How Can I Be in Multiple Religions and Worship Gods from Different Cultures?

For modern pagans and heathens, the flexibility to choose and practice eclectic traditions means you can merge various beliefs into a unique path. This article explores the concept of eclecticism within spirituality, its benefits, and the potential challenges it offers. We discover that the ability to worship multiple gods from different cultures is not only permitted but also embraced by various religious frameworks.

Pagan and Heathen Ways of Eclecticism

The term we use in modern pagan and heathen circles for this practice is 'eclectic.' It allows individuals to create a personal practice by combining elements from several traditions, a concept that aligns well with the ancient belief of local practices. Unlike some traditions that require purity and authority figures, pagan and heathen paths are grounded in local adaptation. By taking this approach, each person essentially becomes their own spiritual authority, tailored to their unique beliefs and practices.

Some argue that eclectics may end up broad but not deep. Indeed, actions have consequences, and over time, an eclectic practitioner may focus on certain deities while others fade from their practice. My journey, for instance, started with an Asatru focus on the Aesir. Gradually, I became drawn to other deities like Athena and Ganesha, leading me to a more eclectic path. I remain light on the Greek and Hindu material, but this reflects my individual journey and choice.

Historical and Cultural Perspectives on Polytheism

The idea of worshiping multiple gods from different cultures has roots in ancient history. The Romans, for instance, were known for maintaining multiple altars, recognizing the value of diverse religious practices. Similarly, in Japan, it is not uncommon for an individual to blend Shinto and Buddhism, embodying the concept of syncretism.

One of the key aspects of the polytheistic worldview is the recognition that other gods exist. While it might seem that gods like Jupiter and Zeus are the same with different names, this is often not the case. Other deities such as Mithras, Persian Adonis, Levantine Cybele and Attis, Anatolian Isis, Egyptian Epona, and Celtic deities found favor in the Roman Empire, illustrating the acceptance of diverse religious entities.

Jesus Christ's Teachings on Love and Religious Freedom

While religions differ, the core message of love and compassion is universal. According to Jesus Christ, spiritual growth and perfection lie in loving others, good and bad, and reflecting the divine perfection within oneself. His teachings encapsulate the essence of unity, regardless of religious affiliations.

Several key points from Jesus' teachings are highlighted in the Bible, specifically in Matthew 5:43-48:

1. Universality of God's Love: God loves all people equally, reflecting their Karma. As stated in Luke 6:38, "For to all who have, more shall be given, and they will have an abundance; but from those who have nothing, even what they have shall be taken away." 2. Love Beyond Borders: If one loves only family and friends, they fall prey to sin and demonization (John 6:70). The true path of perfection involves loving all, not just those within one’s immediate circle. 3. Personal Transformation: By reflecting the divine perfection, one can achieve a state of faultlessness. Just as a clean mirror reflects truth, a heart free of ego can mirror God's perfection.

Jesus' message can be summed up in the Indian term Shivam, which signifies the very essence of harmony and perfection. This holistic approach to spirituality highlights the importance of integrating love, acceptance, and unity, reflecting the true essence of religion.

Religion as a Bond

Religion, often derived from the Latin religare meaning to 'reunite,' serves as a bridge that connects individuals to each other, to the divine, and to the natural world. By embracing this concept, one can foster a sense of harmony and belonging, transcending the barriers that different religions and cultures might create.

In conclusion, the ability to be in multiple religions and worship gods from different cultures is a testament to the diversity and adaptability of human spirituality. It is not only allowed but also enriched by the eclectic approach. Whether one pursues a path of deep immersion in a single tradition or a broader, more inclusive practice, the journey is individual and personal, as it should be.