Paganization is a word that refers to the process of becoming pagan or adopting pagan beliefs. The word is pronounced /peɪɡənəˈzeɪʃən/, with stress on the second syllable. The "g" in the word is pronounced as a "hard g," which makes the "a" in the following syllable short. The "z" is pronounced as a "z" sound, while the "e" following the "z" is pronounced short, like in "pet." The "a" in the last syllable is pronounced long, like in "pay."
Paganization refers to the process or act of adopting or incorporating pagan beliefs, practices, or customs into a religious system, culture, or society. It involves the assimilation or infusion of pagan elements, rituals, or traditions into an existing religious or cultural framework.
The term is derived from the word "pagan," which typically refers to a person who follows a polytheistic or non-Abrahamic religious tradition, often associated with ancient or indigenous cultures. Paganization occurs when elements of paganism are introduced into a different religious context, either intentionally or unintentionally, resulting in a blending or syncretism of beliefs.
The concept of paganization can be observed in various historical and cultural contexts. For instance, during the spread of Christianity across Europe, many practices and symbols from pre-Christian traditions were incorporated into Christian rituals and celebrations, effectively paganizing certain aspects of the faith. Similarly, in some post-colonial settings, indigenous belief systems have faced paganization as they have been influenced or overshadowed by the dominant religious and cultural traditions of the colonizers.
Paganization can also occur within secular contexts, as pagan elements are adopted or presented in non-religious or non-traditional settings. It can involve the revival of ancient pagan practices, the celebration of nature-based spirituality, or the exploration of alternative forms of worship.
Overall, paganization describes the process of integrating pagan beliefs, practices, or customs into a different religious, cultural, or secular framework, resulting in the emergence of syncretic or hybridized forms of belief and expression.
The word "paganization" is derived from the base word "paganize" along with the suffix "-ation".
"Paganize" comes from the noun "pagan", which originated from the Latin "paganus", meaning "a country dweller" or "rustic". In ancient Rome, the term "paganus" gradually came to refer to individuals who practiced the traditional polytheistic religions rather than converting to Christianity.
The suffix "-ation" in English is often used to form nouns indicating a process, action, or state. So, when "pagan" is combined with "-ation", it creates the noun "paganization", which refers to the process or act of making something or someone resemble or adopt pagan beliefs, practices, or customs.