Buddhism family . But I discovered about new religions . Studied by my own . And became a Pagan .
@Jamie Miller Sorry I am not a sheep
@Jamie Miller I can't spend my time reading your bullshits either .
Read my comments at the top of this video! I shared alot of things that might fall into interest for you! I had to split the text in half and I wrote it in a comment of mine. It’s about Valhall and the Afterlife, beliefs of Odinism / Paganism. I really hope you read it!
i've been christin since birth
As of the start of 2020, i've been feeling scared of jesus. I was disgusted with the fact that i would not go to heaven for being me so i started to yeet him out of my life.
I now feel so much better and happier with being a pagen
Just out of curiosity, but did you ever talk to God?
Then you are truly a foolish man.
Turn back now and begin to truly find love brother
@@Fallen-Saint I need to clap for this comment. I have a strong belief that this man tried to say that he is attracted to boys, which makes your religion judgy due to being sent to hell. Let the man believe what he wants. Don’t let your ego go out there and call another man foolish just because he no longer share your beliefs. This is why christianity makes me sick. When a christian push their faith on you almost as they are god himself and not respecting you as a person, they have been going against their own faith by their actions. You just did. Stop judging
@@N0skGaming i love him so I told me not to, like when a father tells there child no to do something that could end up bad.
But you on the other hand is saying to do, do something that could be bad. This isn't just imaginary stuff to him nor to me, what ever spirits he talks to could well be lieing to him same as any one person, but this is worst because a spirit is a spirit and can affect things in the spirit realm let's just say he dose something wrong depending on that entity, it may just be forgiven or, worst... He or something/someone would die.
It's foolish to say stop judging, if I do that in the most literal sense wouldn't I die? I need to judge especially with that of a sound and clear mind ya know.
@@Fallen-Saint “Smart people learn from everything and everyone. Average people learn from their experiences. Ignorant people only care about gossip, food and s__. Stupid people already have the answers.” ~ Socrates
I'm a pagan from England how you doing everyone
Hello I am doing good how are you doing ?
@@yogaby_gab happy thank you
Pagan from turkey 😊🇹🇷
Pagan (norse) from Canada. And good.
Hello,fellow English pagan 👋 I’m good thanks, how are you?
I'm a Christian who's in a relationship with a pagan. I love her to death, but I feel like there's a massive disconnection when it comes to religion. We're both trying to understand each other and learn each other, and I think this is a good example of our differences. I will probably show her this!
Our God teaches us to not date people who are unequally yoked brother. You two will never understand each other.
An excellent job, Scarlet! I hope you'll make more videos like this.
This is a very thoughtful and intelligent discussion of the two worldviews. I would respectfully ask to allow me to add a couple of thoughts from my own perspective as a practicing polytheist. For me the essential difference between Pagan and Christion worldviews is that we Pagans and polytheists have a hugely different take on our relationship to nature. Pagans say that we are not apart from or distinct from nature, that nature is what gives us life and form, what sustains us. We are part of nature, not its master. We do not look down on what is natural but revere it. We don't think of nature as evil. We revere and worship the Gods who may manifest themselves through and in nature. Christianity, on the other hand, holds nature as evil and beneath us, a thing to be conquered, used and tossed away, a thing that cannot help our spirituality. You did discuss this in your presentation.
On the Mercy vs. Warrior issue, I'm not exactly sure that Christianity is all that merciful and peaceful. The history of Western Christianity is a history replete with much bloodshed, persecutions, wars, and violence. The early Christian Church was rife with doctrinal arguments that often led to violence between the orthodox factions and the opposition. The Crusades against the Muslims; the wars fought during and after the Reformation between Protestant Christian and Catholic Christian rulers in Europe; the suppression of dissenters by most Christian churches; the oppression and degradation of women (including their exclusion from the R.C. clergy to this day); the persecution of the Jews in Europe; the teaching that slavery was not sinful; the forced conversions of the indigenous peoples in South America; the "just war" teaching. The list goes on. I submit that Christianity does not qualify for a Nobel prize to show it is a religion devoted to peace and mercy.
Thanks for letting me vent. Please consider making another video, you're excellent at leading a discussion.
This a great view my fellow polytheist, now this is something that most monotheist people should have, a respectful, understanding and see commonality to conversation without arguing and enforcing opinions or statements, they can agree and disagree respectfully but it always ends in arguments and disrespect, smh, even amongst other monotheist they argue lol
I laughed when you said “not ascend to heaven” instead of “burn in hell for eternity” like my parents taught me. I’m glad I escaped Christianity.
You clearly have no idea what Christianity is about nor do your parents if true. Sad really. Growing up believing what you do.
@@ItzMeNike bruh there’s no proof that Christianity is real so get off ur high horse
@@ItzMeNike christianity needs to confront it's hippocrasy.
@@ewew7185 there is. So many prophecies are happening right now.
@arun mehta both Desert Monkey Allah God.
I am a practicing christian with an academic curiosity about religion in general and paganism in particular. This video is pretty interesting video and from what I can tell it paints a correct image of how christianity and paganism compare. I read some historical fiction set in ancient times some times and I just noticed that the way they speak about religion it comparable to the way you speak.
If you really want to study Paganism, check out this channel ruclips.net/video/EwTyA9R9CHo/видео.html
Check out Dr. Michael Heiser here on YT. He's a teacher of ancient near eastern languages and a Christian. He emphasizes what the claims of the Judeo Christian religion would have sounded like to the ancient pagan mind. And also accepts the reality that pagan deities of "the nations" really existed.
@@Jim-Mc yeah, because those "deities" were the same three people: Baal (aka Nimrod who is mentioned in the bible), Semiramis (she is referred to as "the Queen of Heaven" in the bible), and Tammuz.
endrtimes.blogspot.com/2009/08/semiramis-queen-of-heaven-mother-of-god.html?m=1
What you need to do is to study the bible and not listen to what pastors have to say because most of them are liars. Let God lead you while you study. Study the true origins of Christianity and why you shouldn't follow it because it is riddled with paganism because of the Romans. The Christianity of now is not the same as it was right after Jesus died.
I did used to be a christian, but i've gone into a pagan/magical path now. I think your views are very accurate on the differences between the two! Especially with the alfterlife. I used to be so focused on it but now I'm focused on actually living my life, and like you said, the afterlife isn't so important anymore.
You dear Lady are absolutely right on your analysis. As a 62 y.o. female who attended church from the age of 40 days to 19 years of age 6x a week, religious indoctrination was the norm. This actually led me away from the “church”. My grandma was a “closet Shaman”, she had the “gift of sight” and she was highly respected because she knew so much and how to apply that knowledge, (as herbs 🌿, prayers, mantra). I studied the Catholic doctrine, Santeria, Islam and Buddhism and none of them “called to me” but, Paganism has.👍🏽
I grew up with my family making me go to church until I said I wouldn’t and have always practiced like a pagan 🙏🏻✨
My take at the moment: I don't see Jesus as solely a meek, humble and merciful peace-nik . He exemplified being a non-violent, spiritual warrior when he continually called out the self proclaimed religious "elite" of the day for their hypocrisy while maintaining a neutral / non-judgmental perspective. Yes, he was much more emphatic, relentless and warrior-like on them than he was on the common person (who didn't espouse to be holier than thou) because, with rare exception, that's the only way they would listen. He was pro war against the individual and collective ego.
He talked about "self - empowerment" when reminding people that the kingdom of heaven is within each of us.
I would venture to say that Christianity may have just as many facets/ sub-cultures as Paganism but am certainly no expert. More to the point, Jesus - Christianity has been hi-jacked by the religious establishment and used as a control mechanism for sheeple behavior.
Thanks for the opportunity to respond to your interesting video
This is golden.
Do you know sites like "Atheists for Jesus" and materials like Jesus Words Only and Jesus vs Paul? Do not judge the title "Atheists", because the guy behind the site takes Jesus' moral teaching more seriously than most christians. It was because of his work and of his peers that I came to understand that Jesus was a incredible man and master of morality, but still a man. That his earliest followers (ebionites) did not worship him and that Paul hijacked his name and turn it in the exact opposite it was intended to be. Sorry for the long post, but I hope it helps you in your journey.
Um, what Jesus did was judgment...
Judging others was just a way of correction, so that the other person wouldn't go down the wrong path. The bible says to judge one another, and it is to be done so with love (where the commandment for loving your neighbor as you would yourself comes from) because people sometimes lose their way (for example addiction). We want to help people, but the word "judge" has been so grossly misused that people take offense to it. Helping one another is the truest form of God's love.
@@AdlerMow Christian here, but I don't see myself angry with an Atheist that likes Jesus. I see it as a great thing. :)
I would love a part two of this 😊
Same
As an exchristian and as someone new to pagan practice, I can definitely relate to this. Nowadays, pagans are definitely less judgemental than christians. In the US, 99% of homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, racism, xenophobia, and other hate that I see comes from christians. To contrast, I know of many LGBTQ people who practice WICCA. There are also so many other things that I can't get behind Christianity on either where paganism just makes much more sense.
I grew up as a child with the understanding of Christianity but I am a Norse Pegan, I feel happy and free. Thank you for your amazing videos, SKAL 🤙🏾
Are you??? Yu might like this mans page. ruclips.net/video/WlZCI4qCBCc/видео.html
Sláinte
I live in the USA. Right now there is a lot of conversations about "Religious Freedom" what bothers me is that some Christians seem to think that this only applies to them. SMH I know that not all Christians are like this but there are enough to make me worried.
Christianity is just to stressful for me🙅🏻♂️
Then ask God to help
It gets stressful if you follow the structure the church has created. If you look at a lot of the rules are historical laws that are based on what was accepted during the time the Bible was written. If you focus on the core of Christianity and don’t get caught in the hysteria of the church it’s got all kinds of uncanny similarities to paganism.
@@GrammazCookiez list them?
@@Fallen-Saint that didn’t work
@@sophiarolli5892 well, stop looking for quick fixes, you talk to God then, you do. It's simpl as that. Maybe you fail or maybe not, but at least try
I’ve been doing spells and working with spirits for decades. I was worried some monotheistic boogeyman was going to get me if I contacted gods . Just the opposite. The pagan path opened me up to the gods. Totally interesting. Funny as I work with them, I am learning these qualities you mentioned. Thanks so much for great video!
I am a Christian exploring paganism. This video is truly helpful.
Glad you liked the video :)
Read my too comments to find out everything you need! I had to split the text in pieces due to RUclips’s limits when it comes to text! I swear it is all you ever need to know. Hope you do read it in my comments at the top of this video! Skål!
Stay Christian ✝️
I'm grateful that you added that quote from Marcus Aurelius. A lot of people assume that stoicism is a dry, rational and soulless philosophy when in reality it just promotes discipline and clear thinking.
Such synchronization. I just posted a video about "healing from organized religion". 😇 It's so healing to listen of others' accounts. Much love Scarlet. ❤
Do you cover a healing from Unitarian Universalism?
To be fair- No one can call you godless when Freya, Tyr, and Heimdall are all gods with you. 🌞 👍
The more I learn, the more ridiculous I think Abrahamic religions are.
Abrahamic? Is that everything other than christianity? 👏🏻👏🏻. Your words are pointless at the end of the day if that is the case of your point. You do realize that, right? When a christian push their faith on you almost as they are god himself and not respecting you as a person, they have been going against their own faith by their actions. You just did. Stop judging cuz of your kind’s enormous ego👊 respect people for who they are and the world will seem happier when they meet you🍻
What do you expect? *Genesis 22:1-18* "God said to Abraham, 'Take your son, your only son, whom you love - Isaac - and *SACRIFICE* him on the mountain' . . . Abraham bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar. Then he took the knife to slay his son. But the angel of the Lord called out to him, 'Do not do anything to him _(APRIL'S FOOL!)._
Now I know that you *FEAR* God. . . Because you have not withheld your only son, Your descendants will take possession of the cities of their *enemies,* because you have _obeyed_ me.'”
A catholic could work with angels or saints. An angel is a supernatural being and a saint is a human that acended to a supernatural state, but neither are considered "gods". So you could be technically monotheistic and practically polytheistic.
Protestants don't really talk about saints and angels only when directly mentioned in the bible, so this crossover might be more difficult for them.
My dad is half Borneo pagan and half Catholic. And I'm leaning toward my Borneo paganism. Borneo paganism still practice in Borneo although not many practice, only old people who still practice it. The young ones have no interest in their roots😢
I believe the biggest difference is Pagans view the world as a series of things intertwined to create an outcome, seeing the world as more of an overall conglomeration or amalgamation rather than a single diety's divine plan.
Im a senior at Liberty University. Im a baby wiccan. I should state that I'm just now finding my way into Wicca. I haven't really been Christian for a while and was just floating. I feel very much in the broom closet at Liberty and at my parents. Luckily I have my wife and her mom who are both Pagan. While the students are nice at Liberty University (contrary to outsider belief), they would definitely frown upon my beliefs and try to proselytize. I can't imagine being in constant fear of hell. But whatever makes you happy and positive.
In the Christian Bible it actually mentions multiple gods. So Christians who believe there is only one, are actually going against what their own book states. The Bible just specifies that Yahweh is the most high God, who judges the other gods, and you should be devoted to Him only.
Also, the idea of faith in Christianity is solely based in a blood sacrifice: the blood sacrifice of Jesus to be exact. It’s not believing they are right or believing God exists. It is believing that this blood sacrifice was for you as an offering of atonement. For Christians, this sacrifice also means they no longer have to offer animal blood sacrifices.
A lot of what is thought to be part of the Christian religion is actually part of Christian traditions, and is not mentioned in the Bible at all. These traditions were influenced by who was in power at the time they became popular, and other things.
In summary, Christians who actually read the Bible from an analytical and historical perspective, not just a perspective given to them from a pulpit, will realize that it has more in common with its Pagan roots (Abram was a pagan worshipper of the moon before he became Abraham) than they were taught.
I come from Jehovah's Witnesses. I am so glad I got out and follow a witch style life. That Christian religion just filled me with so much fear, guilt, and shame. I love witchcraft and the spirits who have helped me
@Mike Knight Yes, the Jehovah's Witnesses are a cult. And ofc, many members do not realize this. I was very lucky to open my eyes
Being a Christian is a freedom our God just doesn’t want us to do bad so there are things that is called sin and if we are bad Christians would do bad things please respect
@@jerriecoline7571 I was talking about Christian religions that ARE a cult. The JW are a cult. They literally have all the red flags of being an abusive, manipulative, cult.
Kurami Rocket cult?
Kurami Rocket oh ok I guess I don’t really focus about those cults
Donald Michael Kraig had a really good summary of Christianity that I heard in one of his lectures, the main idea is: “vicarious salvation“. Almost all the other religions say that you are responsible for your own spiritual path, but Christianity gives you an out just by faith in their dying and rising God (Which technically makes them a death cult, not that there’s anything necessarily wrong with that)
If you look at the golden verses of the Pythagoreans, there is the idea of sending “to the free upper air“ but that is where you become “deathless, Divine , a mortal one no more“.
I don't know what I believe yet, but one thing that bothers me about Christianity is its focus on the afterlife. I rarely ever think about what, if anything, happens after death. I live in the here and now, not in some heaven that may or may not actually exist. A big struggle when I was trying to be a Christian was trying to make myself believe in heaven; it just doesn't make sense to me. If I do ever find a spirituality for me, I want it to be something that helps and guides me through THIS life, regardless of whether or not something comes after. When I see people wasting their lives waiting for heaven, I just feel sad for them. Like, why waste your one and only precious life on earth waiting for something that might not even be real?
It’s so funny because the second I clicked on this, there were 666 views 😂
She's the scarlet woman from the Book of Revelation.
@@magpiecity lol what
It is impressive how profound your understanding and kowledge of the different pagan paths is. I personally follow the Cultus Deorum Romanorum, and whenever you touched the Roman Religion, you were spot-on.
I have only one question to Christianity. If we do some wrong (sin) to people then how can God save you. Every person has to face punishment according to his deeds or karma. Even God cannot save him. Is your God so corrupt that he forgives you?
God is so PURE and wise and good rather that He forgives you. That is where Jesus comes in. He took the corruptedness you speak of and took that upon Himself so that we might be forgiven. The difference here is accordance and Who truly writes the accord. I encourage you to read the gospel of John as a start.
Great video, very thought provoking. You touched on this several times but one key difference I think of between Pagans and Christians is the idea of original sin. In Christianity humanity cannot avoid sin and must be forgiven by Christ. In paganism I would say nothing is inherently sinful.
Pagans are 'born right' the first time.
Chad Pagan vs Virgin Christian
Scarlet, one glaring difference between Christianity & Paganism..
Evangelic Christians tend to judge people who don't believe as they do
I think the main distinction would be in the sense and spirit of worship. Churches, religious icons, incense; worship is kind of a theater for most Christians. I'd say Paganism is more like a full-time gig.
Really? I’d say it was completely the other way round - Christians I’ve met who are REALLY Christian take worship and prayer very seriously. What i mean by ‘really Christian” that is a lot of people i know say they’re Christian because their parents were but don’t really believe in God, so they don’t really do much and think of it as ‘theatre’ because they don’t really believe it’s real. But devoted Christians go to Church every Sunday, they pray daily, etc, etc, it’s what is NEEDED in the religion. There are a lot of rules. Whereas Pagans, don’t. Some don’t even do ANYTHING, at all, they just believe. The whole point of Paganism is you can do anything you want - you can decide to do rituals everyday or you can just celebrate the sabbaths/holidays.
Count Saša Exactly! That’s why i’m saying that I think being a Christian is more of a full-time gig, not Paganism
I could listen to this subject all day long .
Great video Scarlet! I come from a Jewish background but I have studied all the major religions. I studying with shamans for many years and I basically have my own worldview which is probably a mixture of many beliefs. I do believe in karma and reincarnation and I’m making a documentary on reincarnation that should be finished this summer. I like how open minded you are and you are an excellent teacher.
What a good video thank you! I'm definitely interested in more on this topic.
Hi Scarlet, Magi Verdi here! :-)
After watching this video, I realized not how much Pagan and Christian views are different from each other, but how paradoxical they are in their natures; they are different paths yet still point to the same direction: an understanding of Source. It's also fascinating how both belief systems seem to find a way to integrate some aspects of the other into their own, though it would seem that Christianity tends to adapt more Pagan beliefs than the other way around. Still, I personally appreciate the existence of the two, as both are just a few of the many faces of spirituality.
Thanks for sharing and making this video. 😊❤
You're absolutely right that Christianity has adapted paganism.
That’s because all religions influence one another. Because we are social animals when we meet we inevitably share ideas, whether or not it’s intentional, this includes religion. It’s why for example, the god pan changed over time from a terrifying monstrous god, to a silly one, then eventually became Dionysus. Or why you find gods like Hermeanubis.
Paganism promotes spiritual enlightenment. Not oppression!
We see ourselves as part of nature, NOT it's overlord.
We do not fear the afterlife, for there is NO hell...
We honour & venerate our Deities so that they may empower us to forge our own path towards spiritual enlightenment, we don't have to beg for mercy and pray to be saved because we are inherently flawed... Instead we aspire to the best versions of ourselves.
***
These are but a few differences I mentioned above, many of which the reason for my conversion. I grew up in a very pious Christian home. Fearing every day that I'll go to hell for being gay, and committing countless other atrocities deemed as sin. Fearing that I am being judged every second of every day for being an inherently flawed being. For the longest time being ignorant that there was more to the world than what lies within the pages of the bible. Breaking free from the bonds of being a servant, to being a beacon of power and independence. Blessed be to all who walk this path.
Thank you for sharing your story. You will always be welcome in the Pagan community. :)
Skål!🍻 cant wait to see u in Valhall one day
You have a very clear, non judgemental/non bias, comforting way of speaking and presenting your knowledge and views ^___^ myself a Christian who believes in only 1 God, I also believe that God made beings like faeries. I also believe that people were made the way they are supposed to be, such as views possibly against the Bible like LGBTQ2+ people, or people who believe in a different religion for example. I believe they are exactly how they are supposed to be and they are loved just the same and that’s how God made, anyone. The thing I try to live my life by is the commandments, to not lie, not cheat, and so on.... to be the best person I can be. Is it possible someone to believe in one God and believe he has created beings like faeries? Thank you for your time ❤️
I respect you and your choice for your worldview and religion. I'm curious what your thoughts are on this though--if you're willing to hear some pushback:
Why did christian god create unrepentant sinners? With his perfect foresight he would have known they would be unrepentant sinners in life and yet he created them anyway with perfect foresight of their eternal torment in the afterlife. Also you say the unrepentant sinner is just being "exactly how they are supposed to be" but that dooms them to eternal torment in hell? They had no choice in their creation: christian god forced them into existence seemingly just so that they would fail and suffer for forever. Sounds to me like christian god isn't entirely benevolent
You did a great job with a difficult topic. One comment on Christianity. I would say Christianity has linear view which looks to a future ideal age to come (most popular is going to heaven after death but many scholars believe this was not the focus but instead the focus was an ideal age on earth). It seems Paganism is more cyclical embracing the present.
I wonder what does Paganism with its focus on the cycle have to say to such a present
@@soulseeker1483 The Wheel of the Year teaches us that life is a cycle of light and dark, reaping and sowing, sex and death, effort and rest, growth and decay. The point is that even if 'the present sucks' as the other commenter has said, it's not permanent. It's just another point on the Wheel. We will pass out of it and grow stronger and wiser for it and when that point on the Wheel comes around again, with a different but similar situation, we'll know better how to handle it. To learn to appreciate and love every point on the Wheel, not just the ones that we may personally favor and find more joyous, is the challenge. Whoops! How did I end up on this soapbox? I'll get off now...
Euphonia Carstairs thanks for getting on your soapbox that was helpful
That's really interresting ! As a pagan who works for a christian bookshop (being christian was not a requirement to work there but they think I'm an angostic or atheist although I've never told them about my faith at all) I always have opportunities to hear what they have to say about the world, their faith or their vision of life. It's very different from paganism and what stikes me is the firm conviction that everyone who is not a christian is somewhat in need to be saved. They have this kind of "I really want to help other by opening their eyes" vibe. In addition, all the suffering they experience in life (death of someone, financial struggles etc.) is percieved to be a lesson from God to drive teach them something and testing their faith. In contrast, norse gods could be judged and even temporaly punished by humans if they happened to be too harsh on them and to not fullfill what the humans asked for despite having a lot of offerings. Devoted could even stop bringing any offering to the god to show his disappointment. It was one of the reasons it was difficult to make norsemen understand christianity, as they will stop to worship God and Jesus if their prayers happened to not be fullfilled. Realy a different vision here.
Those professing a "true" god do not understand the meaning of the word. As Proclus said, truth is relational.Thank you Scarlet.
One difference is pagans attempt to engage with the spiritually realm and even demonic/unclean spirits with benevolence. Most Christian denominations don't belive we can take charge over spirits. One only needs to look at the failed exorcism that starts in Acts 19:13 to see how vulnerable humans are to demonic spirits. Truly terrifying.
I remember from one of Ocean's videos that historically, there were records of Christian witches, along with spells/rituals they used. Which was really fascinating. 😄
Lol that is hypocritical
They honestly are full of themselves, most of them
This is a wonderful video! Great facts. Thank you.
Like many people, I started as Christian (Catholic), and am so happy to have found my true calling (Druidry).
Don't know if you knew already but Catholicism is extremely pagan. The pope has been seen having fertility statues and worshipping Mary is false idolatry (that's if you did worship her. I don't know if all Catholics do) because she is not a god, despite the "Queen of Heaven" name...which by the why, is the same name as other goddesses.
endrtimes.blogspot.com/2009/08/semiramis-queen-of-heaven-mother-of-god.html?m=1
Don't know if you knew already but Catholicism is extremely pagan. The pope has been seen having fertility statues and worshipping Mary is false idolatry (that's if you did worship her. I don't know if all Catholics do) because she is not a god, despite the "Queen of Heaven" name...which by the why, is the same name as other goddesses.
endrtimes.blogspot.com/2009/08/semiramis-queen-of-heaven-mother-of-god.html?m=1
@@sarahdonnelly534 you have a cute baby
A part 2 would be nice. It's a nice collection of thoughts and a good reflection. Definitely a good discussion to find a middle ground between religious groups.
If I’m correct. The idea of meek is wrong, as it was written in Greek the meaning of meek wasn’t of a soft gentle man, but of a man whom carries a sword and knows how to use it but has no need of it. In other words a warrior.
I love this lesson!! Very informative, and awesome view from different perspectives.
Blessed be, Mannon!
I would love if you did the video on science in paganism vs. christianity
YES
Great idea!
As someone who comes from a Catholic background, I dont think you were being too harsh on Christianity, especially with the dark history behind the bible as well as the equally dark history of the Christian church. Thank you for this video and sending love and many blessings from the Uk xx
Scarlet I love listening to how you explore and explain so many things from the earliest days available to research.
Summary:
1. One allmighty, «perfect» and correct god vs More different, unique gods that you can chose your relationship with
2. Faith and salvation vs actions and moral
3. Humility and piety vs warrior and strenght (both pfysical and mental)
4. Afterlife and sacrifice vs this life and cycles
(5. Sinful fertility vs proud fertility)
Good video 👏 Marcus Aurelius quote got a lot truths to it I like it
No one really knows what is the afterlife so much science to it everyone’s got a soul where does that lead too no one really knows until you’re dead 💀 and dust to the earth
there’s nothing wrong believing in many gods i’m happy with all of them In every religion> but One true God < really that really was forced on to many people that were pagans change to Christianity killing many in the process
Also one thing for sure pagan community is on the rise over the world still going strong
I thought of myself as a pagan for many years. It didn't seem to be working out very well for me. I've found myself to be quite at home with the Lutheran Christianity that I was brought up with. No one forced me to. It just sort of clicked. It could be more of a community issue for me rather than one of theology. I'm probably a bit agnostic when it comes to the latter. No harm in keeping an open mind and checking it all out. It's all interesting.
Christianity has paganism in it though
I agree with you & that’s very interesting. I’m never going back to Christianity personally though as I was literally in the exact opposite situation of you. Growing up I was an outcast at church, as I’m an eccentric & they didn’t know how to take me. & found that I connected more with the beliefs of Pagans than Christians overall. I’m very happy that you found your place though.
Read my comments at the top of this video! I shared alot of things that might fall into interest for you! I had to split the text in half and I wrote it in a comment of mine. It’s about Valhall and the Afterlife, beliefs of Odinism / Paganism. I really hope you read it!
This is so sad. It hurts my heart to hear and see comments from people so misled into thinking such a destructive ideology can actually help answer life's purpose and questions :(
I agree I also feel bad for many Christians. But all we can do is educate these people who use fear to spread their so called faith.
Yeah paganism is very destructive
As one who was brought up Christian (LCMS), you are bang-on about Christianity. There are liberal and conservative variants; Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox; but the general message is faith over works and preparation for the hereafter. I went pagan after a long journey, informed by my study of ancient philosophy in college. One important (though boring) source for understanding the pagan worldview is Aristotle, particularly his Nicomachean Ethics, and the Physics.
Thank u for always being so respectful to all
Loved this video. I honestly don’t understand how someone could call themselves a Christian Pagan, because they’re both total opposites in my opinion from my experience, but you did an amazing job talking about the two(: I would love to see more!!
Mike Knight omg thanks!! love that show
Mike Knight love that show too!! 😂😂 have a blessed day, fellow breaking bad fan 🖤🖤
No, actually they're not different...one just spreads the agenda of one religion "being hateful" and the other "all about love". True Christianity isn't mixed with paganism like how modern Christianity is.
A Christian pagan would be someone who wants all the benefits of being a Christian but sees it being achievable through human means and philosophy. Probably similar to the Catholic way.....
i love this topic! i listened to a podcast on something similar and it really made me think: the guest was saying that the problem he has with pagan christians/christian pagans is that, one the ways christianity spread was destroying/villainizing pagan beliefs and culture and that the basis of christianity and the christian god demands that no other god be worshipped besides him. so, he was very anti bringing in christianity into your practice, because it was like... a very extreme conflict of interest. but! i do think its really interesting to see how and why people do it anyway!
i have heard some play around with the phrasing of "you shall worship no god BEFORE me" as a way to bring in lesser gods, but who knows! i just remember i was more than happy to cut all of that out once i left christianity, haha
Dyaus Pitar (Vedic), Zeus Pater (Greek), Jupiter (Roman), Dei Patrous (Illyrian), Dievs (Baltic).
Uṣas (Vedic), Eos (Greek), Aurora (Roman), Aushrine (Baltic).
Varuṇa (Vedic), Odinn/Wodan (Germanic), Ouranous (Greek), Velinas (Baltic).
Asura (Vedic), Aesir (Germanic), Ahura (Avestan).
Marut (Vedic), Ares (Greek), Mars (Roman).
Parjanya (Vedic), Perkunas (Baltic), Perunu (Slavic), Fjorgyn (Germanic).
Traitana (Vedic), Thraetaona (Avestan), Triton (Greek).
Aryaman (Vedic), Airyaman (Avestan), Ariomanus/Eremon (Celtic).
Saramā/Sārameya (Vedic), Hermes (Greek).
Pūṣan, Paṇi (Vedic), Pan (Greek), Vanir (Germanic).
Rudra (Vedic), Ruglu (Slavic).
Danu (Vedic), Danu (Irish).
Indra (Vedic), Indra (Avestan), Inara (Hittite).
Śarvara (Vedic), Kerberos (Greek).
Śrī (Vedic), Ceres (Greek), Freyr/Freya (Germanic).
Bhaga (Vedic), Baga (Avestan), Bog (Slavic).
Apām Napāt (Vedic), Apām Napāt (Avestan), Neptunus (Roman), Nechtain (Celtic).
Ṛbhu (Vedic), Elbe (Germanic).
Yama (Vedic), Yima (Avestan), Ymir (Germanic).
In the "pagan" worldview, tolerance of other religions or people rarely if ever occured. If you're going to call yourself "pagan" honestly, you have to view history through a lense absolutely free of Christian shading. Pre-christian paganism, more specifically, all of the Indo-European religious variations stemming from the same Indo-European root, that we have any records of, were very intolerant of other worldviews, and only tolerated differences so long as they were not seen as a threat to the propagation of your own beliefs and tribe. Paganism, if the term is to remain accurate to the original idea (it was a word used by Christians to label other, more ancient beliefs) should reject Christian notions of violence. You should seek the betterment of your own people, regardless of the consequences to other peoples, within reason. Obviously, you don't want to be so ambitious that other groups see you as a threat. You want to be strong and unassailable, while also being diplomatic, especially in today's world of mass media and global communication. Thousands of years ago, an empire could form without distant tribes knowing or having the opportunity to build a federation to combat it's growth. Nowadays, you do anything today and everyone knows tomorrow, around the world. Hence the use of cameras and newspapers by ghandi and MLK to benefit their peoples by feeding on the compassion and also the tribal interests of the members of the dominant group, as well as the dominant group's own adversaries. Basically moral/political blackmail.
I respectfully disagree! The definition of Paganism is to simply believe in more then one god or goddess, you may be thinking of one of the wings underneath Paganism because there are certainly more strict parts of it but there are definitely parts of Paganism that don’t believe that at all! Please don’t spread misinformation or hate❤️❤️❤️
@@nixous287 simply, you're wrong. You're describing a category of religion called "polytheism". PAGANISM, as historically considered, as a range of prechristian religious beliefs of Eurasia, refers to the beliefs of the Indo-European traditional religions, which all generally branched out from a fundamental, root proto-indo-european religion which was spread across Eurasia through the militarism and economic and biological superiority of it's adherents. Learn your history before attempting to correct others and claiming to know definitions or facts. Nordic, Celtic, Germanic, Roman, Greek, Hindu, Slavic, Baltic, and many other religious traditions that existed before Christianity all stem from a family tree of related religions which spread across the continent over the course of tens of thousands of years.
@@nixous287 that’s not necessarily the case. There are polytheistic groups that don’t like being called pagan for cultural reasons & atheist pagans as well. Traditionally Wiccans dualistic, but they too are pagan. A pagan channel called Styx & Stonehenge made a video talking about its meaning
@@c4call yeah, but they were still different & influenced on another. & in fact, Christianity may very well have inspired Ragnarok. All religions are connected & it’s very strange because it’s also something people kill each over other. Also I’m not trying to be rude just want to make sure you know that many Hindus don’t like being called pagan same with Native Americans.
OK, not the most accurate balanced analysis but what really matters is to talk about these things. The conversation is the road to understand and learn. I commend Scarlet for making the video. Thank you.
Native American and hindu philosophies work well. I believe the perception of a creator is very important as well as mother earth discipline. As long as it's very environmental based and nature/humanitarian spiritual, you're on the right journey, that's my perspective
I’m a 12 year old Christian my mom would kill me if she knew I was watching pagan stuff I don’t want to be pagan but it’s cool
Hey hun, I grew up as a Christian as well and also would’ve been ‘killed’ if I researched outside stuff. Keep that curious part of you. Even if you remain a Christian as an adult, it’s ok to research others view points and cultures and religions. Learning isn’t wrong💚💚
De MacPherson I'm not saying not listening to you're parents are a good thing but what religion or beliefs you want to follow is not you're mothers choice
@@drw9438 I am not tryna be Christian
@@mymtaomengyao so you dont want to be Christan
Read my comments at the top of this video! I shared alot of things that might fall into interest for you! I had to split the text in half and I wrote it in a comment of mine. It’s about Valhall and the Afterlife, beliefs of Odinism / Paganism. I really hope you read it!
Don’t care about your parents my friend. They will have to respect you for who you are. They don’t live your life, you do.
“Heilung” converted me to “paganism.” 😜😈
Such an amazing band!! Have you seen them live? I think that would be an incredible experience
Pagan Mum I haven’t but I’d love to👍🏻😜
Yes I’d love to hear about the science in Pagan vs Christianity!
There's no science to it. Modern Christianity is riddled with paganism. Everything that Jesus taught was thrown out the door after his death because of the Romans and their pagan practices.
That Marcus Aurelius quote is a banger... top quality Roman Emperor and Stoic role model. 🤩
I loved this video! It was extremely informative but in a fun way! I have always found that the Christian faith has this very strict and serious tone about it. At least it did where I grew up. However, Paganism has always had this light and happy tone to it. ESPECIALLY the holidays. Pagans know how to party for sure.
You can try to include the christian god in your patheon, but I doubt very strongly that this will go well.
The christian god first doctrin is to not worship other gods. Its the first of the ten commandments.
practising withcraft ist to be punished with death.
Paganism and christianity are the absolute opposite in many ways
What do you mean to say exactly?
@@N0skGaming
That one cant combine paganism/ witchcraft with christianity.
Not If one want to take yahweh or christianity serious.
Yahweh is to jealous and absolute.
If you want to include some thoughts or Traditions, maybe.
Christianity absorbed a Lot of pagan Traditions as Well, and there are a Lot of Mixed ways.
But the real Deal?
No
@@fjeldfross9327 I agree. U can’t mix the faiths.
Thank you. This very enjoyable. I've lived in a very conservative town before and it was mostly if you don't go to a "church" , you were going to he**. No if's, and's or buts about it. I have since moved on from that town. Again thank you so much for making these types of content. It was very enjoyable.
I'm sorry you dealt with that, because going to church is not necessary since the true church is a group of like minded people who meet up anywhere to pray and study the bible together. It's never been about the building.
The thing about Valhalla, to my knowledge is such: You had to believe in the old gods, die with a weapon in your hand in battle, and you had to have committed a superhuman feat in battle, say, like a Beowulf type would. For example, take 20 guys on in battle, kill all of them, and then die fighting somehow in that same battle. Plus, Valhalla was a place of hedonism, of excess. That means once admitted to Valhalla you eat excessively, drink excessively, have sex excessively, and fight and die every “ day” there. Not everyone would want Valhalla I would think. Not me especially. Most people go to Hel or some other of the Norse afterlives.
And my knowledge is that not EVERY warrior went to Valhall. You could die in battle bravely, but that doesn't mean you'll get chosen. And frankly, the chosen feasting in Valhalla, fighting each other every day for grins, is basically Odin warming everyone up because those warriors will be fighting in Ragnarok. A fight Odin loses, as I recall. So it's not all fun and games for those in Valhalla.
Druid Riley yes. That is why, like I said you had to be exceptional. Not just “ brave” in the sense that you went out and fought, but also that you did an almost superhuman feat while fighting. Like I said, a Beowulf or Sigurd type. That is why not everyone and I think, but don’t quote me, “most” of the slain weren’t chosen. Plus, I believe from what I have learned from different astute and knowledgeable youtubers, is that Ragnarok has a ton of Christian influence because the only things we have it written down is by Snorri Sturrlusson ( probs butchered that spelling, sorry). And so far as many scholars know, he was heavily influenced by Christianity in Iceland because that country was already Christian for a few hundred years after the whole “ Viking” time. Just reading about Ragnarok and hearing about it makes you think, yeah, that sounds like Armageddon or something.
"Have sex excessively" sound like rape - presumably of the conquered 😪
Everything here is not true. And you can reach Valhall without killing somebody / go out fighting for your life. Read my comments at the top of this video! I shared alot of things that might fall into interest for you! I had to split the text in half and I wrote it in a comment of mine. It’s about Valhall and the Afterlife, beliefs of Odinism / Paganism. I really hope you read it!
Only have recently begun to step back into this path, three things I have noticed. One is that it is more comforting with oneself than the strange push to transcend your body, as if the body is the problem. Related to that is often a notion I have seen among some Christians to deem the world as a problem, and it must be overcome. These two together cause many people it seems to be divorced from what can be a good life. To the ideal of the warrior, Christians do seem to have an ideal of a warrior/soldier, but it seems to be a very arrogant and persecutory figure, as opposed to the meek ideal that's preached. Thank you the time.
really? represent paganism with pentagram? pentagram is a symbol that has no connection with paganism, it is a modern symbol invented by "little witches". It would be like representing paganism with a cross of David.
Actually the Pentagram goes all the way back to Ancient Greece. It's practically a multipurpose symbol that can be used for whatever you please. Even in Early Christianity, they use the Pentagram to describe Jesus Christ & his 5 wounds.
It still has no connection whatsoever with paganism, it is just a geometric design, there is no connection with any deity.@@Mr.Atari2600
As a progressive Christian I don’t follow the belief that only Christians go to heaven.
Except that's what the bible says will happen. And then not all Christians either. This is why most progressive, liberal Christians finally switched to paganism. They realized that they were changing Christianity so much to fit their world view, they really couldn't say they were following Christianity anymore.
@@druidriley3163 The Bible also says God can bring anyone to Heaven for whatever reason He wants, so your logic is a bit flawed.
@@ciarak8070 - cite your source?
@@druidriley3163 In many Catholic churches, sources are read to the people, so I cannot quote the exact verse. However, it is derived from the understanding that God is all powerful and can basically do whatever He wants, so even those who "follow the rules" aren't guaranteed to go to Heaven, but are more likely, and those who do not; additionally, those who never attend church may be saved in the catechism if He chooses so. It's one of the big differences in ideologies between different Christian groups, especially fundamentalist Protestant Christians and mystical Catholics. That's why I believe her video was oversimplifying groups that have too many differences, and she ignores many nuances. That's also why I think your logic is flawed as it seems that your interpretation is based on a specific translation of the Bible as well as a specific interpretation that is not universally held by all Christians.
@@druidriley3163 and to add further Nuance to my response, even the same mystical Catholics who believe that God can save anyone for any reason, also believe that you cannot be saved through faith alone and have to have action or "works" to get into Heaven. Not to mention there's no consensus as far as what heaven actually is, so your idea that liberal Christian's convert to paganism because they're altering the beliefs of Christianity, is largely rooted in the idea that Christianity has a universal set of ideas, which it does not. Christianity is as diverse as paganism.
I went from Paganism to Christianity and would like to add that there are many similarities between the two paths! There are several pagan practices that I kept when becoming Christian. Love this video!
I think someone is lost
Actually that's how the whole Christianity is. Most of the Christian things are copied from paganism. Specially their festivals. So yeah ur just another Christian admitted stealing other religious cultures. Hope u get paid well from the church
Don't tell her what she is. She is whatever she wants to be. If she wants to be christian, so be it. Just because she is in another religion doesn't mean you have to crap on it. Stop trying to act like she just did something bad. She isn't harming anybody.
@@astrochemist1107 Agreed, just as long as she doesn't spread fear and intolerance she's fine
The Bible specifically says not to to adopt and adapt to pagan traditions.
The bible is a great story book with great guidelines to live your life by for those who choose to follow that story. Growing up in a Methodist environment I was taught about this book. I never really quite fit in. It wasn't my cup of tea. I would ask questions and would be told that I shouldn't have the questions I had and that I should pray to God for the answers. I found the answers from within. I found immense strength within myself. I then started to educate myself in all things I was questioning. I found that paganism was something I related to the most. After 35 years of questioning I finally found what works for me and speaks to me. I am a Pagan witch. However someone chooses to live their life and follow what speaks to them is up to that person. There is no judgement from me. I am just very secure with myself and I only need to be accountable to myself at the end of the day. The beautiful thing about Paganism is the more the merrier, there is strength in numbers. No matter where your path leads you, your moral compass is the correct path. Trust it. Let it guide you.
Blessed be.
So as a Christian I came here out of curiosity, not necessarily to fight anyone but just to understand pagan beliefs better. I was wondering if theres any specific beliefs pagans have about morality? Does paganism say anything about right and wrong?
I don't know if you would count them as paganism, but I think I can call myself a "Shinto Buddhist" (Soto Zen Buddhism to be more precise).
I'll start with the Shinto one because it's a tad bit complicated. Basically it's a set of beliefs not built around a scripture, nor around a leader, but rather glimpses and remains of the poetries and overall beliefs that were in Japan before Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism came there (even tho Shinto now is heavily influenced by them). So there is a concept of wrong called "tsumi", that I'm gonna translate as sins for the sake of the argument, "Heavenly sins" are wrong actions you commited that are not just wrong to your surroundings, but to a more cosmic sense, like blasphemy or murder or doing something against the laws of nature to the point it creates suffering to you and others. Earthly sin would be something like being rude, coming late to work, things that are disagreable, but not ultimately horrific, they still are wrong actions that makes life more complicated to everybody. The goal of Shinto would be to do what you can to remain as pure as you were at the start, and that include things like misogi (basically bathing, not just physically, you need to "wash" yourself mentally) and stay connected to the overall "greater nature" in the process. Not doing so means you now are corrupted and, while it's not eternal damnation, it's up to you to clean up for your mistake in that life or the other.
Now with Zen you have a moment when Dogen was talking about good and evil. One of his teachings was "do not commit wrong actions, and accomplish many right actions". Dogen didn't believe in Good and Evil in a western sense, but the idea is that here and now is good, Evil comes from the past or the future. You do unreasonable things because of a grudge you can't simply let go, or because you really need to get to that moment later when you get your dopamine hit. For example, Zen uses the practice of Zazen (sitting down, and just experiecing reality, or as Brad Warner would say it, "Sit down and Shut up"), but Dogen says that people doing Zazen "to get illuminated" are therefore wrong people because they are expecting something in return, they are doing X so they get Y later, and it is wrong from the Zen perspective. (And I think it's not far from Isaiah saying something similar about good actions being dirty rags if done "just so you can get to Heaven")
Those two beliefs agree on two things. 1. No action is naturally good or evil, it is the overall context that will determine it. 2. Wrong is something that goes against the natural order of things ("Daigenrei" in Shinto, "Dharma" in Zen) and therefore brings suffering (or "un-necessary suffering" for Zen) to you and others, and you did it, you owe that mess, and you have to do the work to learn and/or make up for it. I did my best to overly simplified them, because as time goes on, I realise its more complex than I first imagined it to be.
I'm Wiccan which is a much more modern pagan religion but that has the "Wiccan Rede" which says "as long as you harm none, do what you will" and "what you send forth shall come back by three" which means there's 3-fold karma for what you do whether its positive or negative.
Pagan religions have a lot to say about virtues and morality. Many of the virtues Christianity now puts forward as its own were in fact Pagan first. Prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance, the so-called "cardinal virtues" in the Christian tradition were held by the ancient Greeks and others. Faith, hope and charity are the only uniquely Christian ones in that overall theory of ethics.
Other ethical systems followed by many modern Pagans are patterned after those of pre-Christian societies such as the Vikings. The "Nine Virtues of Troth" held by many modern followers of Asatru (ie modern Viking religion) include:
Truth, courage, honor, fidelity, discipline, hospitality, industriousness, self-reliance, and perseverance. If you delve into the Havamal a collection of Viking age poems, you will find very lengthy treatment of ethics and morals in the form of advice for living, wisdom and right action.
Additionally, if you look at the myths surrounding the ancient Pagan gods in many cultures, you see many lessons about morality and ethics played out.
Pagan and Christian morality have some deep differences concerning the concepts of sin and salvation and sexual morality, but an awful lot of what you find in all of the world's religions is very basic Golden Rule type stuff most people's moms tried to impart on them before they went off to their first day of school.
Violence isn’t valued to me. But the ability to show a heightened proficiency in violence when necessary is mandatory