Pakanallinen

Pakanallinen is a Finnish adjective that translates to pagan or heathen. It is primarily used to describe beliefs, practices, or individuals associated with non-Abrahamic religions, particularly those predating Christianity in Europe. The term carries a historical and often pejorative connotation, stemming from its use by early Christian chroniclers to describe indigenous spiritual traditions.

In modern usage, "pakanallinen" can be employed neutrally to refer to historical pagan religions such as Norse mythology, Celtic paganism, or ancient Greek and Roman religions. It can also be used to describe contemporary neopagan movements that seek to revive or reinterpret these ancient belief systems. However, the historical baggage of the term means it can sometimes be used with negative implications, implying a lack of religious or moral order according to certain perspectives. The specific context in which "pakanallinen" is used is crucial for understanding its intended meaning, whether it refers to historical practices, academic study, or contemporary spiritual affiliations.