pagaani

Pagaani is a Finnish-language term that has historically been used to refer to individuals who practice indigenous European religions, particularly those that predate the spread of Christianity. The word itself is derived from the Latin "paganus," meaning "country dweller" or "rustic," and was initially used by early Christians to describe non-Christian populations.

Historically, "pagaani" encompassed a wide range of beliefs and practices across various European cultures, including Norse paganism, Slavic paganism, and Celtic paganism, among others. These traditions often involved reverence for nature, a pantheon of gods and goddesses, ancestor veneration, and cyclical understandings of time and life. Rituals and festivals were typically tied to agricultural cycles and significant natural events.

In modern times, the term "pagaani" has been reclaimed by some individuals and groups who identify with contemporary forms of these ancient European spiritual paths. This revival, often referred to as Neo-Paganism, seeks to reconstruct and adapt ancestral traditions for the present day. While some modern pagans focus on specific historical traditions, others draw inspiration from a broader spectrum of indigenous European spirituality. The practices and beliefs within modern paganism are diverse and can vary significantly between individuals and groups.