I consider myself a Nihilist, but I enjoy the study of religion and the insight it offers into the human condition. Does Paganism necessarily require faith? What I mean is that when I study a religion like Christianity faith is considered the most important part of the religion and seems to supersede every other aspect of the tradition. Because of this Christians have written voluminously about faith, acquiring faith, maintaining faith, etc. As such, I have the feeling that if I went to a Baptist church and told them I have no faith at all I would be ostracized. Even if I told them I want to attend their church because I believe in the teachings of Jesus, the insight to be gained by study of the Bible, and appreciate the sense of community offered by group worship, I get the impression that I would not be fully accepted and may even face social hostility. So what about Paganism? What would happen if I tried to join a Pagan worship group and stated openly to the members that I have no faith, but would like to be part of the group because I believe in the ethics of Paganism, the insight, and enjoy communal worship? I have read several books about Paganism and Wicca, but I have never seen much written by or about Pagans/Paganism in regards to faith. I have a deep respect for anybody who does not try to force their views on others. However, most religions, even those that have no agenda to gain adherents, like to make information about their beliefs available to those that may benefit from them. So I wonder, why does all Pagan information I have been able to access remain silent on the matter of faith? The sources I have found give all sorts of useful knowledge to those who have already gained faith in the tradition, but never address how one gains such a faith. I would think that this would be important information to make available to those who may benefit from the Pagan religion. Sorry this is such a long post, just trying to make my question clear. Please note that this is in no way meant as a criticism of Paganism. I try to treat all religions with respect and find Paganism easier to respect than some others.
Faith in anything is earned, not just accepted blindly. And every religion/belief has faith. Baptist to pagan.
It really depends on the pagan, what "paganism" you speak of, and what they are doing. Example, some Asatruar do not even believe in the gods as literal beings, and some do. Traditionally, it was faith that if you gave your best, that the fields would grow again, and if you kept your word, then your luck force would wax, and that if you lived up to your patron gods expectations, then you might be blessed with his hospitality in the afterlife. I say traditionally, faith is very important. Many modern "pagans" do not need faith because they have a novelty religion...not a working, traditional worldview.
