Where to begin

1. Ask why

People come to Paganism for different reasons: a love of the natural world, an interest in ancient religions, a wish for ritual and seasonal rhythm, or a sense that the religion they grew up with no longer fits. Knowing your reason helps you choose what to read and what to try. It also helps you notice when something is not for you.

2. Read before you practise

Paganism has no single scripture, and quality varies a great deal between books. A good plan is to start with one or two reliable general works and then move to the sources of a particular path.

• Ronald Hutton, The Triumph of the Moon, the standard history of modern Pagan witchcraft.
• Ronald Hutton, The Pagan Religions of the Ancient British Isles, on what is and is not known about the ancient evidence.
• Graham Harvey, Listening People, Speaking Earth, an academic introduction to contemporary Paganism.
• The primary sources for a path you like, listed on each path page.

Read with a questioning mind. Check where a claim comes from, and see the page on judging sources.

3. Start small

You do not need tools, robes or a special room. Many people begin with one of these, repeated for a few weeks:

• A daily greeting. Step outside, note the weather and one living thing, and say a few words.
• A seasonal shelf. A candle and a few things found outdoors, changed with the seasons.
• An offering. Pick up litter, put out water for birds, or pour a little drink on the ground, with thanks.

The general practices on the main page give details for each. Keep a note of what happens in the journal.

4. Learn the year

Most Pagans mark the turning of the year in some way. The Wheel of the Year has eight festivals, and each has its own page with history, customs and a Southern Hemisphere date. Pick the next one and mark it simply. Begin where you are, and let the festivals come to you as they arrive.

5. Look at the paths

Paganism is a family of religions, so it helps to see how they differ. Some, such as Hellenism and Heathenry, work from surviving ancient texts. Others, such as Wicca and Druidry, are modern creations that draw on older ideas. Animism is more a way of seeing the world than a separate religion. Read the pages for the paths that interest you and treat them as an introduction, not a decision. Many people borrow from several and settle into one slowly, or never settle.

6. Find people carefully

Practising with others can be rewarding, and you do not have to do it alone. You also do not have to join anyone. If you want company:

• Look for open events such as seasonal gatherings, moots and pub meets, where you can talk to people in public.
• Go with a friend the first time, and tell someone where you are.
• Take your time. A good group will not rush or pressure you.

The page on finding communities safely has warning signs to watch for.

7. Go slowly

Nothing here needs hurrying. A few months of reading, small practices and noticing the seasons will tell you more than any single book. If you find that Paganism is not for you, that is also a useful result.