What is Dark Paganism?17:36 Dec 26 2007
Times Read: 667
What is Dark Paganism?
by John J. Coughlin (Dark Wyccan)
reprinted with John. J. Coughlin's permission
I am often asked what I mean by "Dark Paganism" and usually have a
different answer depending on the context of the question. In my
book, Out of the Shadows: An Exploration of Dark Paganism and Magick,
instead of defining it directly, I explore the various aspects of
darkness and how it applies to Paganism and even spirituality in
general. I did this intentionally, but the average visitor to
darkpagan.com would probably appreciate a more direct and formal
elaboration.
In contemplating the many forms of Dark Paganism, I can safely say
that it is one (or more likely a combination) of the following
definitions depending on the individual. The idea of Dark Paganism
having personal meaning is very important and will make more sense at
the end of this essay.
1) Dark Paganism is a movement within modern Paganism to reclaim the
dark portion of the light-dark polarity that has been denied or
ignored by those who have confused this polarity with the good-bad
dualism of the Judeo-Christian culture. Darkness is not the same as
evil. This confusion has been caused by the increase in popularity of
Pagan religions, particularly Wicca, and a lack of formal training
and proper initiation. (By initiation I refer to the internal process
that both a solitary or member of a group experiences. ) Without such
an initiation the practitioner remains trapped in the dualistic
mindset of his or her religion of birth and misinterprets the
concepts of polarity and monism found in Paganism. Such reclaiming of
darkness includes the acceptance of our shadow - the (usually)
negative aspects of ourselves we refuse (often unconsciously) to
accept as being an aspect of us. Such Dark Pagans challenge
contemporary thought to ensure that one's beliefs hold true
to themselves and are not simply the result of repression or
conditioning. It is important to be challenged since it allows us to
think and reflect on what we believe and helps strengthen our true
beliefs in the process.
2) Dark Paganism is the incorporation of dark imagery such as gothic
imagery, that tends to have a death-related theme. Such Dark Pagans
are not obsessed with death but rather fascinated by ,and drawn to,
its symbolism. Through dark imagery the individual is made more aware
of themselves and of the sacredness of life as well as the importance
to live life to the fullest while always remaining true to who we
are. Focus is on self exploration and expression.
3) Dark Paganism is the form of Paganism that is attuned with the
internal or "dark" school or approach to spirituality. As explained
in my book, spirituality can be approached in one of two ways:
internally or externally. The internal approach has an emphasis on
the Self. Concepts of deity and ethics are less of a focus or are
based on personal perception and experience. The external approach
works within a set framework. Deity is defined, religious practices
are more structured, and ethics are decreed by an external authority
figure and usually very specific in detailing appropriate behavior.
Both approaches are viable but only the individual can determine
which approach is best for him or her. Some work better in a rigid
and structured approach while others work better in a highly personal
experience. Dark Paganism in this respect, merely delineates those
Pagans who operate within an internal approach from those of an
external approach since there are some inherent
differences in how they operate. A spiritual paths following an
internal approach encourages one to explore those aspects society or
culture may label as taboo so that we can come to our own conclusion.
By doing this, Dark Pagans free themselves of the social conditioning
that often suffocates self expression and individuation as they
strive to become more whole.
All thee of the above definitions help explain what Dark Paganism is
by touching upon the nature of how it is approached. They all tend to
merge into each other. While some Dark Pagans may operate under all
three definitions, others may just fall under one. As with darkness
itself, Dark Paganism cannot easily be defined. This is because
darkness is by nature linked to our unconscious and thus is very
personal. It is the nature of darkness to always remain elusive to
strict delineation. The more one attempts to define it, the further
one gets from it. Like the Tao of Taoist thought, darkness must be
experienced to be understood. It must be embraced and incorporated
into one's being to be appreciated. Attempting to "shine the light of
reason" onto it only removes us from it.
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Dark Wyccan is also an author. Currently, he is on the process of
getting his book published and printed. Please go to Dark Wyccan's
website to find out more about his book, Out of the Shadows: An
Exploration of Dark Paganism and Magick. At this website location you
can find out the status of his book, preview information in the book,
and some personal information about Dark Wyccan. He also has a great
site that has lots of other dark pagan information you might enjoy
checking out. wanningmoon. com
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