Ask in any Pagan gathering what one might do to connect deeply with a Pagan tradition, it’s a pretty safe bet that many of the responses will be to spend time in nature. It’s a good answer. Within those responses is an implication that you would be learning, and in learning, you’d gain understanding, and in understanding, you’d gain a deeper connection with the core of many Pagan traditions- the ‘divine’ in nature.
Spending time in nature will help you to see the how’s and whys of the differences between different elements within nature, why this plant grows well in this particular setting, how the light or shade, the access to the right nutrients and hydration affects its growth. Similar observations apply to other living beings in nature, too.
Another common response to questions about accessing Pagan traditions is to read, read, read. Again, it’s a good answer. I remember 40 years ago, you would have to find specialist bookshops or subscribe to a limited number of Pagan magazines if you wanted to find reading material on Pagan traditions. In high street bookshops, you might, at best find a few books on astrology, but little else. In todays world, you can easily find countless books describing different authors understanding of their tradition, online and even in high street bookshops, let alone countless websites and blogs. The vast majority of publications seem to essentially be a ‘Pagan tradition’ 101 introduction to traditions.
Spending time reading from a variety of sources will help you see the diversity of Pagan traditions and how different authors understand those traditions.
So, as has been said before, humans are a part of nature. We an read books on humans that can illustrate their diversity and give us some understanding of the perspective of the authors on their specific topic. With regard to religion and belief, that will often take the form of a broad overview. But as with what normally springs to mind when we think of nature, spending time with other humans, getting to know them, discussing their values and from where they draw inspiration for the expression of those values can be a great way to gain understanding and connection with other humans. Interfaith interaction is a great way to do just that.
As we move forward from Spring Equinox towards Beltane, there is a vibrancy of energy that we observe in nature. We can apply that energy to our interactions with others and perhaps plant fertile seeds of harmony and friendship with people from different faith and belief communities.
Mike Stygal
Belief and Education Officer
Contact Mike here