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Paganism: Pagan holidays, beliefs, gods and goddesses, symbols, rituals, practices, and much more! An Introductory Guide
What is paganism? Is it an heretical faith that stands in opposition to Christianity? It is devil worship? The answer is no times three. “Paganism” does not refer to a single religion, but to a collection of earth-centric polytheistic philosophies that harken back to belief structures that pre-date Christianity.Pagans of all types believe that there are many paths to reach a harmonious relationship with deity. No single one is more valid than another. Since pagans do not see the world as locked in a cosmic struggle between good and evil, they do not recognize the Christian concept of Satan nor do they worship him.The notion of “pagan” as “heretic” is only valid when seen through the lens of Christianity. In her latest book, author Riley Starr offers a gentle introduction to the world of earth religions aimed at the beginner.Using Wicca, Druidry, and Odinism as exemplars, Starr explains what it means to function both as a pagan within a group and as a sole practitioner. With suggestions for starting a ritualistic life and for adopting the use of protective symbols, Starr opens the door for new followers of paganism to take the first steps in their own journey and encourages them to embrace a lifelong study of the deities and symbols that speak exclusively to them.Pagan holidays, beliefs, gods and goddesses, symbols, rituals, practices, and much more!
113 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 16, 2015
374 people are currently reading
308 people want to read
About the author
Riley Star
19 books6 followersRiley Star is a solitary practitioner of the Wiccan religion and employee of a metaphysical bookstore.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
September 2, 2017
This is an introduction for someone that has nowhere else to start. If you want a quick lay of the land. Right off the bat I appreciated the author's eloquence. But this is a Wikipedia article in book form at best. And at worst it is a reassurance to mom that the author isn't evil and going to Hell.
But soon I came upon the 4 Myths of paganism, which are all quite mistaken. Reading the rest of it, I assume the author is aware of the Left Hand Path, histories of dark gods/goddesses, hexing, and more. Such statements of these were outright incorrect. As wonderful as her introduction was, there are portions (such as the so-called myths, that is to say, 'falsehoods or lies' and not myths as in ancient stories along universal themes) that seem to be written to appease a nervous christian mother worried about what her child is up to. Many pagan authors will have these sections in their books. We spend so much of our energy in appeasing christians around us that we don't have orgies, don't hex people, don't worship the devil, and are really nice people. When in truth, I will ruin you with a heart of glee, whether by axe or bullet, if you fuck with me. I'll have a wild orgy on a beach, having sex with whomever I wish, and more.
She starts out with the idea that all paths are valid, to give love and respect to the Christian path, as it too is a manifestation of deity. Yet later says "pagans do not recognize the Christian concept of Satan, nor do they worship him." This is incoherent with her opening remarks. As someone professed to be deeply influenced by Campbell, and others, a more scholarly look at the dark would be helpful. But, again, this seems written more to appear a nervous christian mother than an exploration of deity.
Later on she writes about some core beliefs of paganism.The hidden knowledge part that we all have? That's straight up Plato. Not all pagans believe this. See the "what is evil" section header. This section needs a lot more work. The existence of evil needs better definition and there are many differing 'pagan' philosophies about what this even means. Just pick ancient Roman alone and you'll come across differing ideas. Now add Teutonic, Celtic, Persian, just above the equator... Even more if you go south, and the discussion about what is 'good' or 'bad' becomes quite complicated. The author follows the convention of saying there is not good/evil split, but there is 'good' and 'bad' (putting it in quotes) as if to say that we know what these mean. That the 'gut' is given such high regard is at odds with the very notion that we 'know' what is good or bad. That is if you've read your Plato and understand the primacy of reason in deciphering this. This was not a book of philosophy at all and the sections on ethics were quite weak.
And don't get me started with the idea of "The Rede" being one of the highest ethical codes. You simply must be joking, or you've never tried your hand at understanding ethics and morality.
On symbols. "This [pentacle] has nothing to do with Satanic worship and is not a symbol of the devil." Please pick up a Motley Crue album. (joke). Or pick up any Satanic literature. The pentagram is used everywhere. It IS a symbol of the devil. But lets not talk about that and instead just outright deny it. I have a tattoo of Sowilo on my arm. Take two of these and cross them together and you have a swastika. Everyone knows these symbols as those of the Nazis. There are many who say they are NOT, but are ancient symbols. True, they are, but symbols are not static. They have meaning because we put meaning into them. Sowilo is, like it or not, also a symbol for the SS in Nazis, as well as an ancient rune. Ignoring something doesn't make it go away. It grows in power. Instead you'll see many in the Ásatrú community directly facing the white supremist/nazi connections head on. When someone confuses my tattoo for a Nazi one, I see it as an opportunity for education and not denial.
The connection with the Triquatra and The Morrigan is a stretch.
Celtic knots. Not much is given as to why the Celts loved knots. Could've gone a lot deeper here to give the worldview of the Celts. Such a fundamental understanding goes deeper, on why boundaries with shores are important, why a misty night holds possibility, crossing from one season to another, the wheel of the stars above, reincarnation, and more. More so than listing Oak and Holly as important.
This book is, again, written for someone who has no idea where to begin, is probably stepping out of a Christian worldview and wanting to step into a 'pagan' (non Christian) one, but is worried about going to Hell and perhaps that Satan is behind it all and is leading one astray. That's who this book is for. It isn't for the person looking for a mature exploration of the depths of beliefs in any of the examples (Wicca, Druid, Odinist), in nuanced understanding of ethics, or the like.
I don't mean to come across as mean spirited. Overall the book was clear. But yet again we have an "introduction" book that lists names and associations, dates for holidays, and an underlying theme throughout that we are not evil, that we recognize all of Deity (just not the scary parts or offensive parts, we'll deny that) and no depth. Our pagan bookshelves are bursting with introductory books. Our community is suffering because of it. We are more than "attuning with nature", whatever that means (go outside and get a 'forest bath' and feel good). If our worldview truly IS different than the fundamental one of Christians, then let's skip the intro and get to the bones. The holidays are not the point. They are the flowers on the vine.
But soon I came upon the 4 Myths of paganism, which are all quite mistaken. Reading the rest of it, I assume the author is aware of the Left Hand Path, histories of dark gods/goddesses, hexing, and more. Such statements of these were outright incorrect. As wonderful as her introduction was, there are portions (such as the so-called myths, that is to say, 'falsehoods or lies' and not myths as in ancient stories along universal themes) that seem to be written to appease a nervous christian mother worried about what her child is up to. Many pagan authors will have these sections in their books. We spend so much of our energy in appeasing christians around us that we don't have orgies, don't hex people, don't worship the devil, and are really nice people. When in truth, I will ruin you with a heart of glee, whether by axe or bullet, if you fuck with me. I'll have a wild orgy on a beach, having sex with whomever I wish, and more.
She starts out with the idea that all paths are valid, to give love and respect to the Christian path, as it too is a manifestation of deity. Yet later says "pagans do not recognize the Christian concept of Satan, nor do they worship him." This is incoherent with her opening remarks. As someone professed to be deeply influenced by Campbell, and others, a more scholarly look at the dark would be helpful. But, again, this seems written more to appear a nervous christian mother than an exploration of deity.
Later on she writes about some core beliefs of paganism.The hidden knowledge part that we all have? That's straight up Plato. Not all pagans believe this. See the "what is evil" section header. This section needs a lot more work. The existence of evil needs better definition and there are many differing 'pagan' philosophies about what this even means. Just pick ancient Roman alone and you'll come across differing ideas. Now add Teutonic, Celtic, Persian, just above the equator... Even more if you go south, and the discussion about what is 'good' or 'bad' becomes quite complicated. The author follows the convention of saying there is not good/evil split, but there is 'good' and 'bad' (putting it in quotes) as if to say that we know what these mean. That the 'gut' is given such high regard is at odds with the very notion that we 'know' what is good or bad. That is if you've read your Plato and understand the primacy of reason in deciphering this. This was not a book of philosophy at all and the sections on ethics were quite weak.
And don't get me started with the idea of "The Rede" being one of the highest ethical codes. You simply must be joking, or you've never tried your hand at understanding ethics and morality.
On symbols. "This [pentacle] has nothing to do with Satanic worship and is not a symbol of the devil." Please pick up a Motley Crue album. (joke). Or pick up any Satanic literature. The pentagram is used everywhere. It IS a symbol of the devil. But lets not talk about that and instead just outright deny it. I have a tattoo of Sowilo on my arm. Take two of these and cross them together and you have a swastika. Everyone knows these symbols as those of the Nazis. There are many who say they are NOT, but are ancient symbols. True, they are, but symbols are not static. They have meaning because we put meaning into them. Sowilo is, like it or not, also a symbol for the SS in Nazis, as well as an ancient rune. Ignoring something doesn't make it go away. It grows in power. Instead you'll see many in the Ásatrú community directly facing the white supremist/nazi connections head on. When someone confuses my tattoo for a Nazi one, I see it as an opportunity for education and not denial.
The connection with the Triquatra and The Morrigan is a stretch.
Celtic knots. Not much is given as to why the Celts loved knots. Could've gone a lot deeper here to give the worldview of the Celts. Such a fundamental understanding goes deeper, on why boundaries with shores are important, why a misty night holds possibility, crossing from one season to another, the wheel of the stars above, reincarnation, and more. More so than listing Oak and Holly as important.
This book is, again, written for someone who has no idea where to begin, is probably stepping out of a Christian worldview and wanting to step into a 'pagan' (non Christian) one, but is worried about going to Hell and perhaps that Satan is behind it all and is leading one astray. That's who this book is for. It isn't for the person looking for a mature exploration of the depths of beliefs in any of the examples (Wicca, Druid, Odinist), in nuanced understanding of ethics, or the like.
I don't mean to come across as mean spirited. Overall the book was clear. But yet again we have an "introduction" book that lists names and associations, dates for holidays, and an underlying theme throughout that we are not evil, that we recognize all of Deity (just not the scary parts or offensive parts, we'll deny that) and no depth. Our pagan bookshelves are bursting with introductory books. Our community is suffering because of it. We are more than "attuning with nature", whatever that means (go outside and get a 'forest bath' and feel good). If our worldview truly IS different than the fundamental one of Christians, then let's skip the intro and get to the bones. The holidays are not the point. They are the flowers on the vine.
December 20, 2016
Oh man. Where to begin. Well I could begin with despite me actually finishing this book I am still rating this 1 star. I should have stopped but I wanted to see what kind of train wreck this book was going to be.
First, Paganism gets defined as any religion that is not Christianity. Sorry Semites and Muslims according to this book you're pagan.
Second, there were so many generalized statements made about what pagans believe that this book makes us all sound like we're different flavors of Wicca with different pantheons.
Really this book should have just been titled something like Wicca: an Introductory Guide.
The one good thing that surprised me about this book was the decent recommended reading list. But even that was disappointing if you were looking for a variety of different pagan books because a good majority of them were on Wicca.
First, Paganism gets defined as any religion that is not Christianity. Sorry Semites and Muslims according to this book you're pagan.
Second, there were so many generalized statements made about what pagans believe that this book makes us all sound like we're different flavors of Wicca with different pantheons.
Really this book should have just been titled something like Wicca: an Introductory Guide.
The one good thing that surprised me about this book was the decent recommended reading list. But even that was disappointing if you were looking for a variety of different pagan books because a good majority of them were on Wicca.
November 22, 2023
This author has a complex about Christianity that really needs a bit of self-reflection.
At every turn, you'll find paganism defined as 'anything that isn't Christianity' which I think will come as a big shock to at least a few other major world religions. Whenever possible, the author will use a difference between Christianity and Wicca (because this is a book about Wiccan beliefs above all else) to make it clear how superior the latter is. They frame everything around how it isn't Christianity.
Then they say Martin Luther had pagan ideals. Actual. Direct. Quote. If you were raised even church-adjacent (for example, I attended a Lutheran school most of my childhood) you've probably got an idea of how absolutely unhinged some of this book's takes are just from that. You'll hear a lot about persecution from Christians, about superiority to Christians, about similarities with Christianity. It really feels like the focus here, which seems a bit unhealthy given the author's clear vitriol.
Now, I'm no Christian myself, but I wonder what kind of help this might actually be doing. A lot of pagan books do this, though to a lesser extent generally. Honestly it felt a little bit like someone really wanted to be Silver RavenWolf without expending too much effort.
The book also could've used an editor, which we all know isn't gonna happen in most self-pub. Still, the author could've at least done some proofreading. There are a lot of misused words (then vs than, etc.) and a particular ceremony where a typo instructs you to invite spirits to cause harm. Literally. They forgot the 'no' in the sentence. Probably something you might wanna think about watching for in the future.
If you want a fluffy bunny intro to one person's brand of eclectic Wicca....well, I would still look elsewhere.
This book just ain't it.
At every turn, you'll find paganism defined as 'anything that isn't Christianity' which I think will come as a big shock to at least a few other major world religions. Whenever possible, the author will use a difference between Christianity and Wicca (because this is a book about Wiccan beliefs above all else) to make it clear how superior the latter is. They frame everything around how it isn't Christianity.
Then they say Martin Luther had pagan ideals. Actual. Direct. Quote. If you were raised even church-adjacent (for example, I attended a Lutheran school most of my childhood) you've probably got an idea of how absolutely unhinged some of this book's takes are just from that. You'll hear a lot about persecution from Christians, about superiority to Christians, about similarities with Christianity. It really feels like the focus here, which seems a bit unhealthy given the author's clear vitriol.
Now, I'm no Christian myself, but I wonder what kind of help this might actually be doing. A lot of pagan books do this, though to a lesser extent generally. Honestly it felt a little bit like someone really wanted to be Silver RavenWolf without expending too much effort.
The book also could've used an editor, which we all know isn't gonna happen in most self-pub. Still, the author could've at least done some proofreading. There are a lot of misused words (then vs than, etc.) and a particular ceremony where a typo instructs you to invite spirits to cause harm. Literally. They forgot the 'no' in the sentence. Probably something you might wanna think about watching for in the future.
If you want a fluffy bunny intro to one person's brand of eclectic Wicca....well, I would still look elsewhere.
This book just ain't it.
March 19, 2018
Pagaism.
This was a simple introduction to the Pagan branches of religion(pun intended). It left me with many questions & a desire to read other books on the topic. It helped to start to steer me in a direction and that was all it was intended for. My thanks to its author.
This was a simple introduction to the Pagan branches of religion(pun intended). It left me with many questions & a desire to read other books on the topic. It helped to start to steer me in a direction and that was all it was intended for. My thanks to its author.
August 6, 2022
Good introduction to the subject
As a new student to this topic, this was a good, readable, informative book. It contained all of the basics and I am now ready to move onto a more detailed book.
As a new student to this topic, this was a good, readable, informative book. It contained all of the basics and I am now ready to move onto a more detailed book.
March 5, 2023
The book's title and blurb tell you exactly what you're getting - a beginner's guide to Paganism. For me, it was a little too basic. Having said that, it does a very good job of conveying the essence and appeal of Paganism, and it includes useful lists of books and online resources.
November 26, 2017
Less "Paganism For Beginners" or "Paganism For Dummies" than "Paganism For People With ADHD," but some useful information.
January 27, 2025
Riley Star’s Paganism is an excellent introduction to the rich and diverse world of pagan beliefs and practices. Whether you’re brand new to the path or looking to brush up on the basics, this book offers a comprehensive overview that is both informative and accessible.
One of the standout features of this guide is its structure. Star organizes the information in a way that’s easy to follow, covering key topics like pagan holidays, gods and goddesses, symbols, and rituals. The descriptions are concise yet packed with useful details, making it perfect for beginners who might feel overwhelmed by the vastness of pagan traditions.
The section on pagan holidays, including the Wheel of the Year, was particularly engaging. Star provides clear explanations of each sabbat, their significance, and how they can be celebrated in modern times. I also appreciated how the book highlights the diversity within paganism, touching on different traditions and practices without trying to oversimplify or generalize.
For me, the real strength of this book lies in its ability to inspire. While it’s packed with facts and history, it also encourages readers to personalize their practice and explore what resonates with them. Star’s writing style is warm and inviting, making this a guide that feels like it was written by someone who genuinely wants to help others connect with the beauty of pagan spirituality.
Overall, Paganism is a fantastic starting point for anyone curious about the path. It’s informative, inspiring, and well-organized—a true gem for anyone beginning their journey or seeking a refresher on the fundamentals. Highly recommended!
One of the standout features of this guide is its structure. Star organizes the information in a way that’s easy to follow, covering key topics like pagan holidays, gods and goddesses, symbols, and rituals. The descriptions are concise yet packed with useful details, making it perfect for beginners who might feel overwhelmed by the vastness of pagan traditions.
The section on pagan holidays, including the Wheel of the Year, was particularly engaging. Star provides clear explanations of each sabbat, their significance, and how they can be celebrated in modern times. I also appreciated how the book highlights the diversity within paganism, touching on different traditions and practices without trying to oversimplify or generalize.
For me, the real strength of this book lies in its ability to inspire. While it’s packed with facts and history, it also encourages readers to personalize their practice and explore what resonates with them. Star’s writing style is warm and inviting, making this a guide that feels like it was written by someone who genuinely wants to help others connect with the beauty of pagan spirituality.
Overall, Paganism is a fantastic starting point for anyone curious about the path. It’s informative, inspiring, and well-organized—a true gem for anyone beginning their journey or seeking a refresher on the fundamentals. Highly recommended!
October 24, 2022
Paganism for any path
Not going to lie, at first I thought I was going to dislike this book because of the "all" statements, but then I fell in love. There's not a lot of all or none in the craft. After the first couple of pages it relaxed for me and I felt more welcome. Anyway, I am actually going to purchase a copy for my daughter as her first book in her magical journey.
Not going to lie, at first I thought I was going to dislike this book because of the "all" statements, but then I fell in love. There's not a lot of all or none in the craft. After the first couple of pages it relaxed for me and I felt more welcome. Anyway, I am actually going to purchase a copy for my daughter as her first book in her magical journey.
May 21, 2023
This wasn’t as organized and in depth as I’d hoped! I was looking for an informative book on the various pagan paths. This one seemed wiccan specific and also talked about Christianity a lot. I did gain some interesting insights, although this does feel like a book that is in its first drafts and needs to be edited a bit more.
August 2, 2017
I was a little iffy, but I am pleased that I took the time to read it.
I'm not a practicing pagan but I wanted some information and this book did a good job especially regarding Wicca.
I'm not a practicing pagan but I wanted some information and this book did a good job especially regarding Wicca.
March 29, 2020
Good Introductory book to get a grasp of what some pagan religions are about.
Although the author seems to be struggling in her faith (preaches that Wiccan do not judge others but then keep hammering on Christianity) she manages to convey some of the key values of her religion.
Although the author seems to be struggling in her faith (preaches that Wiccan do not judge others but then keep hammering on Christianity) she manages to convey some of the key values of her religion.
February 10, 2021
Decent for beginners
This book explains a lot of the basics for a noob like myself. It did, however leave me with quite a few questions that I will have to find elsewhere. I suppose that's maybe the point of a book for beginners.
This book explains a lot of the basics for a noob like myself. It did, however leave me with quite a few questions that I will have to find elsewhere. I suppose that's maybe the point of a book for beginners.
March 7, 2021
Good basics. Didn't like the incorporation of smudging and word usage for sage without going into detail that we do not smudge, we cleanse. Smudging is a closed practice for the indigenous and white sage is also not to be used unless grown by yourself or given to you by indigenous people (iirc).
June 3, 2021
I found portions of the book to be quite informative, however a lot of the information presented seemed to be quite biased. Decent for a first read but I would focus more on the suggested reading list in the back of the book.
October 31, 2021
Quite short, but good introduction to paganism - lots of pointers to go and explore further. Written by a practising pagan who clearly has a deep connection to Mother Earth, and who stresses the importance of 'do no harm' in all aspects of life. A great reminder to live in gentleness ;)
August 16, 2017
Interesting
Very interesting and informative on a subject I've been reading for a while. I recommend anyone searching to read this book
Very interesting and informative on a subject I've been reading for a while. I recommend anyone searching to read this book
December 24, 2017
Introduction
This is a great basic overview. I would see it helpful for anyone curious; either embarking on a new path or wanting basic understanding/knowledge.
This is a great basic overview. I would see it helpful for anyone curious; either embarking on a new path or wanting basic understanding/knowledge.
February 13, 2020
Good informational books
Loved the information in this book. I took so many notes from it and really took a lot towards my own personal journey in spirituality.
Loved the information in this book. I took so many notes from it and really took a lot towards my own personal journey in spirituality.
April 13, 2020
Interesting read,
Very interesting book, informative and helpful. Would happily recommend to others.
A good book very well written, please read it
Very interesting book, informative and helpful. Would happily recommend to others.
A good book very well written, please read it
June 3, 2020
Feels like it took more time to create the title and cover image than the actual content of the book.
January 22, 2021
Very informative
Good read with loads of informatuon and personal connection stories. Good primer for anyone seeking a path. Must read it
Good read with loads of informatuon and personal connection stories. Good primer for anyone seeking a path. Must read it
April 4, 2021
Brilliant insightful book! Was just what I was looking for
June 10, 2021
I very much enjoyed reading this and learning about the basics of a much misunderstood subject.
Thank you so much, Riley, for sharing your wisdom.
Thank you so much, Riley, for sharing your wisdom.
March 5, 2022
Good info
Good information for people interested in practice of just wanting to learn about it for themselves interested of what is portrayed in Hollywood.
Good information for people interested in practice of just wanting to learn about it for themselves interested of what is portrayed in Hollywood.
August 12, 2022
Nice introduction to paganism without any bashing of other religions outside of historical context.
September 23, 2022
interesting
A straightforward guide with information on paganism and Wiccan and Druidry with useful information for beginners. It was easy to read.
A straightforward guide with information on paganism and Wiccan and Druidry with useful information for beginners. It was easy to read.
September 19, 2023
Informative Introduction
A straightforward simple introduction, covering all aspects of paganism, the history to the current day in a clear and concise manner.
A straightforward simple introduction, covering all aspects of paganism, the history to the current day in a clear and concise manner.
March 29, 2024
Very good book to get you acquainted with paganism
November 11, 2024
Very informative
This was very well written and very informative. I'm just learning about paganism and this was a great break down.
This was very well written and very informative. I'm just learning about paganism and this was a great break down.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews