With the exception of Jews and Muslims, who were classified as infidels by the Church, pagan refers to any non-monotheistic faith, devotee of that faith, or someone who opposes Christianity.
Pagan comes from the Latin root word pagus, which meaning "rural," "country," or "rustic."
Some explain the term by implying that only hicks clung to superstitious beliefs, while sophisticated urbanites embraced Christianity, but this is incorrect:
- Paganus was a derogatory term used by Roman soldiers to refer to civilians, non-combatants, or "stay-at-homes."
Early Christians adopted this slang to refer to those who were not enlisted in the army dedicated to Christ, as they imagined themselves as Soldiers of the Holy Cross engaged in sacred battle.
- By the fourth century, the term "pagan" had come to apply to anybody who worshipped local spirits or deities.
- Pagan was not a term used by ancient people. They went by whatever name was appropriate for their particular culture, clan, or group.
Because of their opposition to Christianity, Christians labeled others as Pagans:
- Pagans recognized what you aren't, not necessarily what you are.
- Pagans are now sometimes proudly labeled by modern spiritual followers.
- In this context, the term "pagan" refers to non-Christian or non-monotheistic religious traditions, such as Wicca.
- Paganism is the origin and precursor to the contemporary reconstructionist faith and eclectic belief system that is Neo Paganism.
You may also want to read more about Paganism here.
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