Book Description
Fascism is not a 'modern' era phenomenon nor is it unique. It has been the de-facto organizing principle of mankind for most of history. Paganism is a form of pre-modern fascism. Most religious orthodoxies are of course premised on pagan cults. Modern fascism uses the guise of spirituality in the form of paganism to spiritually justify its assault on civilization. When the two are fused - spiritual paganism with modern fascism - you have a violent and hate-filled philosophy that finds its expression in Hitlerism, Communism and Islam. This book compares these three modern forms of an age old evil that has been the main obstacle to human progress. This book was written after extensive research, travel, interviews and help from others more knowledgeable on certain topics. I don't pretend to be an expert in all the areas of historical political and economic development. Nor am I posing as the expert investigator on any of the chosen themes that populate the work. Thousands of more competent analysts exist in each area. I wrote this book to objectively narrate a common thread and threat in human history, namely that of Fascism and its 'orientalist' genetic composition. It is important in life to impartially record reality, to see the world for what it is and to defend our civilization against utopia's, fantasies and evil. In this regard we need more literature and expositions which make the link between the various ideologies which are in essence pagan cults; their commonality throughout history; and their threat to civilization. It is the threat posed to civilization by immoderate Islam - another type of pagan cult - that prompted the creation of this summary work. Let me explain as well what this book is not. It is not a diatribe against individual Muslims; it is not a declaration of hate against any non-Western people, lands or empires; it is not intended to be the most detailed study of any of the fascist cults past or present; and it is not intended to supplant any of the existing literature on Nazism, Stalinism, or Islam. The book does intend however, to show a common framework amongst the pagan ideologies that have tried to end mankind's development and extinguish liberty. To keep the book short and concise I have chosen to focus on three primary cults, namely; Hitler's Germany, Lenin-Stalinism in Russia, and Islam. I could have discussed other cults and movements but the essential points I want to make can be given by examining these three ideological fascisms. The conclusions formed by such a comparison can be extended to various other criminal ideologies and regimes throughout mankind's history. I hope the book clarifies some ideals, opens some minds and gives some food for thought. You can read the book in its entirety or skip to a chapter that is of more interest. I have tried to keep all the footnotes down to a minimum, though I do source all ideas that are not my own. If you have any questions on sources, content or where my ideas come from then please ask. As for people who constantly harp that criticism is akin to hate speech, do some reading, live in a fascist state and understand what freedom really means. My website is www.craigread.com Craig Read Toronto, Canada [Happy home of a corrupt, paternalistic, over-governed Socialist State.] ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Is fascism a Pagan philosophy?
This is an interesting book.It blames some counterproductive fascist philosophies on Paganism.Since I am a Pagan, I'm a little suspicious of this hypothesis, but I will agree that some Pagans have chosen to ally themselves with fascists in the past century.

Yes, some Pagans did side with the National Socialists during World War Two.After all, European Pagans had, in effect, been outlaws for centuries.In National Socialist Germany, Pagans actually got one of their first breaks in all that time.But those who sided with the National Socialists made a strategic and moral mistake.When Germany lost the war, these folks (as well as, to some extent, Paganism itself) were discredited.

A number of anti-monotheist philosophers wound up supporting the National Socialists in World War Two.Cioran strikes me as an embarrassing example of this.And it leads one to ask just what the connection might be between Paganism and fascism.

The monotheistic religions are the ones that tend to make claims to believe in a deity who rules not just some group or nation but the entire world.And it is natural for some of them to adopt an aggressive stance towards other nations and to insist on converting, ruling, or oppressing the people of those nations.But there are also options for Pagans to act badly in this respect: Pagans tend to worship local Goddesses and Gods and can be very nationalistic.As one who hails Odin, I am well aware of this.In addition, Pagans can support fascist monotheistic nationalists even if they are anything but monotheistic nationalists themselves: I consider Starhawk to be an example of this phenomenon.

In this book, Craig Read takes a somewhat different tack on all this.To him, Paganism is a discredited idea, and many failed or counterproductive social ideas are outgrowths of it: Communism, National Socialism, and so on.And that includes, um, Islamism.To Read, the "inner core" of Islam is "very much a Pagan Arab cult."More precisely, a moon cult.And I can see his point: many dictatorships look like national cults with the leaders being the deities.In these dictatorships, gangs are employed as the political tools for implementing policies.

I understand these arguments, but I think that monotheism is as bad or worse in these respects.Monotheism has often combined nationalism with insistence on aggression against the "non-believers."Monotheism has often emphasized conformity to specific rules.Paganism generally offers far more choices, freedom, and privacy, given the large number of Gods and Goddesses one can follow. I think Read has overlooked the benefits of Paganism and has tended to mischaracterize it.

I Love It
This book is a good read and clearly lays out the common elements between the 3 great ideologies that have tried, and in the case of Islam are still trying to destroy the word. It hangs well together, is logically built up and well researched.It is not too long and is a good intro along with many other works on the Islamic threat.I read this along with Robert Spencer's book on 'the Politically Incorrect Guide to Islam' and recommend both.

I liked This Book
I have longed believe in the same theme that this book presents.Islam is another pagan cult with a leader, a system, a view to dominate the world and a violent history.I don't think anyone can deny what we are facing in the current war against fascism.You might disagree with some of his points and details, but the overall message is right on.

Politically Incorrect But Accurate
The book makes you think about Islam in a totally different way, not the way the media has presented it.The author makes the valid point that while not all Muslims are brainwashed by their religion, there is something inherently wrong with Islam that promotes violence and hate.I read this book in connection with some other books on this topic and it is a valuable resource to understand what is going on right now in the world.

Great Overview Of The Islamic Threat
The book clearly lays out the similarities between the 3 main cults of history: Nazism, Communism and Islam.There is little to distinguish between 3 ideologies when you look at the details.I recommend this.
... Read more

Amazon.com
While it may not be everything you've ever thought to ask about Paganism, this compact guide captures the essence of the Pagan way of life.The experienced Pagan may want to pass on this book, but if you are thinking of taking the first steps on the path, or just want to know more about Paganism, Moorey gives some good ideas for practice and references to more comprehensive sources of information. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Finally, a beginners guide specifically for Pagans!
The sight of this book had me grinning.I'm a self-admitted "Pagan," and find that books on Wicca are aplenty, but books on a more eclectic pagan approach are rare books indeed.Moorey has put together a fantastic little book that is exactly what it claims to be: a beginners guide for those interested in Paganism.

It covers a wide variety of faiths, and does them all justice even though it is quite a small volume.Touching upon Wicca, Witchcraft, Shamanism, the Four Elements, Druidry, Celtic Paganism, Northern Traditions, and even a bit on Feminism and the newer Men's movements, the book is then rounded out with a small section on Cyber-Pagans, to boot (no pun intended)!This is a very rewarding, quick and light read that will supply a small taste of many traditions, encapsulated in a wonderful theme of Paganism.

Earth Religions have rarely been treated this well in reference literature.

Excellent Book for Beginners
The tone of the book was friendly and open.All of the information was accurate and put in a format which read easily and well.The only exception (extremely minor) - in the States a "Hedge Witch" isgenerally referred to as a "Kitchen Witch".Excellent material -a MUST read for all.

An excellent overview of modern paganism.
This thin volume gives an excellent overview of modern paganism.Ms Moorey covers a great deal of information in a personal manner which will be easily understood both by practicing pagans and by those who simply wish to learn more about this growing, but often misunderstood segment of society. Ms Moorey touches on witchcraft, wicca, druidism, shamanism, and Celtic paganism. She identifies the basic beliefs of each traditon, comparing and contrasting the nuances of each without going into unnecessarydetail.Each chapter includes bibliographical references for those who wish to pursue their studies ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

An excellent study.
This volume, smallish but rigorous enough, may for some students be an insightful supplement to the study of Luke's Acts. However, it is interesting in its own merits, as history/ scholarship and as exegesis.
From Klauck's introduction: "[W]e now have the possibility of standing afresh in a situation that was a matter of everyday living for the first Christian generations. At the beginning, the Christian faith had to assert itself among the rival religious views which literally competed with one another on the market-place for the favour of the public."

"Like Philo and Josephus, Luke begins by presenting his material in a form which met the expectations of an educated Greek and Roman public." (p4) Luke, we recall, was a gentile and a scientist (a physician) -- the sciences of the Greco-Roman world being astronomy, mathematics and medicine. It is not surprising that Luke's interests engage the 'marketplace of ideas' in which Christianity grew in spite of resistance on all sides. While his approbation of the apostles is evident, his Acts of the Apostles is essentially documentation, it is no polemic. "The primary intention of the Acts of the Apostles as a book is not missionary, but it does portray missionary history, as an inspiration to the reader." (p121)

Klauck's many interesting considerations include Paul's discourse with the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers in Athens, at the Areopagus, and encounters with practitioners of magic. In the author's summary words: "Acts employs dramatic episodes, verbal discourses, summary descriptions of the state of affairs, and narrative commentaries. . . the result is a broad and vivid picture. In the course of the narrative, we gradually encounter a whole series of . . . magicians, astrologers and exorcists . . . a king who does not distance himself sufficiently from the cult of rulers . . . a seer . . . devotees of polytheistic belief . . . philosophers whose curiosity is more noticeable than their academic training . . . kindly barbarians and some genuinely 'noble' pagans.
"Despite all the criticism of some defective forms, we do not find any heavily aggressive polemic. Instead, there is a subtle irony which occasionally takes the form of brilliant parodies." (p119)

The bibliography lists a wealth of resources essentially for the multi-lingual reader (German, English, French). ... Read more

Book Description
According to a rite borrowed by the Romans from the Etruscans, a pit was dug in the centre of the city, when the latter's foundations were laid, in order to make the Inferi communicate with the upper world. First fruits and other gifts were thrown into the pit, as well as a clod of the earth of the settlers' native country. Thus they restored their broken contact with the Manes of their ancestors. -from "The Nether World"Franz Cumont was one of the preeminent classical scholars of his day, and his investigations into the history of religion had a dramatic impact upon the fields of archaeology, comparative mythology, and anthropology. This 1922 volume collects the influential series of lectures he delivered at Yale University highlighting one aspect of his groundbreaking studies of Roman paganism: the Romans' view of the afterlife.Cumont discusses the Romans' attitudes about the importance of the tomb, the distinctions they made between a "shade" and a "soul," the rules of admittance to Hades and the Elysian Fields, the supernatural journeys of the dead, the ancient roots of the Romans' beliefs and practices, and much more. With solid research behind him, Cumont's reassuring erudition righted inaccuracies about Roman religion that had lingered, particularly in the writings of Christian apologists, and this continues to be a fundamental work of Roman paganism today.Belgian archaeologist and historian FRANZ-VALERY-MARIE CUMONT (1869-1947) wrote numerous books, among them Texts and Illustrated Monuments Relating to the Mysteries of Mithra (1900), considered his masterwork. ... Read more

Book Description

"A half-generation ago the pagans were still largely threatening at the gates of Western culture; now the barbarians are plunging into the... mainstream. As they seek to reverse the inherited intellectual and moral heritage of the Bible,... [we are] engaged as never before in a rival conflict for the mind, the conscience, the will, the spirit, the very selfhood of contemporary man." --Carl F. H. Henry

Book Description
In the early centuries of what came to be called the Christian era, that new religion competed not only with Judaism but also with various traditional Greco-Roman religious beliefs and practices. "Pagan" intellectuals read the emerging Christian scriptures and responded with critiques that provoked lengthy and repeated rejoinders from contemporary Christian leaders. In some cases, these criticisms anticipated perspectives that re-emerged many centuries later in modern scholarship. John Granger Cook offers the first detailed description of the exegesis of five of the most important ancient pagan critics of the New Testament: Celsus, Porphyry, the anonymous pagan reported by Macarius Magnes, Hierocles, and the emperor Julian. ... Read more

Book Description
In the religious systems of ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean, gods and demigods were neither abstract nor distant, but communicated with mankind through signs and active intervention. Men and women were thus eager to interpret, appeal to, and even control the gods and their agents. In Prayer, Magic, and the Stars in the Ancient and Late Antique World, a distinguished array of scholars explores the many ways in which people in the ancient world sought to gain access to-or, in some cases, to bind or escape from-the divine powers of heaven and earth.

Grounded in a variety of disciplines, including Assyriology, Classics, and early Islamic history, the fifteen essays in this volume cover a broad geographic area: Greece, Egypt, Syria-Palestine, Mesopotamia, and Persia. Topics include celestial divination in early Mesopotamia, the civic festivals of classical Athens, and Christian magical papyri from Coptic Egypt. Moving forward to Late Antiquity, we see how Judaism, Christianity, and Islam each incorporated many aspects of ancient Near Eastern and Graeco-Roman religion into their own prayers, rituals, and conceptions. Even if they no longer conceived of the sun, moon, and the stars as eternal or divine, Christians, Jews, and Muslims often continued to study the movements of the heavens as a map on which divine power could be read.

The reader already familiar with studies of ancient religion will find in Prayer, Magic, and the Stars both old friends and new faces. Contributors include Gideon Bohak, Nicola Denzey, Jacco Dieleman, Radcliffe Edmonds, Marvin Meyer, Michael G. Morony, Ian Moyer, Francesca Rochberg, Jonathan Z. Smith, Mark S. Smith, Peter Struck, Michael Swartz, and Kasia Szpakowska.

Published as part of Penn State's Magic in History series, Prayer, Magic, and the Stars appears at a time of renewed interest in divination and occult practices in the ancient world. It will interest a wide audience in the field of comparative religion as well as students of the ancient world and late antiquity. ... Read more

Book Description
This volume of the Zondervan Guide to Cults and Religious Movements discusses Goddess Worship and the impact native religious traditions of Europe and tribal traditions from North America have on Neo-paganism. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

protect your children...from this book !
My Goddess, what utter tripe! I think that Hawkins failed to think about how ancient pagan holidays were converted into the ones that they are known by today by the church (Easter and Christmas, anyone?).

This is just another book released by closed-minded right-wing Christians to try to show that the Goddess and Her children are evil and "satanic" when these religions and ways of life existed BEFORE Christianity.

Typical
This is the typical kind of publication one would expect from right-wing fundamentalist christian publishers like Zondervan. Anytime something threatens the male power-hold of mainstream religion, especially christianity, you see publications of this sort. christianity is a religon cobbled together from all the pagan religions - there is nothing that is unique to christianity.

We can see the results of male-dominated religion in our world today: endless war based on male ego and power grabs, destruction of the environment, denigration of women. Without the guiding and civilizing hand of the Goddess, males have run rampant over the earth, raping it for their own gain.

Accurate, but not Complete
As a polytheist myself, I am wondering if the reviewers who accuse the author of misrepresentation and bigotry have actually read the book.Hawkins presents neopagan theology and practice thoroughly and well, with constant reference to respected primary texts from within the pagan community.He has obviously spent a great deal of time researching neopagan views and, with a few rather minor exceptions, presents them with as much accuracy as any neopagan would.

That said, I was under the impression from reading the description that this book would be mainly concerned with providing Christians with solid logical rebuttals of neopagan arguments, and was very surprised to find that it does not.It is not that Hawkins' arguments against neopaganism are inadequate - they simply aren't there.With two exceptions, Hawkins simply sets factual statements of what neopagans believe against factual statements of what Christians believe or what is asserted in the Bible.(Those two exceptions are the very interesting epistemological critique of neopaganism on pp. 32-34 and the section applying the "problem of evil" to polytheism, panentheism and pantheism on pp. 44-46, which unfortunately ignores the fact that Christianity suffers just as much from this argument as neopaganism, if not more.)Hawkins does not provide an argument for the truth of Scripture, which strikes me as very odd considering that such arguments do exist and his book is essentially useless as a witnessing tool without one.His Biblically-based arguments cannot function on their own without some other argument establishing the Bible as a reliable source.

That said, the information Hawkins presents on neopagan and Christian beliefs is generally quite accurate, and this book would certainly be a useful supplement for Christians who already have a grasp of some arguments for the reliability of the Bible.I can find little fault with the section at the end describing approaches to take when talking to neopagans about Christianity, and I would generally make the same recommendations myself.Neopagans would do well to read the epistemological critique I mentioned above (pp. 32-34), since responding to these objections would go a long way towards clarifying neopagan ideas of truth, belief and justification.

Generally, I can think of much worse treatments of neopagan religions in the literature of Christian apologetics and I would be pleased to learn that a Christian friend was reading this one.

In Response to the Celtic "Witch Witch" and others...
For starters this book was published by a Christian publishing company (Zondervan) and is really for the most part intended for Christians to use to compare Christianity to neopaganism. Since Hawkins and Gomes come from a Christian worldview it makes sense that they don't spent time defending the "validity" of the Christian faith since that is not their intent. The implication that the Christian faith is indeed the "true" faith is something that is "implied" in the text since, once again it was published by Christians for Christians. This is not to say that the book doesn't have value as an "apologetic/evangelism" tool, because it does and is intended for that as well, but from the point of view of the Christian using it not necessarily the neopagan picking it up and reading it.

The thing that Celtic Witch and the other "negative" reviewers have to get over is that Christianity makes an "absolute truth" claim. Christians make that claim, because Christ made the claim about himself in John 14:6. We don't believe that neopaganism is a path to God in whatever shape/form/etc. that people take him/her to be. Another big problem that Christians have with neopaganism is in its use of magick, which is condemned in the Bible. Any kind of occultic worldview whether it be New Age, Satanism, Wiccan, etc. butts heads against Christianity, because of the "truth claims" they make which contradict what Christianity teaches.
Celtic Witch and the group most likely are not going to agree with the "truth claims" of Christianity, but they have to understand that we don't agree with the claims of their neopaganistic beliefs either. I am not a relativist nor do I believe that relativism is really a tenable belief. Therefore I don't believe in this "every path leads to God" nonsense that many people promote. Everyone has a worldview (even if that worldview is that they don't believe in worldviews). How we understand whether one worldview is true over and against another deals with issues of coherence and correspondence to reality and the like. Although this is not the place to discuss this in its entirety I would guide people to Geisler's "Christian Apologetics" book on more information concerning coherence and correspondence. Beware neopagan you won't like what you read!

Goddess Worship, Witchcraft and Neo-Paganism
This is the most misinformed intolerant religious right wing propaganda I have ever read.The author obviously took many assumptions about paganism and stereotyped the entire group.His arguments against it hold as little logic as he claims the pagan community uses in their own beliefs.I would strongly recommend not purchasing this book of intolerance and social hatred. ... Read more

Product Description
Is your child about to embrace pagan spirituality? Casual occultism permeates
Youth culture. The why s, where s and how s are covered with tips
for discerning families. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Parents: Act on this information now before it's too late.

This very easy to read book reminded me that lots of parents already know, down deep, that they should be paying more attention to the insidious tsunami of occult, witchcraft, sorcery and paganism-driven temptations flooding children's minds. Yet parents don't act for fear of risking overkill, or of losing another discipline battle. Instead, they cross their fingers hoping "it's just a passing fad they'll grow out of." Far from harmless, this nationwide infestation is soul and life-destroying. It comes not just from movies, TV, radio, books, hand-helds, computer games, etc., but also from inside what should be the safe harbor of the church.

But, the good news is that Not My Child deftly exposes the new paganism while giving parents the resolve and the tools to act decisively. The bad news is that this entrenched, demonic invasion from spiritual hell has progressed with such intensity that some parents may find they've already waited too long. Chapter 4 alone will stun even the dreamiest optimist.

Although written by a dedicated Christian, this diagnosis and repair manual ought to have automatic broad appeal. After all, why wouldn't even an atheist left-liberal find ready agreement with a religious-right fundamentalist in an emergency of this seriousness? No parent of any political or religious persuasion wants to wake up one day to find a child overcome by hyperactivity, panic attacks, an eating disorder, suicidal tendencies, depression, the need to self-mutilate, substance abuse, a gender identity crisis, tendencies to violent crime, bizarre piercings, early sexual experimentation, pregnancies, abortions, rage against authority and more. The author takes pains to demonstrate the connections between these disease symptoms and corresponding, addictive youth incursions into the occult whether promoted directly or smuggled in by side-door cultural osmosis.

Linda Harvey's awareness of Bible warnings and her shock-insuring exposé gives parents the symptom recognition, treatment tools and inspiration they need to confront the problem before it's too late. Consider this book a high tech "nonsense detector" for both you and your child. Study it and save your child a future of torment and dysfunction. I'm buying a dozen copies to pass out.

Teen Paganism, Consequences, and Guidance for Parents


The very core of our country's strong Christian heritage is being undermined as the media, the entertainment industry, liberal educators, and politicians are laying the foundations to attract children and teens to accept the tenets of New Spirituality and a Pagan lifestyle. Linda Harvey in her new book "Not my child" answers the questions of how, why, and where these connections are being made with our kids.

The book is well organized with a natural progression beginning with the deceit, distraction and dissention of pagan influences which are desensitizing and manipulating impressionable youth who lack ability to exercise discernment. These outside influences are leaving our children with twisted thinking and confusion as to values. An emphasis on tolerance is misleading and actually creates a spirit of dissention as students who take a Christian stand are ridiculed and ostracized.

Linda warns of the spiritual assault permeating our culture. She shows how teens are being exposed to casual occultism, mysticism and witchcraft and of the dangerous consequences of this attack on our youth. She alerts concerned parents to be on aware of both the subtle and blatant deception prevalent in recent legislation regarding self determination for minors in matters of heath care and children's rights.

I appreciated the information dealing with content of contemporary textbooks and curriculum being introduced at both elementary and high school levels in our public and parochial schools.The documentation, end notes, references, and helpful websites provided in the bibliography are available resource for every Christian parent to use to advantage.

... Read more

Product Description
Hellenismos is the ancient Greek religion reborn. Do you hear the call of the old Gods? This book is a thorough introduction to Hellenic Polytheistic Reconstructionism. Written by Timothy Jay Alexander, owner of the popular Pagan website Mind-N-Magick.com, "Hellenismos Today" is an exceptional guide to the character and diversity of the modern religious beliefs and practices of Hellenismos. For experienced Hellenic Reconstructionists, this is an excellent tool to introduce friends and family to your beliefs and practices. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

A wonderful read
The first thing the author does is make clear to the reader that the book is about a modern day religious practice and not a history lesson. I found this to be very important due to the fact that many people mistakingly believe that modern day Hellenics worship in exactly the same way as the ancients did. In Hellenismos Today Mr. Alexander makes clear that while the beliefs are based upon an ancient religion it still recognizes modern day ways and adjusts its practices accordingly.Another thing i found quite refreshing is Mr. Alexander's acknowledgment that while he's intent is not to bash another religion he will not whitewash facts about that religion.

I very much enjoyed reading the list of the 'Maxims of Delphi' which are basically the 'rules' of the hellenic belief system. The only downside i found to it was the part where the author states that the only ethic he believes to be outdated is the one which states "Rule your wife" the author states that in modern society "Rule your spouse" is more accurate. Now while I quite agree with this there is another rule which states 'Educate your sons' I believe it would have been good for the author to state that in modern day times 'educate your children' would be more appropriate.

In the chapter Magic vs. Mystical, Mr. Alexander touches on some of the core differences between the two and why magic is not generally practiced among most hellenics and that while the use of it is fine in religions that allow it, it is not so within Hellenism. I also belive that this cahpter holds one of the best lines in the book "If you believe like a Hellenic Reconstructionist but act like a Wiccan, you will be smacked down for it."

Overall I found Hellenismos Today to be thus far one fo the best introductory books to Hellenic Polytheism I've had the pleasure of reading. I belive the author writes in such a way to allow even those with a very limited knowledge of ancient Greece and the Greek Gods to better understand and appreciate what is truly a very beautiful and empowering religion. I'd recommend that anyone wanting to learn more about about Hellenic beliefs add this book to their personal library.

A light and easy introduction to Hellenic Reconstructionism
First impressions: The book is chock full of original sources. Of 133 pages, 58 pages are Mr. Alexander's own work. The rest is a list of the Delphic Maxims (four pages long), excerpts from Hesiod's Works and Days and Theogony, and Julian's Oration to the Sun.

These appendices are a good feature, if you ask me. I like the fact that Mr. Alexander put so much of the original works at the hands of a novice.

On to the book itself.

Chapter 1 has a good discussion of the roots of Neopagan-Recon tensions, such as the taking of deities out of their cultural and historical contexts, soft polytheism v. hard polytheism, the impious and disrespectful "use" of deities, esp. via magick, and the questionable historical claims by many neopagans. I especially like his use of the term Fakelore to describe the latter. He briefly discusses emanationism, the ultimate unity of which the Gods are thought by some to partake in.

I especially like this passage: "I have to be clear here, Reconstructionist religions are not the ancient religions themselves. They are modern religions based on ancient cultures and their spiritual practices." (Page 15)

Some of the slight differences between Mr. Alexander and myself arise from the fact that he focuses on the public cultus, or popular religion, rather than the more philosophical approach of the intellectual elites, which I personally tend to follow. Considering the apparent high demand for the works of the sophists, and the philosophers, and the known dramatic performance of the dialogs in public places, I think the average person would have more exposure to these ideas than he gives credit. It is also known that people would seek out philosophers for advice, much as many today would turn to their priest, so they had some sort of unofficial status. This is, however, a quibble as I admit, and a characteristic of the Classical and Hellenistic era.

Chapter 2: He emphasizes the lack of a founder as compared to the revealed religions. He briefly discusses the Minoans. Since they are often held up as a matriarchal goddess-based society, it would be nice if he had helped dispell that bit of fakelore with more than just a brief mention that this idea has been discredited. However, this is a pet peeve of mine, since I am really interested in the Bronze Age religion of the Greeks.

He gives a nice, if a bit spare history of Greece civilization and religion.

"Hellenic Reconstructionism allows for a great deal of diversity in beliefs and practice because of the very nature of ancient Greece." (pg. 19).

I also like how he describes each city state as practicing what could be considered a separate denomination or religion from each other. He really emphasizes the local nature of ancient Greek religion, pan-Hellenic festivals and institutions aside.

I would disagree with his use of the term cult to refer to a practice or belief outside the mainstream. The word cult, simply means worship, and to pay cult is to offer worship. Hence the use of terms like Cult image. While a beginner may not be aware of this, since one will encounter the term much in one's research, it would be a wise thing to make this definition clear to the reader.

I enjoy how he is trying to be fair and balanced with regards to all the approaches to Hellenic reconstructionism, especially by emphasizing the diversity of practice. His focus on personal devotions in this chapter is also a good one, as for now, this is the primary form of devotion available to us until there is a sufficient increase in numbers to provide for congregations.

Chapter 3: I find this chapter a little weak, as he gives little information on the Gods, though I agree people should take a deeper research approach to the Gods. However, I think he takes too literally the idea that everyone has some idea of the Gods from our education in mythology. This is true, however, one advantage OSNT has over HT is that Mr. Campbell provided hard to find epithets, divine animals and plants, and suggestions for devotional activities which would be very useful for the beginner in ritual and prayer. These are details most people would not find in most treatments of mythology.

Mr. Alexander then repeats a discussion of hard v. soft polytheism, and gives another quick rundown on the one and the many.

"One must not succumb to contemporary thinking having the Greek Gods locked into an archetypal typecast. While the Gods may have their primary governances, they are complex beings with concerns that cover a multitude of venues." (p. 23)

This is a vital point, and I'm glad he makes it. This is, however, something a beginner might not notice from studying most discussions of mythology and the Gods, which tends to collapse everything about a God to one type or archetype.

His use of Aphrodite to illustrate this is done brilliantly, IMHO, and I really found the examples useful. The example would be very helpful to a beginner. Its too bad that something similar could not be done for all the Gods.

Chapter 4. Cosmology is treated in this chapter. He gives a good discussion of Emanationism, very suitable for a layman. I especially like the fractal analogy, which is very appropriate, and one which I had not thought of before. I also like how he emphasizes that the universe came about and operates through natural causes and is scientifically understandable. The Greeks invented science as we know it, and were the first scientific cosmologists.

Chapter 5: Ethics is handled in this chapter, and I think this is the strong poit of the book. The very first paragraph goes over the various sources of ethics for our faith, and gives good clues to a beginner where to look. I also really enjoy this passage:

"The Maxims are more focused on how one should behave rather than limiting or condemning individual personal behavior." (p. 29).

This is a good summary of how our ethical code differs from some others, which are more about what not to do, than what to do.

He then analyzes three particular Maxims:
HONOR THE GODS, GIVE BACK WHAT YOU HAVE RECEIVED, NOTHING TO EXCESS

The analysis of these as the roots and summation of piety, reciprocity and meodration is very well handled. While the discussion of this in detail could easily be an essay for each maxim, a simple summary as that which is presented is fully appropriate for an introductory text. I also enjoy again further discussions of the diversity of our community, especially in terms of politics and regions. We are not monolithic, and I think that is a strength.

Chapter 6 is about clergy. Mr. Alexander focuses on a very localist form of priesthood, especially focused on the family. I have come to conclude that for the foreseeable future, we should focus on domestic religion, centered on the family, and at most a few friends. Later as we grow, and congregations begin to form, more formal priesthoods will be needed. He and I agree that there can be, and should be various types of priesthoods, much as in the ancient world there were hiereuses and their assistants, all of whom had sacerdotal functions. I also think that as we moderns often have an expectation that clergy should have a teaching and pastoral function, teaching and counselor priests or ministers may be required inthe future. Mr. Alexander downplays this, though he does not reject the need or utility of professional priests, and it could be that we disagree on this point.

We do agree on the need for legal ordination, in order that the priests may perform certain public ceremonies. (The only one that I can think of that is vital, is marriage, and he does bring up cases where this is not as necessary).

"Families intrinsically had the right to perform welcomings, weddings, funerals, and other rituals without having to go through intermediaries. Providing ordination credentials on request returns these rights back to individuals and their families as they should be." (p. 40).

I agree wholeheartedly with that sentiment. He mentions the ULC, and I have considered myself, getting ordination through them to have the legal standing to perform certain functions perhaps, at some time in the future.

Chapter 7 deals with rituals. It is a nice little chapter, which emphasizes how each family or locality may vary in its uses. He includes also a sample prayer to Aphrodite, and the basic steps of a ritual. One area that I find OSNT to be a bit better at is the more detailed ritual instructions which can really help jumpstart the beginner. However, since Mr. Alexander emphasizes the familial domestic religion, which can have its own rituals, I can understand the scarcity of detail here.

(I think Mr. Alexander, who is likely reading this, may find my post on Domestic Religion a few days ago of interest).

Chapter 8 deals with holidays. He gives the months of Athens (with a very simplified correspondence to the Gregorian calendar), with the key rituals of each month, and also the major festivals. When I first skimmed the book, I had felt this was a weak chapter. However, I don't think so on my second, more detailed examination). A nice touch is a mention of the possible honoring of the local spirits, something we often over look today.

Chapter 9 deals with divination. He gives some basic background, but not a whole lot of information for the beginner to work with here. This could have been fleshed out some more. For someone coming from a Neopagan perspective, this would not be too bad, since they are usually fairly aware of divinatory tools. However, for the non-Neopagan beginner, they may have no knowledge of any divinatory devices or techniques, and making a few suggestions may have been in order.

Chapter 10 deals with magic and mysticism. Mr. Alexander tells me in conversation that this is the most controversial chapter, and I can see why. I will cut straight to the chase:

"Any form of magic performed where the practitioner believes that they are wielding power in and of themselves would be hubris. Any form of magic where the practitioner believes that they are commanding or are in control of the Gods will be seen as impious." (pp 59-60).

Right there, he will alienate some of our community who are wedded to magick, and to some possible Neopagan converts. I agree, any magick that compels the Gods is hubris and impious.

He however, assumes that these are the only two options. The Hellenistic era magicians believed that they were using a form of technology...manipulating occult influences, properties and connections (correspondences) to attain changes. This is not power in and of themselves, but an outside source of power. In principle this is no more hubris, than our making of tools using scientific correspondences, connections and properties.

I would caution however, that magic was in and of itself frowned upon even if not illegal (and usually the following types of magic were illegal), especially as much of it was aimed at cursing people, compelling love, and other unsavory and unethical ends. Any known magician would have, shall we say, a negative reputation. Apuleius was charged with magic, and had to defend himself in court.

Mr. Alexander also leaves out Theurgy which is a form of magic aiming at mystical ends, to unite with The One or the Gods. This crosses the line between mysticism, which he has little problem with apparently, and magic, which he dislikes. However, theurgy was practiced only by Neoplatonists, and only some of them. Plotinus and Porphyry condemn the practice, for instance. There is also the problem that little information on authentic ancient Theurgy survives for us to reconstruct.

For me, while I am interested in theurgy, this discussion is not such a big deal, as magic plays a minor role in my faith, which is almost entirely devotional anyway, and I rarely do any theurgical work at all. However to those who are interested in magic, this condemnation of their practices would be seen as a major attack. I must emphasize however, that the Hellenic Reconstructionist community is strongly divided on the matter of magic, and Mr. Alexander's view is shared by a fairly good portion of our community, and so I have little objection to his objections to magic.

To sum up, I found the book rather useful, if a bit short on meaty substance that could be useful to the beginner seeking a quick foundation for practice. I have little problem recommending the book to others despite this, and may well give it to my mother to read. I hope that in a future edition, some more of the sort of basics I mention in here will be added to the book, improving its utility. I think some of this could have been included in the first edition, especially considering that this edition has only 58 pages of work. Surely a few more pages of divine epithets, and a more detailed sample ritual could have been added to the manuscript.

My Review
I have been interested in paganism for many years and for a long time thought Wicca was all there was but I was never able to connect with it. A friend recommended this book to me and it really hit home. Thanks to this book I have found Hellenismos and I think the path that is right for me.

Excellent Read
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.It starts by identifying Hellenismos as a Reconstructionist religion, which it is.There are some in the Hellenic community that would take umbrage with that, but this should not at all be controversial.Personally, I feel it is an accurate use of the term, as other authors before Mr. Alexander have the same definition, notably, Drew Campbell, author of Old Stones, New Temples.

Upon perusing the Table of Contents, I was impressed with how much information Mr. Alexander was able to provide, especially for an Introductory Guide (his term).The Gods and Goddesses section is just as it should be, a general run through of the Olympians and Daemons.I believe it should be up to the practictioner of Hellenismos to learn more, as does Mr. Alexander.I am impressed that he stresses learning about the gods in their totality, and not allowing oneself to be duped into worshipping an archetype or popular perception.I also was impressed with the clear and precise way the author was able to discuss soft and hard polytheism in a way that makes it easily understandable to the reader.Syncretism and electicism are also terms that are easily confused, even among experienced pagans, and I was glad to see that Mr. Alexander was able to show that these are not terms that can be used interchangeably.

The Cosmology section did not go into great detail, and honestly, I am glad.As an Introductory Guide, anything too in depth would only confuse.Suffice it to say that what Mr. Alexander stated is the truth; that no matter what philosophical idea one subscribes to, "the universe exists naturally and functions in a scientifically explainable way."

Mr. Alexander delves into another sticky area of Hellenismos; magick.The battle rages between Hellenes as to whether magick is an acceptable practice within the religion.Mr. Alexander draws his line in the sand and explains the differences (in his opinion) of magick and mysticism.Whether you agree with him or not, it is a well presented argument.

What is particurlarly important, at least in my mind, is the role of clergy within Hellenismos.I believe there is a need differentiate it from the popular perception of clergy (Christianity).The author is clearly knowledgeable regarding this subject, and in my opinion, it is the best chapter in this book.

I appreciated the Suggested Reading List, as I suspect that many who read Hellenismos today will want to continue their study of Hellenic Polytheism.

I applaud the efforts of Mr. Alexander to write a book on a very misunderstood religion.While it is true that most people that find their way to Hellenismos are academic and intellectually oriented, he recognizes that spirituality is valid within the religion and has it's place as well.

I am sure that there are many who will not agree with Mr. Alexander's opinions.For me personally, I found myself nodding in agreement with most, if not all of what he had to say. Thankfully, this book has not whitewashed the beliefs and practices of Hellenic Polytheism to make it palatable to the masses. I highly recommend this book to those who are just starting to learn about Hellenismos, and to those who are drawn to the Greek Pantheon, regardless of path.
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Book Description
With most of the Christian world honoring Sunday as their day of worship, the question of its origin becomes important.

Over the past hundred years much has been written about the use of the week among ancient pagan peoples. However, little has been done to compile such historical material into an easily accessible book for the general public.

Robert Leo Odom for years has conducted special research on the Sabbath-Sunday question. In "Sunday in Roman Paganism," he leads readers through the pages of history showing the rise of the planetary week and its "day of the Sun" in the heathenism of the Roman world during the early centuries of the Christian era.

This book is not a capsulated history of Sunday as a church festival, but rather the history of the planetary week as it was known and used in the pagan world, and to show whether or not its "day of the Sun" was then regarded by pagans as being sacred to their Sun-god. ... Read more

Book Description
This accessible case-study of Northern European shamanistic practice, or seidr, explores the way in which the ancient Norse belief systems evoked in the Icelandic Sagas and Eddas have been rediscovered and reinvented by groups in Europe and North America. Drawing on ethnography, religious studies, anthropology and sociology, the book examines the phenomenon of altered consciousness and the interactions of seid-workers or shamanic practitioners with their spirit worlds in historical and political contexts.

Written by a follower of seidr, this study not only investigates, but also addresses those new communities involved in a postmodern quest for spiritual meaning. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Intensely Scholarly
Blain does an excellent job of examining the shamanic aspects of Seid.She does seem to come off as mildly apologetic that an academic would be involved in such inquiries.This is most apparent in the intensity with which she qualifies and defines the various concepts addressed in _Nine_Worlds_.

As the subtitle indicates, _Nine_Worlds_ focuses on the shamanic aspect of the Old Germanic Religion.It does so from a distinctly Asatru perspective.I've said many times that the 'Trar can be a bit too serious at times, and Blain is no exception.But in this case, the earnestness can be endearing.One comes away from _Nine_Worlds_ with a great deal of respect, and a bit of compassion, for Blain's intense attitude.

_Nine_Worlds_ is a survey of Seid shamanic practice, and in no way a how-to manual.That being said, it is a must-read for anyone interested in European Shamanism.

Outstanding scholarly work
Ms. Blain does an excellent job of studying seidr not only from a practical stance but a historical and philosophical one as well.She mixes scholarship and historical theory with stories of personal experience and accounts of modern-day practice.It does only cover one way of practicing seidr though, that being the Hrafnar style oracular seidr of Diana Paxson's group.As limited as the scope is however it is still an excellent work.

A good introductory exploration
This was an interesting read...The author explores her own participation in a subculture as well as explaining the historal aspects of the subculture. She does a fairly good job explaining some of the historical roots, and to some degree the present activities of the subculture. She could've touched on the contemporary subculture more though.

A lot of her analysis seemed focused on how she reconciled the differences between herself as a heathen and as an academic. This was particularly interesting, but what stood out to me was that she could never entirely just submit to an experience but was constantly analyzing it...so that for her it seemed the identity of an academic was predominant over that of a heathen. It does lead one to ask whether she really critically engaged the experience in and of itself or used the academic way of thinking as a distancing tool. Nonetheless she does question her own attitudes and this is evident in her work.

The best book on Seidhr to date
So far, this is the only book I've come across that truly presents all sides of the arguments surrounding this ancient practice.Jenny Blain manages to avoid the arrogance so many people in the Norse Heathen community present when discussing the subject, and maintain a neutral position, even while admitting that she practices seidhr (in some form) herself.This is not an instructional book, but an examination of different viewpoints, and as such it is invaluable to anyone interested in the subject.Those who are upset that she doesn't support their opinions more clearly have missed the point of the book.

Not About Seidhr
I must admit disappointment with this book.I bought this book out of hope, and have been left disillusioned at the future of seidhr if individuals like Blain are at the reins.She admits to being "both a researcher and a practitioner" yet offers no proof of either point.In fact, the author at every turn refuses to define seidhr at all.Even openly admitting that it is her point to "avoid(s) definition" (page 146).Why then, I must ask, write a book on "Seid-Magic" that is not about seidhr at all?

It seems the author's only contact with seidhr in any meaningful capacity is through Hrafnar, which is Diana Paxons' group in California.This self-proclaimed "religious community", who practices and teaches "oracular seidhr" is squarely based in Umbanda voodoo (ref: Blain's book, page 66; and further acknowledged at the Hrafnar website).As to how this constitutes seidhr is beyond this reviewer's comprehension.

What the reader will find here is a great deal of nothing regarding the rich mythology of esoteric heathenry and how it applies today.Seemingly to taunt the reader further, Blain references the imput of Saami shamans without any substance to how their influence may relate to modern-day seidhr workers.Nor is she able to adequately explain ergi in anyway that has not already been said to redundancy.Finally, while citing several Sagas, she never examines them indepth, missing an opportunity to lend her alleged research and practice any credence.The only value found in this book is the bibliography.
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Customer Reviews (1)

Amazing Prognastication in '87 of reality in "03
I read this after it first was published in 1987.I just recently relooked it over and am amazed at the accuracy of the direction Linsell believed the church was going.And lo, the church is there.

He recalls from historical analysis how the church since the Englightment on has been taking on the values and shape of the culture, and how this is influencing American Christianity away from its God breathed (inspired) values and the will of God for His church.

His prediction that all the major denominations have given way to pluralism is totally right on!The quote which should sting us back into reality: "These churches are doing nothing of a serious nature to purify their bodies and return themselves to the orthodoxy that prevailed at the time of their founding."

My own church, the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, is evidence of this move away from orthodoxy and its founding. Those in charge now proclaim with great pride that they have led the body away from its out-of-date moorings into the future which they have contended God will bless with growth. But to date this has not happened.

Amazing work to reread and contemplate.Also see books by David Wells. ... Read more