Both “pagan” and “heathen” initially served as pejorative terms used by early Christians. These labels distinguished those not adhering to Christianity. Each term has a distinct historical background, reflecting unique contexts and nuances that have shaped their use and evolution over time.
Origin and Meaning
Pagan: This term originates from the Latin “paganus,” initially meaning “rural” or “country dweller.” As Christianity spread to urban centers in the Roman Empire, “paganus” evolved to describe practitioners of ancient, polytheistic religions. This association with rural areas labeled the term as somewhat outdated compared to “civilized” Christian teachings.
Heathen: Deriving from Old English “hæðen,” thought to come from Old Norse “heiðinn,” “heathen” shares roots with the Gothic “haiþno.” Like “pagan,” it labeled non-Christians, particularly those seen as uncultured or primitive, often living in less cultivated lands.
In historical Christian writings, both “pagan” and “heathen” categorized those outside Christian belief. They frequently carried connotations of barbarism or uncivilization. “Heathen” sometimes further implied criminality or moral deviation.
Evolving Perceptions and Modern Usage
As society progressed into the 20th century, the once-pejorative terms “pagan” and “heathen” began to undergo a significant reclamation. This shift was largely driven by neopagan movements, which not only reclaimed these terms but also redefined them with a positive connotation, emphasizing a connection to pre-Christian spiritual traditions and practices.
Today, the term “paganism” encompasses a wide spectrum of earth-centered or nature-oriented spiritual paths. This includes, but is not limited to, Wicca, a modern pagan witchcraft tradition; Druidry, which revives the ancient Celtic religious practices; and various forms of reconstructed polytheistic religions that aim to revive the old gods of different cultures.
Each of these paths emphasizes a deep reverence for nature and typically involves rituals that honor seasonal cycles and natural phenomena.
On the other hand, “heathenism” specifically refers to the revival of Norse and other Germanic religious practices through movements like Ásatrú and Theodism. Ásatrú, in particular, seeks to restore the worship of Norse deities such as Odin, Thor, and Freya, focusing on the ethical and spiritual frameworks that were part of historical Norse society.
Heathenism, as a branch of modern paganism, prioritizes community and family, often organizing in groups known as “kindreds” or “hearths,” which celebrate festivals and conduct rituals based on ancient traditions.
This redefinition and resurgence of “pagan” and “heathen” reflect a broader cultural shift towards embracing spiritual diversity and recognizing the value of ancient wisdom in contemporary contexts. These movements highlight a collective desire to connect with spiritual heritage and find relevance in old rituals and beliefs in the modern world.